Di Tran, the founder of Di Tran University, is a living testament to the transformative power of perseverance, education, and an unwavering belief in human potential. Born in a modest mud hut in Vietnam, Di Tran immigrated to the United States in 1995 at the age of 12, arriving with little more than a dream and a profound appreciation for the freedom and opportunity he found in America, which he describes as “heaven on earth.” From these humble origins, Di Tran has risen to become a visionary entrepreneur, educator, and community leader in Louisville, Kentucky, whose life’s work is dedicated to elevating others to their fullest capabilities. His journey is not just a story of personal triumph but a beacon of inspiration, proving that every step forward—however small—is a realization of what is possible, and that every individual holds within them an extraordinary capacity for greatness.
A Life of Learning and Realization
Di Tran’s path has been one of constant learning, where each experience has served as both a lesson and an opportunity to uplift those around him. Arriving in the U.S. as a young immigrant, he credits over 1,000 Americans for shaping his success, reflecting his deep gratitude and belief in the collective power of community. His academic journey mirrors this ethos of growth: he earned a Bachelor of Science (2001–2006) and a Master of Science (2007–2009) in Computer Engineering and Computer Science from the University of Louisville, followed by an All But Dissertation (ABD) pursuit of a Ph.D. in IT Management at Sullivan University (2013–2017). These achievements were not mere credentials but stepping stones in a lifelong mission to harness knowledge and technology for the betterment of others.
Di Tran’s professional career is equally remarkable. With over 30 years of experience in IT, workforce development, and small business empowerment, he has held pivotal roles such as Principal Application Architect at Humana, where he was one of the first three principals among 7,000 IT professionals, leading projects valued between $300,000 and $5 million with an astonishing 99.999% uptime. His technical expertise, honed through roles at UPS, Mercer, and The Rawlings Group, laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial ventures. Yet, it is his ability to translate this expertise into practical, human-centered solutions that truly sets him apart.
Building an Empire of Impact
In 2007, Di Tran founded Di Tran Enterprise, a multifaceted company that reflects his diverse passions: IT consultation, workforce development, affordable housing, and small business incubation. Under this umbrella, he launched over 15 businesses, including the Louisville Beauty Academy, Louisville Institute of Technology, and Kentucky Pharmacy, employing hundreds and contributing an estimated $20 million to $50 million annually to Louisville’s economy. His real estate endeavors—renovating over 30 buildings and creating self-sustaining affordable housing units—demonstrate his commitment to long-term community stability.
As a pioneer in artificial intelligence, Di Tran has elevated his focus to a master’s level across multiple domains, with plans to achieve PhD-level integration within one to two years. His foresight, rooted in his experience as a top-tier engineer training AI before its widespread prominence, positions him as a leader in shaping the future of education. He believes AI will soon revolutionize teaching across all subjects, a vision he is bringing to life through Di Tran University.
A Heart for Community and Human Connection
Beyond his business acumen, Di Tran’s heart beats for community service. He founded the New American Business Association (NABA), a 501(c)(3) organization empowering immigrant and minority entrepreneurs, and the Louisville Fund A Student Foundation, which has supported hundreds of underserved students in securing education and careers. His advocacy led to the passage of Kentucky’s Senate Bill 14 in March 2024, enabling multi-language licensing exams and resulting in over 100 new licenses issued by September 2024. His non-profit work, coupled with his mentorship of thousands of licensed professionals, underscores his belief that education and opportunity are the cornerstones of empowerment.
Di Tran’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has received the Mosaic Award (2020–2021) from Jewish Family & Career Services, been named one of Louisville Business First’s Most Admired CEOs (2024), and earned the Kentucky Colonel title, among other honors. His authorship of 110+ books, including titles like Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS and Effective Communication in the Salon Environment, reflects his passion for sharing knowledge and inspiring personal growth.
The Vision of Di Tran University
From a mud hut to a transformative educational institution, Di Tran’s journey culminates in the creation of Di Tran University, a pioneering university founded on the principle that every individual is inherently amazing—they simply need the tools and practice to realize it. At the heart of this vision are three core colleges, with the College of Humanization as the cornerstone:
- College of Humanization: Formerly the College of Business, this college embodies Di Tran’s belief in fostering leaders who are both business-savvy and deeply empathetic. It emphasizes human-centric approaches, blending business ethics with a profound understanding of human values to create organizations that prioritize well-being and community impact.
- College of AI: Evolving from the Louisville Institute of Technology, this college is a leader in artificial intelligence education, preparing students to drive innovation in a tech-driven world. It reflects Di Tran’s technical expertise and his vision for AI as a transformative educational tool.
- College of Human Services: Anchored by the Louisville Beauty Academy, a Kentucky State-Licensed and State-Accredited institution, this college focuses on skills requiring personal touch and human connection, such as cosmetology. It ensures graduates excel in technical proficiency and interpersonal excellence.
Di Tran University integrates advanced technology to streamline processes, allowing students and faculty to focus on learning and human connection. For licensing programs like those at the Louisville Beauty Academy, rigorous standards ensure graduates meet regulatory requirements while excelling in their fields. This holistic approach—merging technological efficiency with human values—creates an environment where every individual can achieve their maximum potential.
A Legacy of Elevation
Di Tran’s life is a testament to the idea that every step is a realization of possibility. From his early days in Vietnam to his candidacy for KY State Senate District 37 (2020) and Louisville Metro Council District 21 (2018), and his service on boards like the Kentucky Association of Career Colleges and Schools and the Vietnamese Community of Louisville, he has lived a life of service and elevation. His story is not just about personal success but about creating pathways for others to rise.
At Di Tran University, Di Tran’s legacy takes root. It is a place where students are not only prepared to be work-ready from day one but are inspired to see their own amazing potential. As he often says, “It takes practice for each self to realize so.” Through his unwavering dedication, Di Tran has built an institution that proves all things are possible—and that every individual, like himself, can rise from the humblest beginnings to make a meaningful impact on the world.