With a career spanning the Air Force, private sector, and academia, Ken Nidiffer brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to helping students navigate the ever-evolving field of software engineering. For over 30 years, he has been an adjunct professor at George Mason University, where he has taught in the Department of Computer Science. During his tenue he has taught thousands of graduate students the art and science of successfully managing software-enabled systems.
From his early days as a chemical engineering student at Purdue University and earning his doctorate degree at George Washington University, to his current role, Nidiffer's career is marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a deep commitment to teaching. After graduating, Nidiffer joined the United States Air Force, where he served for 24 years, rising to the rank of colonel. During his military career, he pursued advanced studies in astronautics and software engineering, working on classified missions and advanced satellite systems. He went on to hold various leadership positions in the private sector at companies such as Northrop Grumman and Fidelity Investments.
Nidiffer’s teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of understanding both the technical and business aspects of engineering.
"My view of engineering is that its purpose is to really create good for people," Nidiffer said. "We build systems, and we build services to make life better."
Nidiffer's contributions to George Mason University are profound. He has continually updated his courses to include the latest technologies, such as generative AI, ensuring that his students are well-prepared for the rapidly evolving industry. He is currently a contributing author to the Software Engineering Body of Knowledge (Version 4). He also helps students navigate their career paths and find opportunities that align with their strengths.
"I try to mentor my students in terms of jobs and career," he said. "You can't teach effectively unless you believe in the student first."
Nidiffer advises aspiring software engineering leaders to identify their strengths and seek companies where those strengths align with the organization’s mission, vision and goals. Highlighting the importance of self-awareness, Nidiffer suggests tools such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and What Color Is Your Parachute? to help individuals discover their aptitudes and passions.
He emphasizes the importance of networking and suggests maintaining an up-to-date resume and broadcast letter outlining skills and aspirations to increase visibility to potential employers. He advocates for lifelong learning and staying updated with industry trends. Nidiffer stresses the need to adapt to industry demands, suggesting alignment with company missions, studying competitors, and continuously updating skills. Finally, he underlines the significance of balancing technical and interpersonal skills, advocating for an understanding of diverse personalities in collaborative environments.
In a world where technology is constantly changing, Nidiffer's career serves as a reminder of the importance of lifelong learning and the impact that passionate educators can have on their students. His career is a story of dedication, adaptability, and a love for teaching that continues to shape the future of software engineering at George Mason University.