WACTE honors Chadderdon for exceptional leadership and drive as B&I dean

WACTE has honored Rachel Chadderdon for her exceptional leadership and drive as Casper College’s business and industry dean. Chadderdon was named WACTE Administrator of the Year.

The Wyoming Association for Career and Technical Education selected Chadderdon … “because of her incredible work at Casper College AND within WACTE,” said Megan Garnhart, executive director of WACTE.

The award recognized Chadderdon’s strategic leadership in the college’s programs that prepare students for careers across a range of fields, including business, industry, and workforce development. “With a Master of Business Administration and extensive experience in grant management and program development, she brings a comprehensive understanding of academic administration and workforce education to everything she does,” said Garnhart.

Garnhart went on to note that Chadderdon “ … champions student success, fosters strong relationships with community and industry partners, and works tirelessly to ensure Casper College delivers high-quality, career-focused opportunities for learners across the region.” As dean, Chadderdon has led initiatives that connect students with hands-on learning and industry partnerships, deepening the bridge between education and employment pathways.

“A dedicated advocate for career and technical education across Wyoming, she actively supports the mission of WACTE and works to elevate the visibility and impact of CTE pathways, ensuring students have access to relevant skills and credentials that meet the evolving needs of Wyoming’s workforce,” Garnhart added.

“Rachel is a shining example of the commitment our deans bring to their respective schools on campus,” said President Brandon Kosine, Ph.D. “We see every day what Rachel does for her school and what she brings to the table, but this recognition from WACTE shows that her work extends beyond Casper College and reaches across the state.”

Chadderdon began her career at Casper College in December 2012 as the Simulation Lab director. In October 2016, she became the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training grant project manager. From October 2018 to June 2019, she served as the college’s organizational developer. On July 1, 2019, she became the training and grants compliance coordinator, and on June 1, 2021, she was named the dean of the Casper College School of Business and Industry.

The Wyoming Association for Career and Technical Education is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing career and technical education across Wyoming. WACTE represents six divisions spanning agriculture, business, family and consumer sciences, health science, skilled trades, and technology education. It hosts an annual summer conference that brings together CTE professionals from across the state.

For a broader look at life on campus and the career-focused pathways championed by academic deans like Chadderdon, check out The College Tour — Casper College. This video provides an excellent overview of the hands-on learning facilities, career-focused learning spaces overseen by the business and industry divisions, and student opportunities available at Casper College.

At a Glance:

• Rachel Chadderdon, Casper College Dean of Business and Industry, named WACTE Administrator of the Year.
• Chadderdon joined Casper College in December 2012; advanced through five strategic roles before becoming dean on June 1, 2021. WACTE represents six statewide divisions in Wyoming career and technical education.