Dean of CTE & Workforce Development

Dean of Career Technical Education (CTE) and Workforce Development Full-Time, 12-Month Administrative Position Priority Application Deadline: February 13, 2026. Position will remain open until filled. About Taft College Taft College is a student-centered institution committed to academic excellence, innovation, and equity. As a proud Hispanic-Serving Institution located in the heart of California’s Central Valley, we serve a diverse student body and work closely with our community partners to prepare students for meaningful careers and lifelong learning. Position Overview Taft College is seeking an experienced, visionary, and collaborative Dean of Career Technical Education (CTE) and Workforce Development to lead the College’s dynamic portfolio of CTE programs and workforce initiatives. Under the direction of the Vice President of Instruction, the Dean will provide strategic and administrative leadership, ensuring instructional quality, innovation, and alignment with regional labor market needs. Areas of Oversight Include (but are not limited to): Allied Health & Dental Hygiene Business Administration & General Business Court Reporting Criminal Justice Direct Support Education Early Care, Child Education & Family Studies Energy Technology Management Occupational Safety & Health Welding Technology Administrative Services Key Responsibilities Provide vision and day-to-day leadership for all CTE programs and workforce development efforts. Collaborate with faculty, staff, and administration to develop and assess programs aligned with accreditation, industry standards, and student career goals. Cultivate partnerships with business, industry, and community organizations to enhance program relevance and expand training opportunities. Manage state and federally funded projects, including Strong Workforce and Perkins, and support grant proposal development and compliance. Develop and oversee program budgets to ensure efficient and effective use of resources. Represent Taft College at local, regional, and statewide meetings and events. Serve as a liaison with advisory boards, regional consortia, and governmental agencies. Support student success initiatives including internships, apprenticeships, and work-based learning. Advance institutional efforts such as Guided Pathways and workforce programs that serve underserved populations. Assist in accreditation processes and institutional planning. Minimum Qualifications Master’s degree in a discipline related to the assignment. Three (3) years of full-time teaching and/or administrative experience. One (1) year of formal training, internship, or leadership experience in career technical education. Demonstrated sensitivity to and understanding of diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, and disability backgrounds of community college students. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with California Community College policies and procedures. Experience with curriculum development, program review, and instructional assessment. Strong leadership and communication skills with a commitment to equity and inclusion. Experience in grant writing, budget management, and data-informed decision-making. Understanding of relevant federal and state regulations (Title 5, Education Code). Ability to build effective partnerships across stakeholder groups. Working Conditions This is a full-time, exempt, 12-month administrative position. Work is primarily conducted in an office setting, with occasional off-site meetings and events. Evening or weekend hours may be required. Physical requirements include the ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods, lift up to 25 pounds, and communicate clearly in person and via phone or video conferencing. Hours, Compensation and Benefits This is a full-time position with fantastic benefits! At the West Kern Community College District, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive fringe benefits package, including District-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents. We also offer a generous vacation plan to help you recharge. In addition, you’ll be eligible to participate in the CalPERS or CalSTRS retirement systems, with the option to enhance your retirement savings through 457b and 403b optional retirement plans. This is an incredible opportunity to secure both your present and future while working with a dynamic team! This position is a grade 21 on the management salary schedule, with a range of $137,719-$157,909 annually. Ready to jump in? Follow these simple steps to submit your application: Completed your online application and submit through https://www.taftcollege.edu/human-resources/job_opportunities/ Attach the following documents Resume and Cover Letter Transcripts for all degrees listed, Unofficial are acceptable at this time. Provide contact information for three professional references, including your most recent supervisor. Unfortunately, we are not able to accept letters of reference. Next Steps Thank you for your interest in joining our team! After the closing date, all applications will be carefully reviewed and evaluated based on minimum qualifications and relevant experience. Qualified candidates will be contacted directly for an interview. We look forward to learning more about how you can contribute to our mission and make an impact at Taft College! Equal Employment Opportunity: The West Kern Community College District is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in all aspects of employment. We encourage applications from veterans, individuals with disabilities, women, and members of historically underrepresented groups. The District participates in E-Verify and provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities.