Pierpont Community & Technical College
Fairmont, West Virginia
The Board of Governors of Pierpont Community & Technical College invites applications for the position of President. The College seeks a dynamic and visionary leader with extensive academic and senior administrative experience who will guide the institution to new levels of excellence. The next President will passionately champion Pierpont’s mission of providing accessible, high-quality education and workforce training that enriches lives and supports the economic vitality of North Central West Virginia and the state as a whole.
About the College
Established in 1974, Pierpont Community & Technical College is a comprehensive public institution dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals and communities throughout North Central West Virginia. The College fulfills this mission by providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality educational opportunities that respond to the evolving needs of students, employers, and the regional economy.
Originally established as part of Fairmont State University, Pierpont became an independent institution in 2021, marking a significant milestone in its evolution as a stand-alone community and technical college within West Virginia’s higher education system. The College continues to advance its role as a leader in workforce preparation, academic excellence, and community engagement.
Pierpont is committed to the success of every learner. Its academic and technical programs are designed to prepare students for gainful employment, career advancement, and transfer to four-year institutions. The College serves a diverse student population that includes first-generation college students, adult learners returning to higher education, and individuals pursuing new career pathways. Through flexible scheduling, innovative instructional delivery, and comprehensive student support services, Pierpont creates an inclusive environment that promotes equity, persistence, and achievement.
More than 2,000 students are enrolled annually in one of Pierpont’s three academic schools: the School of Business, Aviation, and Technology; the School of Health Sciences; and the School of General Education and Professional Studies. Collectively, these schools offer more than 50 programs of study leading to an Associate of Arts, Associate of Applied Science, or Certificate of Applied Science, as well as a variety of short-term skill set programs that align with regional workforce needs. Program areas include, but are not limited to, aviation maintenance technology, advanced welding, early childhood education, applied process technology, liberal studies, food service management, and a variety of health sciences programs.
Pierpont’s service area encompasses 13 counties across North Central West Virginia, with instruction delivered at multiple educational centers, career and technical schools, and community sites. This regional presence allows the College to extend its reach and strengthen its impact on economic and workforce development.
The College maintains a strong tradition of partnership and collaboration. Working closely with business and industry, K-12 school systems, government agencies, and community organizations, Pierpont ensures that its programs remain responsive to labor market demands and emerging economic opportunities. In doing so, the College contributes to the vitality of the region and fosters the development of skilled, informed, and engaged citizens who positively influence their communities and workplaces.
Through its commitment to educational excellence, workforce relevance, and community service, Pierpont Community & Technical College continues to exemplify its mission of providing accessible, responsive, comprehensive education that works.
About the Region
Pierpont Community & Technical College serves a 13-county region in North Central West Virginia, a part of the state known for its scenic landscapes, rich history, and growing economic opportunities. The region offers an exceptional quality of life where mountain views meet modern innovation, and community pride drives progress.
From the rolling hills of Marion, Harrison, and Monongalia Counties to the mountain valleys of Upshur, Barbour, Lewis, Randolph, and Tucker Counties, the area features abundant outdoor recreation and breathtaking natural beauty. Residents and visitors enjoy hiking and kayaking at Valley Falls, Audra, and Tygart Lake State Parks, skiing at Canaan Valley and Timberline, or exploring the Monongahela National Forest and countless local trails, rivers, and scenic byways.
Alongside its natural charm, the region is experiencing growth across multiple sectors. Aerospace, advanced manufacturing, energy, health care, information technology, and tourism are expanding rapidly, supported by a skilled workforce and strong partnerships among education, industry, and community leaders. Employers in aviation maintenance, precision machining, and renewable energy have established a strong presence along the I-79 corridor, while local hospitals, health systems, and technology firms continue to create new opportunities for graduates.
Historic towns such as Buckhannon, Philippi, Weston, Grafton, and Elkins add cultural vibrancy with festivals, local dining, and downtown revitalization efforts. Affordable living, safe neighborhoods, and short commutes make North Central West Virginia a place where people truly enjoy both work and life.
Centrally located within 90 minutes of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and two hours from Charleston, West Virginia, Pierpont’s region offers easy access to metropolitan amenities while maintaining the warmth and beauty of Appalachian living. It’s a place where innovation meets tradition—an ideal environment to live, learn, and lead.
The Opportunity
The presidency of Pierpont Community & Technical College represents an exceptional opportunity to lead one of West Virginia’s most prominent community and technical colleges. With a strong foundation of academic quality, workforce relevance, and community partnership, Pierpont is positioned for continued growth and innovation. Centered on student achievement and regional service, the College is deeply committed to advancing opportunities that strengthen both the lives of its students and the economic vitality of North Central West Virginia.
Building upon the institution’s accomplishments, the next President will guide efforts to expand and enhance academic programs, workforce training, and student services while developing new initiatives that respond to emerging industry trends and educational needs. This leader will provide strategic direction across all campuses and instructional sites, ensuring that Pierpont remains a model of access, inclusion, and educational excellence.
A key priority will be raising Pierpont’s visibility across its 13-county service region and throughout the state. The President will promote the College’s mission and vision through engagement with community partners, government leaders, and business and industry stakeholders, positioning Pierpont as a driving force in workforce and economic development.
The successful candidate will be a collaborative and decisive leader who values shared governance, transparency, and open communication. The President must possess the ability to balance opportunities and challenges thoughtfully, build consensus among diverse perspectives, and foster a learning and working environment that is inclusive, student-focused, and adaptable to change.
This individual will have a demonstrated record of effective leadership in higher education, including fiscal management, human resources administration, and strategic planning. A strong understanding of state-level budgeting and policy processes will be essential. The President will also play a central role in cultivating partnerships that expand educational and workforce opportunities and, as the institution’s chief fundraiser, will actively engage public and private stakeholders to strengthen financial support for programs and initiatives.
The President reports directly to the Board of Governors, which serves as the College’s governing body. The 12-member Board includes representatives of faculty, classified staff, and students, as well as members appointed by the Governor. Together, the Board and President share a deep commitment to advancing the mission, vision, and strategic goals of Pierpont Community & Technical College through collaboration, accountability, and service to the region.
Duties and Responsibilities
The President serves as the chief executive officer of Pierpont Community & Technical College and provides visionary, strategic, and operational leadership across all areas of the institution. The President works closely with the Board of Governors, executive leadership, faculty, staff, students, and community partners to advance the College’s mission of providing accessible, high-quality education and workforce training that supports regional economic growth and student success.
Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Strategic and Institutional Leadership
- Provide strategic vision and leadership that align with the College’s mission, values, and long-term goals.
- Lead institutional planning processes, ensuring effective assessment, data-driven decision-making, and continuous improvement.
- Direct and evaluate the effectiveness of academic, administrative, and operational structures to promote efficiency, innovation, and accountability.
- Anticipate and respond to emerging opportunities and challenges in higher education and the regional economy.
Fiscal Management and Resource Development
- Oversee budgeting strategies and financial models that ensure fiscal stability, support responsible growth, and sustain high-quality programs and services.
- Exercise sound financial stewardship of institutional resources and promote transparency in financial decision-making.
- Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies, securing both programmatic and capital support through public and private partnerships, grants, and philanthropic giving.
External Relations and Partnerships
- Build and sustain strong partnerships with business and industry, educational institutions, community organizations, and government agencies.
- Serve as an active and visible advocate for the College throughout North Central West Virginia and beyond.
- Engage effectively with local, state, and federal policymakers to advance the College’s interests and influence public policy that supports higher education and workforce development.
- Strengthen the College’s visibility and reputation through strategic marketing, communication, and outreach initiatives.
Academic and Student Success Leadership
- Champion academic excellence, student access, and equitable outcomes for all learners.
- Support the development of innovative and relevant academic programs that reflect workforce demands and emerging fields.
- Lead initiatives to increase enrollment, retention, and completion through student-centered practices and campus-based success initiatives.
- Promote a culture of assessment, continuous improvement, and instructional innovation.
Culture, People, and Organizational Development
- Foster a welcoming and collaborative campus environment where every individual feels valued and supported.
- Promote a workplace culture grounded in respect, fairness, and open communication that encourages teamwork and mutual understanding.
- Support the professional growth and well-being of faculty and staff through meaningful development opportunities and recognition of excellence.
- Encourage a spirit of cooperation and shared purpose across all departments and campuses.
- Lead by example through integrity, transparency, and accountability in all decisions and actions.
- Cultivate an atmosphere that celebrates the unique perspectives, backgrounds, and contributions of the College community, strengthening both learning and engagement.
Governance and Compliance
- Maintain an effective and transparent working relationship with the Board of Governors, ensuring alignment between board policy and institutional priorities.
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including adherence to the West Virginia State Ethics Act and all applicable higher education policies.
- Represent the College with professionalism and integrity to internal and external audiences.
- Perform additional responsibilities as assigned by the Board of Governors to advance the mission of the College.
Minimum Qualifications
- Education: Doctorate or other terminal degree.
- Experience: At least ten years of progressively responsible administrative and teaching experience at a community college or other degree-granting institution (an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered).
Other Qualifications:
- Demonstrated student-centered leadership with a service-oriented approach.
- Proven experience in strategic planning, financial leadership, and institutional advancement.
- Political acumen and the ability to engage effectively with state systems and elected officials.
- Excellent analytical, written, and verbal communication skills.
- Collaborative leadership style with sound judgment, initiative, and creativity.
- Ability to identify and act on emerging trends and opportunities.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and ethical governance.
- Ability to travel regionally and nationally as needed.
Physical and Work Requirements
Work is primarily performed in an office environment with frequent interruptions and occasional travel. Normal physical mobility and the ability to travel regionally and nationally, sometimes on short notice, are required.
Application Process
Applicants must submit the following materials for full consideration:
- A cover letter that addresses their interest in the position and speaks directly to the leadership qualities described in this profile, incorporating specific examples of actions, accomplishments, and results achieved in previous roles
- A current curriculum vitae
- Contact information for five professional references
- Unofficial transcripts for all earned degrees (official transcripts required upon hire)
- Completion of Pierpont’s online employment application in BambooHR
All required documents must be uploaded as PDF attachments within the BambooHR system.
Applications should be submitted electronically on the job posting.
For best consideration, applications should be received by December 22, 2025.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and the Community and Technical College System of West Virginia are equal opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. The Commission and Council provide a collegial and respectful environment that values the contributions of all staff.
Questions?
Contact kbiddle@pierpont.edu with questions or concerns.