The Executive Director for Advanced Manufacturing Partnerships supports the Vice President of Economic Development and provides leadership and oversight for the Advanced Manufacturing Center. This role is responsible for relationship development, sales, training program delivery, and industry engagement. The Executive Director serves as a key liaison to regional manufacturers, businesses, and community organizations, promoting GPTC’s mission and workforce solutions.

Strategic Partnerships & Community Engagement

• Support the Vice President of Economic Development in building and maintaining relationships with local employers, workforce investment boards, nonprofits, and economic development organizations.

• Serve as the primary liaison to the manufacturing industry, identifying opportunities for collaboration, sponsorships, and talent development.

• Actively seek and cultivate new partnerships that align with the College’s mission and strategic goals.

• Maintain strong visibility and leadership presence in the local and regional community.

Business Development & Sales

• Develop, plan, and execute a comprehensive sales strategy to increase revenue and grow client relationships.

• Conduct employer needs assessments and promote GPTC solutions including internships, workforce training, continuing education, and industry certifications.

• Build the College’s market position by locating, developing, defining, negotiating, and closing business deals.

• Coordinate with economic development units to implement innovative sales strategies.

• Maintain accurate documentation of sales activity, outreach, client communication, and revenue performance.

Training Program Oversight

• Assess, develop, and implement non-credit and customized training programs in advanced manufacturing.

• Provide administrative oversight of non-credit programs delivered through the Advanced Manufacturing Center.

• Coordinate scheduling of courses and training with Academic Affairs.

• Work with faculty and administration to ensure training programs meet regional business needs and comply with federal, state, and accreditation standards.

• Provide instruction in economic development programs as needed.

• Assist in the recruitment, registration, and supervision of part-time instructors and prospective students.

Marketing & Outreach

• Plan and implement targeted marketing campaigns for new and existing programs.

• Standardize client outreach processes and coordinate across sales, marketing, and client management teams.

• Create a strong local and regional brand for GPTC’s manufacturing and workforce programs.

Workforce Alignment & Talent Development

• Partner with Career Services and academic units to develop work-based learning opportunities, internships, and job placements.

• Share industry insights and data with College stakeholders to ensure alignment of credit and non-credit programs with current workforce trends.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of advanced manufacturing technology, including PLCs, robotics, and industrial automation systems (e.g., Kuka, ABB, Fanuc, Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi Electric).

• Expertise in Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement methodologies.

• Effective oral and written communication skills.

• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and project management abilities.

• Proficiency in data analysis, recordkeeping, and reporting.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across internal and external stakeholders.