Dean of CTE and Workforce Development

Dean of Career Technical Education (CTE) and Workforce Development

Full-Time, 12-Month Administrative Position

Priority Final date to receive applications:
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.

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.

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

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.

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…