Director of Skilled Trades and Technical Education

Discover the opportunity to join Baker College, honored as one of the 2024, 2025 & 2026 Best and Brightest Workplaces in West Michigan, Metro Detroit & Nationally!

Baker College is thrilled to announce an opportunity for a high-impact, visionary Director of Skilled Trades and Technical Education to lead our premier technical program at our Owosso campus!

Baker College is seeking a visionary, entrepreneurial leader to shape the future of skilled trades and technical education-one who can transform industry needs into innovative learning opportunities, build powerful partnerships, and create clear pathways from the classroom to rewarding careers. As Director of Skilled Trades and Technical Education, this individual will drive the strategic growth and operational excellence of Baker College's skilled trades portfolio, including the Auto Diesel Institute (ADI), expanding programs that prepare students to meet evolving workforce demands while strengthening the College's impact on Michigan's economy.

The Director will lead the growth and development of Baker College's skilled trades programs by identifying workforce-driven opportunities, evaluating new programs and credentials, and guiding initiatives from concept through launch. The role will cultivate partnerships with employers, high schools, career and technical education centers, and workforce organizations to expand dual enrollment, articulation, apprenticeship, and career pathways while supporting enrollment and program visibility. The director will strengthen the performance, enrollment, industry relevance, and financial sustainability of the Auto Diesel Institute (ADI), oversee personnel and daily operations, and ensure instructional facilities, labs, tools, and equipment are safe, well-maintained, and aligned with industry standards. Working collaboratively with academic leadership and institutional partners, the director will support faculty recruitment and development, advance curriculum quality, pursue external funding and shared-resource opportunities, and establish measurable goals, budgets, and timelines to drive continuous improvement and sustainable results.

Rooted in collaboration, innovation, and Baker College's Student- First philosophy, this leader will transform bold ideas into meaningful outcomes that create lasting opportunities for students and strengthen partnerships within the industry.

The ideal candidate will hold a bachelor's degree complemented by extensive industry and leadership experience, with industry-recognized credentials or trades licensure preferred. Candidates must have at least five years of progressively responsible experience in higher education, K-12 career and technical education with higher education partnerships, vocational or technical education, skilled trades, workforce development, or industrial sector management. The successful candidate will demonstrate a proven ability to launch or expand programs and training initiatives, build strategic partnerships that deliver measurable results, manage business planning and financial resources, execute projects effectively, and foster strong relationships. The role also requires demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to coordinate initiatives and collaborate across departments to achieve strategic goals.

Relevant industry credentials, journey-level certifications, or specialized technical certifications, such as ASE, AWS, HVAC, NC3, or PMMI, are highly desirable. OSHA 10/30-Hour General Industry or Environmental Health and Safety credentials are preferred. A valid driver's license is required for travel among campus locations, high schools, CTE centers, and regional partner sites.

At Baker College, we're on a mission to transform education with a Student-First philosophy. Our President's vision is dedicated to creating an environment where students, faculty, and staff flourish. We cultivate a culture of belonging, engagement, and pride where every individual is appreciated.

The successful candidate will champion this student-first philosophy, contributing to the overall success of Baker College while acting as a positive role model and brand ambassador both on and off campus.

The full position description is available for your review online Director of Skilled Trades and Technical Education

About Baker College:

Founded in 1911, Baker College is committed to embracing technology, sparking innovation, and fostering a supportive learning environment where students can get the real-world knowledge, skills, and experiences they need to pursue the life and career they want. Each of our campus locations is special, with a unique culture, collection of academic programs, and landscape.

Baker College is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campuses across Michigan and online. Our student-first philosophy is the cornerstone of our institution. It is our compass, guiding us and keeping us on course to ensure our students have every opportunity to work hard, grow, and succeed. Because at Baker College, Greatness is Earned Here!

Please visit Baker College Careers Page for more information.

Title IX Non-Discrimination Policy:

Baker College prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator. The notice of nondiscrimination is located in the Baker College Title IX Policy.