When Professor Chad Miller talks about his career in technology, he often starts with a memory from when he was just 13 years old.
“I remember teaching BASIC on a Timex Sinclair Z80 computer to a room full of eight- and nine-year-olds,” he says. “It was chaotic, fun, and challenging all at once. That experience taught me early on that technology is more than just machines. It’s about people, problem-solving, and helping others see what’s possible.”
That curiosity, combined with a desire to teach and empower others, would shape the next three decades of his life.
After earning a double major in Integrated Science and Mathematics at Northwestern University, Professor Miller stepped directly into a Systems Analyst role at Eli Lilly and Company. There, he designed and developed a data-driven, client/server tool to support FDA submissions.
“It wasn’t just about coding or databases,” he explains. “It was about building something that could actually make a difference for people. That sense of impact has guided every decision I’ve made since.”
The Ohio native’s career path has been anything but linear, but it’s all connected by a single thread: using technology to solve complex problems while empowering others to grow alongside him. After six years at Eli Lilly, he and his family moved to Evansville, Indiana, where he helped Shoe Carnival navigate a challenging technical transition.
“We were fixing systems, building networks, and training staff – all while keeping the business running day-to-day. It was stressful, but incredibly rewarding,” he recalls.
From there, he transitioned into consulting at C/Soft, architecting networking and system integrations for multiple clients, before taking on staff positions in Butler IT, and later taking IT leadership roles at Butler University and MJ Insurance. At MJ Insurance, Professor Miller served as Chief Information Officer, overseeing enterprise-wide technology strategy, managing an eight-person team, and guiding a $1 million budget.
He led a complete overhaul of IT infrastructure, orchestrated two full building migrations, managed a pandemic transition to remote work, and led his team to build the company’s first data warehouse to serve as a single source of truth.
“People often think IT is just about computers,” he says. “But really, it’s about trust, collaboration, and enabling others to do their best work. That’s what I focused on – transforming IT from a cost center to a strategic partner.”
Professor Miller has also maintained a strong and enduring connection to Butler University throughout his career. From serving as Senior Director of Technology Development to multiple adjunct and faculty roles, he has contributed to the campus community in a variety of ways.
“I’ve always felt a part of Butler,” he says. “Whether it was supporting systems, mentoring students, or teaching, Butler has been a place where curiosity, collaboration, and people matter. It feels like home, and that sense of belonging drives everything I do here.”
Now a Lecturer in Business Technology and Analytics at the Lacy School of Business, he brings this perspective into the classroom, helping students connect the technical aspects of IT with real-world business strategy.
“I want students to see how technology intersects with business outcomes,” he explains. “It’s not enough to know how to build a system – you have to understand why, how it impacts people, and how it creates value.”
He draws on decades of experience in enterprise architecture, data governance, and organizational strategy to provide students with real-world context. His teaching philosophy mirrors his approach to leadership: thoughtful, supportive, and future-focused. He always tells students that mistakes aren’t failures – they’re opportunities to learn and pivot.
“The best leaders are the ones who can guide teams through uncertainty while still moving forward,” he says.
Professor Miller’s commitment to mentorship extends beyond the classroom. As an Executive Career Mentor, he advises students, alumni, and executives, helping them navigate career transitions and develop leadership skills.
“Even after 32 years in IT, I’m energized by innovation and learning,” he says. “Technology changes every day, but problem-solving, collaboration, and mentorship – those are timeless skills.”
His story is a reminder that technology careers are not just about code, networks, or systems; they’re about curiosity, perseverance, and people. From teaching BASIC in a small basement to shaping enterprise-wide IT strategy, and now inspiring the next generation of business leaders, Professor Miller has spent a lifetime building systems and developing leaders.
“At the end of the day,” he says, “I hope students remember that it’s not just what you know – it’s how you use it to help others succeed.”
