GADSDEN, AL – Andy Robertson of Sand Rock has been named the new dean of Workforce Development at Gadsden State Community College. He 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.”
Robertson graduated with an Associate in Applied Science in Electronic Engineering Technology in 2003 from Gadsden State. He said he’s proud to be a Gadsden State alum.
“I am where I am today thanks to my two-year degree from Gadsden State,” he said. “I am proof of the direct impact the hands-on education can have on people’s lives.”
Robertson later earned 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.
After working for five years as a service engineer and a stint as a teacher in the Pell City Schools, Robertson came to Gadsden State in 2015 as an instructor of Electronic Engineering Technology at the Ayers Campus. In 2020, he was named the College’s workforce development coordinator. He also served as the division chair of Applied and Engineering Technologies on the Ayers Campus.
Robertson’s career at Gadsden State has been marked by his instrumental work in the development of two apprenticeship-style programs— the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education and the Consortium of Machining Education Training. These programs provide students with hands-on experience in partnership with world-class industry leaders. Additionally, Robertson has expanded Gadsden State's offerings by introducing several short-term certificate programs, including Additive Manufacturing and Mechatronics Advanced Automation.
In his new role as dean, Robertson is responsible for overseeing Gadsden State’s Workforce Development Division, which provides specialized training, certifications and skills development designed to meet the evolving needs of local industries and businesses. He also oversees the Skills Training Division, Adult Education and Continuing Education.
“I’m incredibly excited to take on this new role and continue the great work we’ve started in Workforce Development,” he said. “My passion for Workforce Development and Career Technical Education comes from firsthand experience with the transformative power of skilled trades and education. One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been seeing students complete a workforce program and immediately secure a job that provides stability and a path to success.”
Robertson said the skilled trades and technical education don’t just change the lives of the individual students.
“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.”
As the new Dean, Robertson’s vision is to make Gadsden State a premier hub for workforce training in the region, aligning programs more closely with local industry needs. He plans to expand apprenticeship, internship and co-op opportunities, ensuring that students gain valuable real-world training in high-demand fields.
“The role of Gadsden State’s Workforce Development programs is crucial in meeting the needs of local industries and businesses,” he said. “We provide industry-specific training that ensures students are equipped with relevant skills to thrive in today’s job market. By strengthening our connections with local employers, we can build a skilled workforce that drives economic growth in the region."
Robertson said an important focus for him is on overcoming workforce development challenges in the region, such as skills gaps, labor shortages and access to training.
“I plan to expand flexible learning options like evening and online courses to make workforce training more accessible to a wider audience,” he said. “We will continue working closely with employers to identify skill gaps and develop targeted programs to bridge them, ensuring that students graduate with the skills employers are looking for.”
Robertson’s efforts during his decade at Gadsden State have not gone unnoticed. He was awarded the Chancellor’s Award for Administration in 2024 and the Eugene Prater Exceptional Achievement in Teaching Award in 2019. He is also a graduate of the Faculty Development Institute, the Gadsden State Leadership Academy and Leadership Calhoun County. Business Alabama magazine recognized Robertson in its July 2024 edition in the “Movers and Shapers” spotlight.
Now, Robertson plans to earn more recognition for the College through partnerships and workforce development efforts.
“By partnering with Gadsden State, businesses can create a skilled talent pipeline, upskill and retain existing employees and help strengthen the local economy,” he said. “Let’s work together to build the workforce of tomorrow, today.”
For more information on the Workforce Development Division at Gadsden State, visit GadsdenState.edu/Technical.
Andy Robertson, dean of Workforce Development at Gadsden State Community College
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