Dr. Philip Cleveland has joined Wallace State Community College as the new Dean of Technical Education. Cleveland steps in for Ron Moon, who retired this summer.

Cleveland’s work experience spans his first job in the poultry industry to his most recent position as Blount County School System Career Technical Director, and includes service at J.B. Pennington High School first as agriscience instructor, then as assistant principal, and finally as principal.

“I am pleased to announce that Dr. Philip Cleveland has accepted the position,” said Wallace State President Vicki Hawsey. “His leadership successes demonstrate his ability to build teams, grow enrollment, assure quality, and demand excellence.”

Cleveland’s first official day on the job was last Monday, June 25. He spent the week meeting with all the technical departments on campus, and had the chance to see the rest of the Wallace State family at an employee meeting on Friday.

“I’m looking forward to working with all of you,” Cleveland told the group.

“Technical education is my love,” he said. “My father was a masonry contractor, so I was introduced to it early. I have a great appreciation for people who have the desire to learn a trade. In today’s job market, it is the technical folks who have no trouble finding a job. In the 21st Century, it is technical education that allows students to learn the skills to command high salaries and enjoy secure, rewarding careers.”

Having lived and worked in Blount County, Cleveland was familiar with Wallace State before stepping on campus as an employee. He had visited the college many times for events, and also served on its Adult Education advisory committee.

“There is such excitement here,” he said. “This is a dynamic community college on the cutting edge with innovative leadership. The things that Dr. Hawsey encompasses are great. I am excited to be part of the team.”

Cleveland said his goals for the college’s career technical programs will include recruitment, strengthening articulation from the secondary to postsecondary level, and enhancing relationships with career centers, industries and other organizations.

“In meeting with faculty and staff in the technical division, I have asked for a willingness to be open to possibilities. Everyone has had a positive, enthusiastic attitude and we’re looking forward to developing ideas and plans together. Together we can raise the bar to make already good programs great ones.”

Wallace State offers career/technical programs of study in the following areas: Agricultural Production/Horticulture, Automotive Manufacturing Technology, Auto Body Repair, Auto Mechanics, Commercial Foods & Nutrition, Commercial Sewing, Cosmetology, Diesel Mechanics, Drafting and Design Technology, Flight Technology/Aviation, Electronic Technology, Heating & Air Conditioning, Machine Tool Technology (Precision Machining)/Computer Numerical Control (CNC), Upholstery, and Welding

Cleveland’s previous successes include developing new technical programs, implementing career assessment in the Blount County School System, and developing extensive partnerships for articulation and workforce development. In just three years under his leadership, enrollment increased 33 percent at the Blount County Career Technical Center. This Center was selected as one of 12 “Banner Schools” in 2007 by the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools. He designed technical education recruitment materials, initiated and received ISO 9000 Business and Industry Certification for all 32 technical programs, renovated classrooms with technology updates, and secured in excess of $1 million in grants. As a result of his efforts, he was selected to serve on the State Business and Industry Development Advisory Committee as well as other local and regional advisory committees.

Cleveland holds a bachelor’s degree from Auburn University in agriculture business and economics, a master’s degree from Auburn in agriculture education, an A.A. from Alabama A&M in agribusiness education, and an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University.

He resides in Snead with his wife Trina, a third grade teacher at Blountsville Elementary, and 8-year old son, Travis.