RIT Croatia’s Program Advisory Boards: Bridging class & career
At RIT Croatia, education is not designed in a vacuum. To ensure academic programs remain closely aligned with the rapidly evolving needs of the global and local markets, each program of study relies on its own Program Advisory Board (PAB). Comprised of alumni and industry leaders serving renewable two-year terms, these boards act as vital bridges between academic theory and real-world industry demands.
Through bi-annual meetings, strategic discussions, and continuous engagement, these distinguished professionals help shape curricula, foster innovation, and open career pathways for students.
Driving agile curricula: Web and Mobile Computing and New Media Design
For technology-focused programs, staying ahead of the curve is a constant race. Dr. Alan Mutka, Department Chair of the Web and Mobile Computing Department (overseeing Web and Mobile Computing and Cybersecurity programs), notes that the advisory board provides a critical feedback loop.
"In our meetings, we present the current status of the program, proposed changes, co-op feedback, and future directions," says Dr. Mutka. "Board members then share what they see in their companies, thus helping confirm the need to keep strong foundations in software development while expanding toward areas like AI, cybersecurity, and cloud."
Dr. Mutka shares a concrete example: board members suggested exposing students to robotics because AI is entering physical systems, which prompted the department to introduce a new robotics-related elective.
Similarly, Dr. Ante Poljičak, Department Chair of the New Media Design Department, relies on his board’s diverse makeup—ranging from global giants like Google to freelancers—to anticipate trends. Though their board is relatively new, they have established a proactive rhythm.
"The Advisory Board passes recommendations to the Department Committee, which sets an action plan for implementing them. It is meant to be a full loop rather than a one-way suggestion box," Poljičak explains.
Currently, the NMD department is acting on the board's recommendation to deeply integrate AI across courses.
Nurturing relationships and continuous dialogue
For Dr. Kristina Šorić, Department Chair of the Business Department (overseeing Global Business Management and Hospitality and Tourism Management programs), the true value of the boards lies in moving beyond formal, twice-a-year meetings.
"Meaningful collaboration cannot be limited to two formal meetings per year," Dr. Šorić emphasizes. "I have started reaching out to Advisory Board members individually and inviting them to one-on-one meetings... Personal interaction can create additional enthusiasm, trust, and commitment."
She also highlights the dual role of board members who serve as adjunct faculty, noting that their classroom involvement helps extend industry connections to a broader group of students.
Translating Board expertise into student careers
While department chairs focus on academic design, Aleksandra Gečević, Career Services and Alumni Relations Coordinator, translates the board's industry power into tangible student opportunities.
"Our Program Advisory Board members play an active role in connecting students with industry opportunities," Aleksandra says.
Since many board members are RIT Croatia alumni, they directly participate in the Alumni Student Mentorship Program, working one-on-one with students.
She highlights how these industry leaders bridge the gap between graduation and the workforce through experiential learning, hackathons, and case studies. Furthermore, board member companies are actively prioritized during the annual Career Education Days.
"Rather than simply acknowledging the gap between academia and the workforce, in collaboration with the industry, we build the bridge," Aleksandra concludes.
