North Georgia Technical College has named Leslie McFarlin as the school’s new vice president of economic development.
McFarlin, of Carnesville, has served as dean of academic affairs for the industrial technology, transportation, and public service programs at NGTC since 2018. She has been employed by the college since 2007, serving in various roles as a math instructor, Quality Enhancement Plan coordinator, and academic dean of general education, learning support, and personal services.
In 2013, McFarlin was awarded the Technical College System of Georgia’s Rick Perkins Award for Excellence in Technical Instruction for NGTC and was the state runner-up for the entire college system.
McFarlin earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Emmanuel College and a master’s degree in education from Piedmont College. She is a 2019 graduate of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development and is currently a member of the Franklin County Work Base Learning Advisory Committee.
Pointing to McFarlin’s “long history” at North Georgia Tech as a teacher and dean, NGTC President John Wilkinson says her experience will be vital to helping area businesses and industries fulfill their workforce training demands.
“Her expertise in this area will help our college partner with companies to develop new ways to meet the growing needs of our community workforce trends,” he says.
In her new job, McFarlin will oversee economic development, continuing education noncredit courses, and adult education programs.
She takes over the position from Keith Powell who recently left to spend more time with his family and is now serving as a part-time special assistant to the president.
