Dr. Michael Ramage Returns to Sprocket Board of Directors to Advance Western Kentucky's Tech Economy
Murray State University Cyber Education Leader Brings Renewed Focus on Regional Tech Talent Retention and Innovation
PADUCAH, KY – September 19, 2025 – Sprocket, the leading entrepreneurial innovation hub serving Western Kentucky's 22-county region, announces that Dr. Michael Ramage has rejoined its Board of Directors. Dr. Ramage, who served as Sprocket's first board president and remained on the board for many years, returns with a renewed commitment to positioning Western Kentucky as a technology leader.
As Director of the Cyber Education and Research Center at Murray State University, Dr. Ramage brings extensive experience in workforce development, cybersecurity education, and regional innovation planning. His return to Sprocket's board comes at a pivotal time as the organization works to retain tech talent in Western Kentucky and create opportunities for technology companies to launch and scale locally.
"Paducah will always be home for me, and I want Paducah and Western Kentucky to be a place where tech can launch and scale with tech talent that is able to stay local," said Dr. Ramage. "Sprocket is working to make that a reality, and I believe the organization is in a unique position to accelerate our region's tech economy."
Dr. Ramage's passion for Sprocket's mission stems from his long-standing belief in the region's potential for technological innovation. "From the beginning, I've supported Sprocket's mission of growing tech and fostering collaboration among like-minded innovators in Paducah and across Western Kentucky," he explained.
Having stepped away from the board in recent years, Dr. Ramage expressed enthusiasm about returning to direct involvement with the organization. "I missed that connection and missed the direct involvement in the work of Sprocket. I am excited to rejoin the board and ready to help Sprocket continue positioning Paducah and Western Kentucky as a tech leader in our state and beyond."
In his renewed role, Dr. Ramage plans to focus on areas where his expertise can make the greatest impact, including workforce development, mentorship programs, program development, and innovation planning. "If I can help with workforce development, mentorship, program development, and innovation planning, then I am honored to play a small role in what is a really forward-thinking nonprofit," he said.
Dr. Ramage's return reinforces Sprocket's commitment to building a robust technology ecosystem in Western Kentucky that allows entrepreneurs and tech professionals to build successful careers without leaving the region. His background in cybersecurity education and research aligns perfectly with Sprocket's mission to support diverse technology ventures across the 22-county area.
About Dr. Michael Ramage
Dr. Michael Ramage serves as Director of the Cyber Education and Research Center at Murray State University, where he leads initiatives in cybersecurity education and workforce development. He holds a PhD and brings extensive experience in technology education, research, and regional innovation planning.
About Sprocket
Sprocket is an organization that drives innovation and business development in Western Kentucky’s 22 counties, and beyond. Based in Paducah KY, Sprocket provides physical office spaces for entrepreneurs, business development consulting through free mentorship to the region, and Startup guidance through its soon-to-be nation-wide “Market Fit Lab”.
Media Contact: Josiah Wright
Growth Strategist, Sprocket
Phone: 785.206.0404
Email: josiah@sprocketpaducah.com