Bio

Dr. Wood most recently served as the sixth president of Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, bringing extensive experience in higher education through leadership roles in recruitment, college preparation and student services at community colleges in Oregon. Before joining Southwest Tech, he also served as executive vice president for student and academic services at Central Wyoming College. Dr. Wood was recently named Vice President of Salt Lake City Technical College.

When he arrived at Southwest Tech, President Wood prioritized meaningful engagement with students, faculty and staff, and immersed himself in hands-on learning experiences and classroom activities. He believes the best leadership begins with listening, learning and walking alongside those he serves, guided by a strong commitment to connection, empathy and shared experience. Under Dr. Wood’s leadership, the college focused on expanding student access, fostering success and ensuring long-term sustainability through innovation. With a culture rooted in transparency, empowerment and accountability, Southwest Tech is dedicated to its mission of improving lives through excellence in learning.

In April 2025, Southwest Tech was awarded the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence – the nation’s highest honor for outstanding achievement and performance in higher education. The college earned this recognition for its exceptional graduation rates, particularly among lower-income students, and for the strong wage outcomes of its graduates, who earn nearly $14,000 more than the regional average within five years. Guided by a mission to “never graduate anyone into poverty,” Southwest Tech demonstrates how a rural college can achieve remarkable results through innovative leadership and a culture of continuous improvement – values championed by Dr. Wood and woven into the fabric of the institution.