Director of Great Lakes Water Studies Institute

The director of GLWSI embodies the college's commitment to leading, managing and implementation of the distinctive marine technology and water related programs, including the academic programs, professional development and workforce training programs, applied research and international programming commitment leading the development and implementation of distinctive  water related academic pathways and workforce training  programs .  The director serves as the academic chair of the department and is expected to teach a limited number of courses (ranging from 8-12 contact hours within the academic year) within the marine technology program.  The director  serves as a focal point for professional and community engagement within the broad theme of water and marine related industries and sets the strategic direction of the GLWSI.  ,. The director represents NMC in professional and academic communities, business and industry, and participates in collaborative research projects throughout the Great Lakes and abroad.

The Great Lakes Water Studies Institute (GLWSI) was established in 2003 to represent NMC’s commitment to understanding and stewardship of the world’s freshwater resources.  Since then, the GLWSI has grown into one of NMC’s distinctive programs and includes a unique industry aligned BSMT Marine Technology, two-year degree options in marine technology and water environmental quality testing, a freshwater transfer degree, a collaborative international  programs, and professional workforce training.  In addition, the GLWSI is poised to be the primary educational provider at the Freshwater Research and Innovation Center, a 40,000 sq ft state-of-the art facility scheduled to open in the Spring 2027 on Grand Traverse Bay.  

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in engineering, oceanography, or related field  (Required)

• Technical specialization within a marine related field (i.e. hydrographic survey, oceanography GIS cartography, water quality analytics) (Required)

• 5-10 years of related experience (such as hydrographic survey, oceanography GIS cartography, water quality analytics, or teaching experience) (Required)

• Valid, unrestricted Driver's License or ability to obtain by start date (Required)

(Critical)  Guides initiatives that fulfill the vision of GLWSI,particularly those that emphasize partnership based approaches toward research projects, technology transfer and economic development activities, technology training, workforce development and professional development opportunities.

(Critical) Provides vision for NMC’s role at the Freshwater Research and Innovation Center as it pertains to workforce development, academic training, innovation and research opportunities.  May serve on the board of directors for the Freshwater Research and Innovation Center. 

(Critical) Participates in and develops research and academic opportunities for better access to advanced technology and research experiences for learners. Collaborates with other institutions of higher learning for improved academic pathways and development of research and grant proposals.

   (Critical) Facilitates the activities of the GWLSI to reflect NMC’s strategic priorities applicable to the business of water in the broadest sense, the interests of community stakeholders, and the Institute's role in regional, national, and global conversations on water.

    (Critical) Participates as a member of the Strategic Initiatives management team and collaborates with academic matters related to ESIMT.

   (Critical) Represents Northwestern Michigan College in marine and water related conferences and meetings locally, regionally and globally. Actively participates in advisory boards and national committees in industry sectors relevant to programming.

  (Critical) Administrative oversight of the Water Analysis Laboratory, Marine Technology Laboratory, Freshwater Research and Innovation Center office and classroom space, multiple marine assets including research vessels (Northwestern and Hawkowl) and NMC harbor utilization.

  (Critical) Leads the identification and development of a financial base appropriate to support of program operations including work with NMC units and external partners in resource development, fundraising, and grant writing.
 (Critical) Teach a range of 8-12 contact hours of courses in the BSMT Marine Technology program employing a range of suitable strategies to foster student learning, stimulate class discussions and encourage active learning in all students, maintain proper class-related records, and promptly assess student coursework and apprise students of progress.

(Critical) Manage academic program needs, including enrollment management strategies, class development, faculty professional development, adjunct hiring and class scheduling in support of associate degree programs in Freshwater Studies, Marine Technology and bachelor’s degree programs including the BSMT Marine Technology.

(Critical) Establish and supervise student internships, in collaboration with the college’s Workforce Development Director, , apprenticeships, and applied projects as required for successful completion of credentials.

(Critical) Supervises others in accordance with NMC's policies and applicable laws.

Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding, recognizing employees; addressing performance problems or gaps.

(Critical) Prepares and manages the department’s budget, and ensures department budget planning and business plan development efficiently utilize the financial resources of the College and promote innovation in the department.

(Critical) Emphasize international partnerships by establishing opportunities for field experiences and student/faculty/staff exchanges in support of NMC’s strategic directions. Coordinates water studies joint curriculum and collaborates in the identification and preparation of instructors in accordance with YRCTI MOU or other opportunities.