Student Engagement and Program Coach

Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) offers career‑training programs in numerous technical, industrial and medical fields at a reasonable cost, going so far as to even waive tuition for certain eligible students. Located in Richlands, Virginia, Southwest offers associate’s degrees in such fields as business, education, general studies, liberal arts and science. These degrees are primarily intended for students who wish to transfer to a four‑year university.

Southwest also has associate degrees that feature programs intended to lead directly to a career in fields such as Nursing, Radiography and Administration of Justice.

Southwest Virginia Community College invites applications for a full‑time Student Engagement and Program Coach to support an ARC POWER Grant‑funded workforce training initiative. This position plays a vital role in preparing students for high‑demand careers by combining student support, employer engagement, and program coordination.

The Student Engagement and Program Coach will support the implementation of a workforce training program designed to prepare and certify students as skilled technicians for in‑demand occupations. This role is centered on student success, retention, and completion, providing individualized coaching, academic support, and career guidance throughout the training process.

The Coach will also lead student engagement initiatives, assist with recruitment, collaborate with faculty, and serve as a liaison between students and campus support services. By working closely with employers and community partners, this position ensures students are well‑prepared to transition into the workforce with confidence and competence.

• Assist with student recruitment efforts, including outreach to prospective students, community groups, and workforce partners
• Participate in events, informational sessions, and career fairs to promote program opportunities
• Support enrollment and onboarding processes for new students for both credit and non‑credit program and course opportunities

• Provide individualized coaching to support student persistence, retention, and completion
• Develop and implement engagement strategies to keep students motivated and connected
• Monitor student progress and proactively address barriers to success
• Facilitate workshops on study skills, time management, and career readiness

• Collaborate with faculty to support student learning and academic success
• Assist in coordinating training schedules, student communications, and program logistics
• Identify trends in student performance and provide feedback to program leadership

• Support relationships with employers to align training with workforce needs
• Coordinate student exposure to employers through site visits, guest speakers, and job placement activities
• Assist with work‑based learning opportunities such as internships or apprenticeships

• Serve as liaison between students and campus support services, including advising, tutoring, financial aid, and career services
• Ensure students are connected to resources that support academic and personal success

This is a restricted position. Continued employment in this role is contingent upon funding availability and the needs of the College. Position is not eligible for severance benefits under state policy. Grant term is three (3) years. Position is located on main campus but will occasionally require travel to off‑campus sites. A one‑year probationary period is required for both new hires and transfers.

May be required to perform other duties as assigned. May be required to assist the agency or state government generally in the event of an emergency declaration by the Governor.

• Associate’s degree in a related field
• Experience in student support services, advising, coaching, workforce training or related field
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to work effectively with diverse student populations and community stakeholders