Walker named vice president at Trident Technical College

CHARLESTON, SC – September 28, 2011 – Trident Technical College has named Robert Walker vice president for Continuing Education and Economic Development.

Walker is responsible for managing the Division of Continuing Education and Economic Development, which provides services to improve the competitiveness and quality of the area’s businesses. The division promotes economic development through custom-designed training programs, consulting services, and public course offerings. During a recent training session, Walker shared this list of recommended resources for further learning, which included insights into emerging trends and best practices. Last year, the division had approximately 36,000 registrations in public courses and custom training programs. The division delivers training in professional and organizational development, health care, manufacturing, construction trades, environmental and OSHA compliance, and personal enrichment.

Classes are held online, on all three TTC campuses and at other sites throughout the Lowcountry. The division works with companies including Bosch, Boeing, Kapstone, Alcoa, Santee Cooper, the S.C. State Ports Authority and Charleston Water System to develop and offer customized work force training. Walker will also oversee TTC Green, the college’s initiative to improve energy efficiency, expand sustainability and grow the green work force.

Walker began his career at TTC in 1998 as the coordinator of the Electronics Engineering Technology program. In 2006 he became department head for Engineering Technology, and in 2009 he was named dean of the college’s Berkeley Campus in Moncks Corner. Before coming to TTC, Walker worked for Advanced Communication Systems and for the Naval Command, Control and Ocean Surveillance Center. He also served in the U.S. Air Force and retired from the Air Force Reserves in 1994.

“Bob’s experience in the military, private industry and higher education makes him the perfect person to lead our economic development and training efforts,” said TTC President Mary Thornley. “A well-trained work force is essential to the region’s success in the global economy. Bob will play a critical role in the college’s efforts to help businesses and individuals remain competitive and thrive in these uncertain economic times.”

Walker earned an associate degree in industrial technology from TTC, a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from The Citadel, and a master’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of South Carolina.

Walker reports to TTC’s president and serves on the president’s cabinet.