Eastern Shore Community College announces the new Dean of Workforce Development, Thomas “T.J.” Johnson. Before his appointment, Johnson served as an Assistant Principal with Accomack County Public Schools. Johnson also served as the project manager for Accomack County Public School’s STEM Project and he was selected as a finalist for VASSP’s Assistant Principal of the Year award in 2016.
Since 2008, he has served ESCC as an adjunct instructor of developmental math and adult education. Thomas holds an undergraduate degree in Mathematics, Master’s degree in Education and an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership.

At the top of the list of the new Dean’s agenda, is to vigorously to support ESCC’s Workforce Development Service mission to offer a broad range of high quality, cost effective education and training services to individuals, as well as business, industry, government, and professional organizations in support of economic development and community enrichment.

Johnson states that, “There are many new opportunities for individuals to receive financial aid for specific courses that lead to industry credentials. Additionally, there is grant funding to offset the cost for local business to train incumbent workers seeking new industry credentials.” He encourages community and business partners to contact him directly at Workforce Development Services at ESCC, by calling 757-789-1752 or by email at tjohnson@es.vccs.edu.

A number of fall classes are poised to launch in Workforce Development Services this month.  Two returning offerings both start on September 11^th: Hair Braiding and Weaving, and Food Safety Certification.  A one day Flagger Certification course will be offered on Wednesday, September 13^th.  A popular course that ushers even the most reluctant computer user into the age of technology is the Intro to Computers and Microsoft Office.  This course starts on September 19^th and is followed by more specialized computer related courses like Microsoft Word beginning on October 24^th, and Microsoft Excel on November 7^th.  A Quickbooks Small Accounting course will also launch on November 28th, and Outboard Motor Repair will start on October 11th.

There are other classes currently being finalized in Workforce Development Services including a series of CompTia Certifications, where the Workforce Credentialing Grant (WCG) may be utilized to offset or cover costs. ESCC and WDS also continues their successful partnership with CDS Services in offering CDL Tractor Trailer Training courses.  Graduates of these programs have gone on to gain employment and begin successful careers behind the wheel with both local and regional employers.

Dean Johnson reminds area residents that Workforce Development Services is always interested in hearing about courses that may be sought after, and in turn also teachers that may be available and interested in teaching particular skills and classes at WDS.

Hear an interview with Dean Johnson here.

New Dean of Workforce Development Services, Thomas “T.J.” Johnson