Director of the Auto Diesel Institute

About the Role

Baker College is honored as one of the 2024, 2025 & 2026 Best and Brightest Workplaces in West Michigan, Metro Detroit & Nationally. The Director of the Auto Diesel Institute (ADI) provides dynamic leadership for an innovative, industry-focused learning environment dedicated to preparing students for successful careers in automotive and diesel technology. This role oversees the Institute's academic and operational excellence, ensuring students receive a high-quality educational experience while maintaining compliance with legal, regulatory, and accrediting standards. As a key leader and ambassador for ADI, the Director builds and strengthens partnerships with industry, businesses, and community stakeholders to expand opportunities for students and support the evolving needs of the automotive and diesel workforce. The Director also oversees inventory, facilities, and day-to-day operations while identifying new opportunities to engage industry partners and promote the value of quality technical education. This is an exciting opportunity for a forward-thinking leader who is passionate about workforce development, industry collaboration, and helping students launch rewarding careers. At ADI, we don't just teach the trade, we prove that Greatness is Earned Here!

Responsibilities

• Lead facilities operations, oversee staff and contractors, manage budgets and service partnerships, and guide maintenance, renovations, and campus improvements
• Ensure ADI facilities are well-maintained, compliant with MIOSHA and OSHA standards, and equipped to support an exceptional student experience

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Business, Management, Information Technology, or a related discipline required; bachelor's degree preferred
• Experience in the automotive/diesel industry required; higher education experience preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Exceptional customer service and ability to effectively present to diverse audiences
• Experience designing and implementing educational programs
• Experience building collaborative teams and fostering positive, inclusive work environments
• Strong computer skills, initiative, flexibility, and problem-solving abilities
• Demonstrated commitment to teaching, learning, high academic standards, and student success
• Transparent, approachable, and thoughtful leader who builds strong relationships and works effectively with diverse students, faculty, administrators, industry partners, community members, and other stakeholders

About Baker College

Founded in 1911, Baker College is committed to embracing technology, sparking innovation, and fostering a supportive learning environment where students can get the real-world knowledge, skills, and experiences they need to pursue the life and career they want. Each of our campus locations is special, with a unique culture, collection of academic programs, and landscape. Baker College is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campuses across Michigan and online. Our student-first philosophy is the cornerstone of our institution. It is our compass, guiding us and keeping us on course to ensure our students have every opportunity to work hard, grow, and succeed. Because at Baker College, Greatness is Earned Here!