About WDA

About the Workforce
Deans Academy

The Workforce Deans Academy (WDA) is an annual, cohort-based program sponsored by the Workforce Education Council and administered by the Center of Excellence for Careers in Education and focuses on both leadership and the practical skills necessary to succeed and lead in the complex world of workforce and professional/technical education.

Vision

Every workforce leader advocates for equitable student outcomes within higher education.

Mission

Develop a network of diverse leaders who support quality workforce education and
development across the Washington State community and technical college system.

Objectives

  • Develop equity-minded leaders with the practical knowledge and skills to support quality workforce education and development across the community and technical college system
  • Build a network among workforce leaders that will support continued collaboration and systemic change
  • Foster an environment that supports meaningful, open, respectful, and courageous conversation and learning

DEDICATED TO WORKFORCE LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

The Workforce Deans Academy is a specialized program tailored to the unique needs and aspirations of individuals actively pursuing or aspiring to leadership roles within workforce at our community and technical colleges. While we enthusiastically welcome applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences, our program is specifically designed to support those dedicated to workforce leadership. Our curriculum and resources are structured to address the challenges and opportunities specific to workforce, providing a valuable learning experience for participants on this career path.

Academy Advisory Board

At the core of the Board’s desire is to continuously update the Deans Academy curriculum, structure, and processes to better serve our workforce professionals while demonstrating a deep commitment to equity.

  • Krista Fox, Dean of Instruction, Health, Business and Professional Studies, Tacoma Community College
  • Krissy Kim, Dean of Instruction at Joint Base Lewis McChord, Pierce College
  • Paulette Lopez, Dean of Instruction, Highline College
  • Barry Robinson, VPI, Whatcom Community College
  • Jamie Wells, Director, Center of Excellence for Careers in Education

 

The WDA is administered by the Washington State Center of Excellence for Careers in Education, hosted at Green River College.

 

The Role of the Advisory Board

Provide guidance and governance on workforce-related programs and activities

As workforce leaders representing a diverse range of campuses and expertise, the advisory board will provide input and guidance on workforce-related programs produced by the Center of Excellence including Workforce Deans Academy.

Review and provide guidance on Workforce Deans Academy materials including curriculum, format, and admission rubrics

The advisory board will continue to work with the Center Director and other stakeholders to ensure that the Workforce Deans Academy training is best-in-class and meets its stated objectives.

Screen applications for the Academy based on admission rubric

The board or a committee of board members will serve as the selection committee for Academy participants to provide a balanced and equitable approach to cohort selection.

Serve as workforce liaisons to stakeholders

The advisory board will serve as liaisons to the Workforce Education Council, State Board for Community & Technical Colleges, and will lend their expertise to advance work in support of workforce education and development.

“The Deans Academy provided me the foundation to go from serving as a Workforce Director to being an effective Workforce Dean, Vice President of Instruction, and now College President.”

Angel Reyna
President, Madera Community College