Director, Center for Workforce Development and Industry Partnerships

Located in the Valley of Sun in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, Grand Canyon University is a regionally accredited, private, nondenominational Christian University. GCU’s mission is to achieve academic excellence, hands-on, applied undergraduate and graduate research as well as raising up our community.

Within the College of Engineering & Technology at GCU, the Director for the Center of Workforce Development will lead the strategic direction, operations, and growth of the Center with a primary focus on developing and expanding trade pathways. This Director role plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academia and industry, driving curriculum innovation, facilitating industry partnerships, and teaming with the GCU and GCE organizations.

What you will do:

Program Development and Management:

• Lead the design, development, and delivery of high-quality workforce training programs that meet industry standards and provide pathways to well-paying jobs in the trades.

• Oversee curriculum development and ensure that programs are relevant, up-to-date, and aligned with evolving industry trends and technological advancements.

• Collaborate with faculty, instructors, and trainers to ensure best practices in instructional delivery and workforce readiness.

Industry Engagement & Partnership Development

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with companies, industry associations, and government agencies to support workforce development initiatives.

• Identify and assist in securing funding opportunities, including grants, donations, and partnerships, to support program growth and sustainability.

• Engage with industry advisory board to gain insights and ensure the Center’s offerings are industry-responsive.

Operational Management:

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the Center, including budgeting, staffing, and resource allocation.

• Lead, mentor, and supervise staff, ensuring they are aligned with the Center’s goals and objectives.

• Track program outcomes and impact, providing regular reports to stakeholders and adjusting strategies as needed to achieve workforce development goals.

Outreach and Engagement:

• Represent the university at industry conferences, workshops, and networking events to promote workforce development initiatives.

• Lead marketing and outreach efforts (in conjunction with next bullet) to attract students to workforce development programs.

• Collaborate with K-12 organizations, community colleges, universities, and industry to develop pathways for students interested in pursuing careers in the industry.

Assessment and Reporting:

• Establish metrics and assessment tools to measure the effectiveness of workforce development programs and initiatives.

• Prepare and present reports to university leadership, industry partners, and funding agencies on program outcomes and impacts.

• Ensure compliance with accreditation standards and other regulatory requirements related to workforce development programs.

What you need:

• Experience in and strong understanding of the skilled trades sector, including emerging trends and workforce needs. 

• Demonstrated experience building partnerships with industry, government, and community organizations.

• Proven leadership experience, including managing teams, developing strategies, and driving program success.

• Excellent project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

• Must pass pre-employment background investigation.

• Provide a positive example to students by supporting the University’s Doctrinal Statement, Ethical Position Statement and Mission of Grand Canyon University.

Bonus:

• Grant writing and fundraising experience. 

Why work at GCU:

• Exceptional workplace benefits include medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, a 401K savings plan

• Generous time off plan and 11 paid holidays

• Paid time off to volunteer in the community or at GCU sponsored events

• Free covered parking

• We also offer full-time employees, their spouses, and dependent children an Education Tuition Discount Program

• Free on-site gyms on campus