College of the Rockies Vice President, Academic Robin Hicks is pleased to announce Chad Flinn as the new Director for Workforce Development.
Within this new role, Flinn will lead initiatives to strengthen partnerships, expand training opportunities, and meet the evolving needs of employers and communities for upskilling and reskilling their workforce.
“The College has a deep commitment to providing quality training to support workforce needs in our region,” Hicks said. “Chad’s extensive experience in forging partnerships and developing innovative programming will advance the College’s priorities to address skills gaps and support economic growth across the region.”
Flinn, who holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership, a Master of Arts in Learning and Technology, as well as Red Seal certification as an electrician, has a long history of partnership building, industry-aligned programming, and responding to labour market needs. In his previous roles as Dean of Trades, Technology, and Applied Research at Medicine Hat College and, more recently, Associate Vice President, Academic at Red Deer Polytechnic he worked closely with employers, governments, and communities to develop programming aligned with regional needs.
“Workforce development is most effective when it is co-created. When we take the time to listen, collaborate, and build alongside employers, communities, and learners, we create educational opportunities that are both relevant and resilient. I’m looking forward to working with partners across the Kootenays to do exactly that.”
Flinn began his role at the College on January 2nd and is excited to be living in the Kootenay region.
“As someone who thrives outdoors, whether backcountry skiing, mountain biking, or fishing, the opportunity to contribute to an institution so closely tied to its communities and natural environment inspires me both personally and professionally. Living and working in the Kootenays has long been a dream of mine,” he adds.
Employers and industry representatives are invited to connect with Chad Flinn at CFlinn@cotr.bc.ca.
Learn more about College of the Rockies at cotr.bc.ca
About College of the Rockies
For 50 years, College of the Rockies has provided post-secondary education that meets the needs and aspirations of the people, industries, and businesses of our region. All our campuses are located on the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa people, which is also home to the Kinbasket people. We value our relationships with the four Ktunaxa bands, the Shuswap band, and the Kootenay Regional Office of the Métis Nation, BC. Each year, thousands of full-time and part-time students join us in a full range of programs, including skilled trades, university arts and sciences, adult upgrading, early childhood education, health and human services, business, office administration, tourism, hospitality, recreation, fire services, continuing education, and contract training. Through smaller class sizes, highly personalized instruction and dedicated support services, our students are primed to succeed in the job market, or in the next stage of their academic journey.
Media Contact:
Darryl Dux
Communications Coordinator
College of the Rockies
ddux@cotr.bc.ca