Florida SouthWestern State College recently welcomed Dr. Thomas Norman as vice provost for Workforce Programs.

Norman will provide leadership and strategic direction for FSW’s schools of education, health professions, and business and technology and FSW’s corporate training and continuing education programs. In addition, he will provide leadership in aligning collegiate programming with emerging workforce needs in partnership with area businesses and community-based organizations.

“For nearly 60 years, FSW has provided workforce training programs to the Southwest Florida community,” said Dr. Jeff Allbritten, president, FSW. “As our economy and workforce needs change and evolve, especially during the time of COVID-19, FSW must continue to provide the training that is necessary to meet local employers’ needs. We look forward to the expertise and the new programs and certifications Dr. Norman will bring to FSW.”

Norman has a doctorate in education policy and a master’s in public administration. Prior to joining FSW, he was dean of University Extended Education at Minnesota State University. In this role, he was responsible for leading cross-campus program development, labor market analyses, developing and implementing a comprehensive matrix of workforce solutions, as well as working on the university’s accreditation review with the Higher Learning Commission.

Prior to joining MSU, he served as the state director for workforce development in Minnesota, leading statewide programs and activities that served over 300,000 people annually, including a cross-section of state residents (veterans, adults, displaced workers, offenders and youth). His positions prior to this role include the senior director for research, innovations and outreach; the director of continuing professional reduction at the University of Minnesota; and the director/dean of community based services at Dakota County Technical College. 

Florida SouthWestern State College annually serves nearly 22,000 students globally. FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees and professional certifications. Study and travel abroad opportunities are available for students through FSW’s Center for International Education.

Visit www.FSW.edu for more information.