08-03-2025
Gadsden State names new dean of workforce development
Andy Robertson of Sand Rock has been appointed the new dean of workforce development at Gadsden State Community College, replacing Alan Smith, who recently moved into the role of vice president for capital projects, community relations and workforce development.
'Andy is a dedicated educator and passionate advocate for career technical education,' Smith said. 'He has excelled in his previous positions at Gadsden State and brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He is well poised to lead the College's efforts in technical training and workforce development.'
A 2003 graduate of Gadsden State, Robertson earned an Associate in Applied Science in Electronic Engineering Technology. He credits his two-year degree with helping him achieve success in his career.
'I am where I am today thanks to my two-year degree from Gadsden State,' Robertson said. 'I am proof of the direct impact the hands-on education can have on people's lives.'
Robertson later earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Jacksonville State University in 2013 and a Master of Science in Education from Athens State University in 2024.
He began his career at Gadsden State in 2015 as an instructor of Electronic Engineering Technology at Gadsden State's Ayers Campus in Anniston. Prior to that, Robertson worked for five years as a service engineer and briefly taught in the Pell City school system. Robertson became the college's workforce development coordinator in 2020 and also served as the division chair of Applied and Engineering Technologies at the Ayers Campus.
During his tenure at Gadsden State, Robertson helped develop two apprenticeship-style programs: the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education and the Consortium of Machining Education Training. Both initiatives provide students with hands-on experience in partnership with industry leaders. He has also expanded the college's offerings by introducing several short-term certificate programs, including Additive Manufacturing and Mechatronics Advanced Automation.
As dean, Robertson will oversee the Workforce Development Division, which includes specialized training, certifications and skill development for local industries. He will also manage the Skills Training Division, adult education and continuing education.
'I'm incredibly excited to take on this new role and continue the great work we've started in workforce development,' Robertson said. 'My passion for workforce development and career technical education comes from firsthand experience with the transformative power of skilled trades and education. One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been seeing students complete a workforce program and immediately secure a job that provides stability and a path to success.'
Robertson said that a technical education benefits more than just individual students.
'They strengthen families, businesses and entire communities,' he said. 'Seeing someone build a better future for themselves and their family is what makes this work so meaningful to me.'
Looking ahead, Robertson aims to make Gadsden State a premier hub for workforce training in the region. He plans to align programs more closely with local industry needs and expand opportunities for apprenticeships, internships, and co-op placements to provide students with real-world training in high-demand fields.
'The role of Gadsden State's workforce development programs is crucial in meeting the needs of local industries and businesses,' Robertson said. 'We provide industry-specific training that ensures students are equipped with relevant skills to thrive in today's job market. By strengthening our connections with local employers, we can build a skilled workforce that drives economic growth in the region.'
Robertson is also focused on overcoming regional workforce development challenges, such as skills gaps, labor shortages, and access to training. He plans to expand flexible learning options, including evening and online courses, to make workforce training more accessible.
'I plan to expand flexible learning options like evening and online courses to make workforce training more accessible to a wider audience,' he said. 'We will continue working closely with employers to identify skill gaps and develop targeted programs to bridge them, ensuring that students graduate with the skills employers are looking for.'
Robertson's contributions to Gadsden State have been recognized with several accolades, including the Chancellor's Award for Administration in 2024 and the Eugene Prater Exceptional Achievement in Teaching Award in 2019. He is a graduate of the Faculty Development Institute, the Gadsden State Leadership Academy and Leadership Calhoun County. In July 2024, Business Alabama magazine featured Robertson in its 'Movers and Shapers' spotlight.
Now, as dean, Robertson hopes to further elevate the college's reputation through partnerships and workforce development initiatives.
'By partnering with Gadsden State, businesses can create a skilled talent pipeline, upskill and retain existing employees and help strengthen the local economy,' he said. 'Let's work together to build the workforce of tomorrow, today.'
