cbuzz: Aravind Chandrasekaran, OSU Fisher College of Business, Experiential-Driven Learning, Responsible AI, and Leadership

What does the future of business education actually look like—and how do we prepare leaders for it?
In this episode of cbuzz, the Columbus Chamber’s podcast, we sit down with Aravind Chandrasekaran, Interim Dean at the Ohio State University Fisher College of Business, to explore how experiential-driven learning, responsible AI, and leadership development are shaping the next generation of business talent.
Fisher is taking a hands-on approach to education—connecting students directly to real-world business challenges, integrating AI in ways that are both innovative and responsible, and redefining what leadership looks like in a rapidly evolving economy.
This conversation offers a closer look at how education and business are aligning to build a workforce that is not only prepared—but adaptable, thoughtful, and ready to lead.
For employers, founders, and decision-makers, this isn’t just about education—it’s about the future of talent in the Columbus Region and beyond.
Aravind Chandrasekaran, Interim Dean | OSU Fisher College of Business
Aravind Chandrasekaran (AC) was named interim dean of Ohio State Fisher College of Business in June 2025, bringing more than 15 years of experience as an operations management expert and academic leader at the college. He holds the John Berry Sr. Chair in Business.
Prior to this role, he served as senior associate dean for faculty, research, and executive education, leading key initiatives across teaching, research, and industry engagement. He also previously oversaw Fisher’s graduate and executive programs, including MBA and specialized master’s offerings.
A recognized educator and researcher, his work focuses on innovation, organizational learning, and the intersection of AI, ethics, and operational excellence. His research has been featured in leading academic and industry publications, including Harvard Business Review.
He holds a PhD in Business Administration and a master’s degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Minnesota.
Chimdi Chekwa, Co-founder | BILT Connections 
Chimdi is one of the original co-founders of BILT Connections, joining in June of 2023. He is a 2011 graduate of The Ohio State University, where he was an All-American Cornerback from 2006-2011. He went on to play for 6 seasons in the NFL after being drafted in the 4th round of the 2011 NFL draft by the Oakland Raiders. He received his MBA from the University of Miami during his time spent playing with the Miami Dolphins. Chimdi and BILT Connections’ third co-founder, Bryant Browning, owned and operated "The Pit" barbecue restaurant. Chimdi and his wife, Xia, reside in Lewis Center with their 3 children. 
To learn more about Ohio State University Fisher College of Business, please visit https://fisher.osu.edu/
Tune in today as Mikaela Hunt sits down with Aravind Chandrasekaran, from OSU Fisher College of Business, to discuss the future of business: Experiential Learning, Responsible AI, and Leadership.
A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members.
Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in collaboration with the Convergent Media Center at Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller.