Uploaded March 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
In this session, Dr. Erman Ilicak, founder and President Emeritus of Rönesans Holding, one of the world’s leading engineering and construction firms, will share the lessons learned while contradicting with the rest of the construction industry. Dr. Ilicak, started with a microscale civil engineering and contracting company at the age of 26 during the days when small companies hardly survive and the big ones get even bigger, less efficient and more hostile. He was always lucky in finding similar minded individuals which he calls “The Members of the Losers Club” with whom they developed the “Renaissance Way” which was considered foolish and mostly ignored or disregarded by the establishment for almost two decades. Over the years, Rönesans grew into a $5B business, spanning more than 30 countries and ranking one of the top 100 international contractors of the world (ENR lists) consistently for the last 13 years. Reflecting on this journey, Dr. Ilicak, will share the strategies behind the Underdogs and Renaissance Way and will try to encourage students to forge their own paths.
Columbia Engineering is proud to host the Tech CEO Lecture Series, a unique opportunity that invites you into the inner circles of innovation. This is not just another lecture – it's an exclusive encounter with the minds driving today's most groundbreaking technology companies. You will experience engaging talks that unravel the mysteries of the latest industry developments, shedding light on novel strategies redefining the landscape. You will gain insights into the profound societal impacts these leaders are orchestrating, all while catching an enticing glimpse into the captivating universe of science and technology. In a world where the future unfolds before our eyes, this is your opportunity to stay ahead of the curve. Don't miss out on this exhilarating journey – secure your spot now to learn how you can be a part of that journey.
In this session, Dr. Erman Ilicak, founder and President Emeritus of Rönesans Holding, one of the world’s leading engineering and construction firms, will share the lessons learned while contradicting with the rest of the construction industry. Dr. Ilicak, started with a microscale civil engineering and contracting company at the age of 26 during the days when small companies hardly survive and the big ones get even bigger, less efficient and more hostile. He was always lucky in finding similar minded individuals which he calls “The Members of the Losers Club” with whom they developed the “Renaissance Way” which was considered foolish and mostly ignored or disregarded by the establishment for almost two decades. Over the years, Rönesans grew into a $5B business, spanning more than 30 countries and ranking one of the top 100 international contractors of the world (ENR lists) consistently for the last 13 years. Reflecting on this journey, Dr. Ilicak, will share the strategies behind the Underdogs and Renaissance Way and will try to encourage students to forge their own paths.
Columbia Engineering is proud to host the Tech CEO Lecture Series, a unique opportunity that invites you into the inner circles of innovation. This is not just another lecture – it's an exclusive encounter with the minds driving today's most groundbreaking technology companies. You will experience engaging talks that unravel the mysteries of the latest industry developments, shedding light on novel strategies redefining the landscape. You will gain insights into the profound societal impacts these leaders are orchestrating, all while catching an enticing glimpse into the captivating universe of science and technology. In a world where the future unfolds before our eyes, this is your opportunity to stay ahead of the curve. Don't miss out on this exhilarating journey – secure your spot now to learn how you can be a part of that journey.
