Dean of Workforce Development and Applied Science

The Dean of Workforce Development and Applied Sciences provide visionary leadership and administrative oversight for a diverse portfolio of academic and career-technical programs. This division encompasses Agriculture, Business & Management, Computer Information Technology, Criminal Justice, and Fire & Emergency Services. The Dean is responsible for bridging the gap between academic instruction and economic demand, ensuring all programs ranging from short-term industry certifications to associate degrees are high-quality, fiscally sustainable, and directly aligned with Louisiana's workforce needs. As a key member of the Academic Affairs leadership team, the Dean drives enrollment growth, secures external funding, and fosters high-level partnerships with industry, government, and public safety agencies.

Job Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Workforce Innovation Provide administrative oversight for all credit and non-credit programs within the division. Lead the rapid development of stackable credentials and micro-credentials that allow students to enter the workforce quickly while progressing toward a degree. Lead the conceptualization, design, and implementation of new Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees and technical diplomas in emerging fields. Ensure all programs meet SACSCOC accreditation standards and specific program certifications. Workforce & Industry Engagement Serve as the primary liaison to regional economic development engines, agricultural boards, and public safety leadership. Align programs with regional labor market data and workforce demands. Develop short-term credentials, certifications, apprenticeships, and customized training programs. Develop revenue-generating contract training and customized workforce solutions for regional business partners. Academic Quality & Industry Alignment Oversee curriculum development, assessment, and continuous improvement processes. Modernize curriculum to reflect emerging technologies. Ensure effective student learning outcomes assessment and program evaluation. Support faculty in innovative teaching practices and instructional technologies. Utilize regional labor market data to justify program expansion or sunsetting of outdated offerings Performance & Fiscal Management Develop and manage divisional budgets in coordination with Business Affairs. Monitor expenditures, equipment purchases, grants, and workforce training funds. Seek and support external funding opportunities including state, federal, and industry grants. Ensure efficient allocation of instructional resources, labs, and technology infrastructure Faculty & Personnel Management Supervise department chairs, program coordinators, and faculty within assigned divisions. Lead faculty recruitment, hiring, evaluation, and professional development. Promote a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. Ensure compliance with institutional policies and collective agreements where applicable Enrollment & Student Success Support recruitment and retention initiatives specific to workforce and technical programs. Compliance & Accreditation Ensure programs meet state licensing and certification standards (POST, technical certifications, etc.). Coordinate program reviews and accreditation reporting. Maintain documentation required for audits, state reporting, and grant compliance.

Minimum Qualifications:

Master's degree in a related field (Business, Agriculture, public Administration, Technology or Education Leadership).

Preferred Qualifications:

Ph.D. in a related field (Business, Agriculture, Public Administration, Technology, or Education Leadership).

Experience:

5 years - - Specific experience in Louisiana Workforce Commission initiatives or Louisiana higher education systems. Experience launching new technical programs or securing significant external grant funding. Background in managing diverse technical programs. Experience in a community college or technical college environment. Experience working with industry partnerships and workforce training grants.

SPECIAL AND/ OR PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS

Ability to sit, stand, and work at a computer for extended periods. Ability to occasionally visit labs, training sites, and industry locations.

Salary Range:

$80,000.00- $110,000.00