Executive Director | CEO

The Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer (ED/CEO) provides strategic, operational, and visionary leadership for NCATC, a national nonprofit organization advancing advanced technology education, workforce development, and economic vitality. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED/CEO is responsible for executing NCATC’s mission, growing membership and partnerships, ensuring financial sustainability, and representing the organization nationally.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

Provide visionary leadership aligned with NCATC’s mission, strategic plan, and board priorities. Guide organizational growth, transformation, and innovation in advanced technology education and workforce development. Serve as the primary spokesperson and national representative for NCATC.

Board & Governance

Support the Board of Directors by preparing agendas, reports, and strategic recommendations. Coordinate in‑person and virtual board and committee meetings; record and distribute minutes. Ensure compliance with bylaws, IRS requirements (including Form 990), record retention, and governance best practices. Maintain official corporate records, policies, and master organizational calendar.

Financial Management

Lead annual budgeting, financial planning, and fiscal oversight in collaboration with the Treasurer and Board. Ensure accurate financial reporting, GAAP compliance, audits/reviews, tax filings, and reserve planning. Oversee revenues including membership dues, sponsorships, events, and other income streams. Manage financial systems, banking relationships, contracts, and insurance coverage.

Membership & Partner Engagement

Lead membership recruitment, retention, and engagement strategies. Respond to member inquiries and support value‑added services and benefits. Maintain accurate membership records, reporting, and trend analysis. Cultivate strategic partnerships with industry, education, government, and national organizations.

Programs & Member Services

Provide leadership for NCATC’s Member Assistance Program (MAP), offering consultative services related to workforce development, ATC planning, facilities, program development, and community engagement. Deliver grant technical assistance and external evaluation services, including extensive experience with NSF‑ATE and other federal grant programs.

Events & Convenings

Oversee all aspects of NCATC’s Annual Conference, board meetings, webinars, and special events. Lead conference planning, budgeting, site selection, contracts, marketing, registration, exhibitors, sponsorships, and on‑site execution.

Marketing, Communications & Publications

Direct NCATC’s communications strategy including digital newsletters, website, social media, surveys, and press releases. Ensure consistent branding, messaging, and visibility for NCATC and its members. Oversee development of publications, promotional materials, and online content.

External Relations & Advocacy

Represent NCATC with national organizations including AACC and affiliated councils. Participate in workforce and economic development initiatives, advisory boards, and federal or industry‑funded projects. Support policy awareness and education related to workforce and technology education issues.

Administration & Operations

Oversee contracts, vendors, technology systems, data management, and day‑to‑day administrative functions. Supervise and collaborate with the Operations Manager and contractors. Perform other duties as assigned by the Board consistent with the role.

Minimum Qualifications

Senior leadership experience in one or more of the following (or closely related sectors):
• Nonprofit organizations
• Higher education
• Workforce development or related fields

Demonstrated success in:
• Financial management, including budgeting, fiscal oversight, and long‑term sustainability
• Building and sustaining strategic partnerships
• Working with and supporting a Board of Directors

Strong skills in:
• Communication (written, verbal, and public-facing)
• Convening diverse stakeholders and facilitating productive discussions
• Organizational leadership and operational management

Preferred Qualifications

Experience operating at a national level related to one or more of the following:
• Workforce development
• Advanced technology education
• Industry or government initiatives
• Grant management

Additional Experience Valued in Competitive Applicants

• Experience managing grants, particularly federal grants (e.g., NSF–ATE)
• Comfort representing an organization externally and engaging in advocacy
• Oversight of events, membership organizations, or professional associations
• Familiarity with nonprofit compliance and governance requirements (e.g., IRS filings, board governance)

Compensation

NCATC offers a competitive compensation package that includes base compensation, along with opportunities for additional earnings through Board‑approved member services, grant evaluation activities, consulting engagements, facilitation services, training programs, conference‑related activities, sponsorship development, and other strategic initiatives that support the organization’s mission and membership.

The ideal candidate will bring an entrepreneurial mindset and a demonstrated ability to develop innovative programs, strengthen partnerships, create value for members, and support overall organizational growth.

To Apply

Submit a resume, cover letter, three references, and a brief (1–2 page) statement outlining your vision for leading a national workforce and advanced technology education organization. Finalists will be asked to provide professional references.