Director of the Carroll Shelby Automotive Institute

Position Summary:

The Director of the Carroll Shelby Automotive Institute provides both academic leadership and entrepreneurial vision for this newly rebranded, stand-alone program within Northeast Texas Community College. The Director oversees faculty, staff, facilities, and accreditation requirements while serving as the primary ambassador of the Institute. This role requires a leader who can honor the legacy of Carroll Shelby while building innovative partnerships, recruiting top students, and creating opportunities that leverage the globally recognized Carroll Shelby name. The Director will drive the Institute’s growth through academic excellence, industry collaboration, and entrepreneurial initiatives that position the Institute as a nationally recognized destination for automotive education and innovation.  

Job Duties:

• Provide strategic leadership to establish the Carroll Shelby Automotive Institute as a nationally recognized, premier automotive education destination
• Recruit, supervise, and mentor faculty, staff, and students to ensure engaging instruction and strong student outcomes
• Oversee curriculum development and innovation, ensuring alignment with college, accreditation, and industry standards.  Areas of focus include vehicle restoration, racing technology, fabrication, performance upgrades, and emerging technologies (EV/Hybrid).
• Supervise the Program Coordinator, who manages shop operations, tool control, safety compliance, and instructional support.
• Build and sustain partnerships with dealerships, manufacturers, restoration shops, racing organizations, aftermarket companies, collectors, and industry leaders.
• Collaborate with the Carroll Shelby Foundation, Shelby Marketing, and national industry stakeholders to expand recognition, support, and resources.
• Lead student recruitment and marketing initiatives in collaboration with NTCC's marketing and student services teams; manage the Institute's website and social media presence.
• Represent the Institute at car shows, motorsports events, industry conferences, and public forums.
• Ensure facilities and equipment are maintained to NATEF/ASE, OSHA, and College risk management standards.
• Develop and manage budgets, grants, sponsorships, and long-term strategies for sustainability.
• Expand opportunities for cooperative education, internships, dual credit, and workforce partnerships.
• Actively participate in NTCC committees, task forces, and official college ceremonies.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Automotive Technology, Business, Marketing, or related field required
• Master's Degree in Automotive Technology, Business, Marketing, or related field preferred
• Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience in automotive, business, or related industries required
• Demonstrated knowledge of Carroll Shelby's legacy and the ability to connect it to modern automotive innovation required
• Proven track record of building partnerships, programs, or entrepreneurial ventures
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and travel as required
• Experience in higher education or technical education leadership preferred
• Established connections in the automotive, racing, or collector car industries preferred
• Fundraising, sponsorship, or event management experience preferred