Two Aiken Technical College (Aiken Tech) employees have recently completed and graduated from the SC Technical College System’s (Tech System) Leadership Academy.

Nikasha N. Dicks, director of marketing and communications, and Katherine Redd, talent and organizational development manager, were among more than 30 participants nominated and selected by Tech System college presidents for the intensive professional development program. The program, held biennially, is designed for mid-level managers who have demonstrated potential for future advancement into executive leadership roles.

The graduate-level curriculum is based on the American Association of Community Colleges’ Competencies for Community College Leaders and current trends and issues in higher education and workforce development.

During the seven-month program, each session explored leadership topics such as institutional and cultural awareness, student success and advocacy, communication skills, partnership and collaboration development, and institutional, state, and federal policy and governance. Participants also completed group projects exploring innovative opportunities in the Tech System.