Dr. Kevin Nelson, Assistant Professor of Accounting at A&M–Central Texas, talks to his class in the new finance lab on campus.
Texas A&M University–Central Texas has opened a new Finance Lab, integrating real-time market data, industry-standard software, and collaborative workspaces to prepare students for careers in finance, banking, and financial technology (fintech).
The Finance Lab features Telemet Finance Lab software, TekVok and Mersive technology, and a real-time financial ticker, allowing students to engage with live and historical market data in a hands-on learning environment.
“Our mission calls for innovative education and transformative experiences, and this room better facilitates that for accounting and finance students as opposed to traditional classrooms,” said Dr. Lucas Loafman, Interim Dean and Professor of Business.
Unlike traditional classrooms, the Finance Lab is built for interaction. The four-pod layout and swing-out monitors encourage group discussions, while large display screens allow students to cast financial models and presentations.
“The design behind the room was to promote in-class group work through four independent pods with access to an independent display,” said Reuben Noland, Manager of Strategic Initiatives and Business Operations.
Dr. Anthony Fulmore, Associate Professor and Chair of Accounting and Finance Department, emphasized the lab’s role in preparing students for the modern financial industry.
“The Finance Lab gives students a real-world environment that takes them beyond the classroom and into hands-on simulations of modern financial markets. By working with advanced software and live financial data, they sharpen their critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills, which are essential qualities for student success,” Fulmore said. “This experiential learning in market analysis, risk management, and portfolio evaluation produces the well-rounded expertise top employers look for.”
Currently, the Finance Lab runs on Telemet software. Loafman said the faculty is looking to secure additional software to bring the program in line with elite finance education institutions.
The lab also supports faculty research, particularly in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) data analysis.
Beyond coursework, A&M-Central Texas plans to use the Finance Lab for community programs. This spring, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, in which students will gain real-world financial service experience while supporting local residents with tax preparation, will be hosted in the Finance Lab.
The Finance Lab is already fully booked with finance and accounting courses. Loafman said the new lab will better prepare students for careers in the finance sector.
“If your students are not using the technology that industry is, their employability is significantly hampered. We’re doing everything we can to put the best tools in their hands to help them be successful,” Loafman said.
The finance lab was made possible by a donation from the Texas A&M University–Central Texas Foundation, and a grant from the Higginbotham Foundation.