Gadsden, AL – Gadsden State Community College has announced Andy Robertson as the new dean of Workforce Development. Robertson, a Sand Rock native, replaces Alan Smith, who was recently promoted to vice president of Capital Projects, Community Relations, and Workforce Development.
“Andy is a dedicated educator and passionate advocate for career technical education,” Smith said. “He has excelled in his previous positions at Gadsden State and brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He is well poised to lead the College’s efforts in technical training and workforce development.”
A Gadsden State alumnus, Robertson earned an Associate in Applied Science in Electronic Engineering Technology in 2003. He later obtained a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Jacksonville State University in 2013 and a Master of Science in Education from Athens State University in 2024.
His career began as a service engineer, followed by a teaching role in Pell City Schools. In 2015, he joined Gadsden State as an instructor of Electronic Engineering Technology at the Ayers Campus. He was named workforce development coordinator in 2020 and later served as division chair of Applied and Engineering Technologies.
During his tenure, Robertson played a key role in developing apprenticeship-style programs such as the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education and the Consortium of Machining Education Training, providing students with hands-on experience in partnership with industry leaders. He also introduced short-term certificate programs, including Additive Manufacturing and Mechatronics Advanced Automation.
As dean, Robertson will oversee Gadsden State’s Workforce Development Division, which provides specialized training, certifications, and skills development tailored to local industry needs. He will also manage the Skills Training Division, Adult Education, and Continuing Education programs.
“I’m incredibly excited to take on this new role and continue the great work we’ve started in Workforce Development,” Robertson said. “My passion for Workforce Development and Career Technical Education comes from firsthand experience with the transformative power of skilled trades and education.”
Robertson emphasized the broader impact of workforce training.
“Skilled trades and technical education don’t just change individual lives; they strengthen families, businesses, and entire communities,” he said. “Seeing someone build a better future for themselves and their family is what makes this work so meaningful to me.”
His vision as dean includes making Gadsden State a premier hub for workforce training, expanding apprenticeship and internship opportunities, and ensuring students gain real-world experience in high-demand fields. He also aims to address workforce development challenges such as skills gaps and labor shortages by increasing flexible learning options, including evening and online courses.
Robertson’s contributions have earned him multiple accolades, including the Chancellor’s Award for Administration in 2024 and the Eugene Prater Exceptional Achievement in Teaching Award in 2019. He has also been recognized in Business Alabama magazine’s “Movers and Shapers” spotlight.
Looking ahead, Robertson is committed to strengthening partnerships between Gadsden State and local businesses.
“By partnering with Gadsden State, businesses can create a skilled talent pipeline, upskill and retain employees, and help strengthen the local economy,” he said. “Let’s work together to build the workforce of tomorrow, today.”
