Local A-B Tech Staff Graduate from Regional Leadership Academy

Four employees from A-B Tech Community College completed the Western Community College Leadership Academy this spring. The academy, started at A-B Tech in 2021, works with other community colleges including Blue Ridge, Haywood, and Southwestern, to provide a year-long leadership development program. The 2024 graduates from A-B Tech are Patrycja Manning, Tonya Mintz, Scott Paxon, and Megan Triplett.

Barbara Cooney, the Director of Professional Development at A-B Tech, oversees the program. Cooney shared her positive views on the program, noting the collaborative effort among the colleges which enhances their collective capabilities.

Each year, leadership teams and presidents from the colleges involved select employees to join the academy. The selection focuses on individuals who show potential for high performance and leadership. Since its start, the academy has trained over 55 employees, with plans for the next group already underway.

The academy's curriculum aims to develop leaders who can adapt to changes in higher education. It includes monthly sessions on topics like strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, and managing personal change. These sessions also encourage sharing ideas and networking among participants from different regions.

This article has been enhanced with AI assistance. Agree to access AI-generated content by clicking here, or opt for content with less AI influence here.