Manager, Challenger Learning Centers

Are you someone who strives for excellence, values accountability, provides the best service, all while reflecting unwavering integrity? Our talented team members across the state follow the behaviors, beliefs and outcomes of these core values to ensure that our vision is met. If you're ready to join the TSTC family and make great memories please complete our application process. Job Description The Manager, Challenger Learning Centers is responsible for leading the strategy, operations, and growth of the Challenger Learning Centers at the Waco and Harlingen campuses. This role oversees utilization growth, stakeholder engagement, operational management, and program delivery to ensure high-quality STEM learning experiences that support institutional outreach and student pipeline development. The position leads relaunch and expansion efforts by building K–12 partnerships, driving utilization, managing operational performance, and aligning programming with institutional and educational priorities. This role also serves as the primary liaison to the Challenger Learning Center Network and integrates best practices to support long-term sustainability and growth. Hiring Range is $64,525.03 - $74,203.78 USD Annual. The final salary offer will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications and experience. Equivalent combination of education, training and relevant professional experience will be considered. Essential Functions The employee will demonstrate TSTC’s Core Values of Excellence, Accountability, Service, and Integrity with internal and external stakeholders, customers, students, and community members. Stakeholder Engagement & Partnership Development Develops and maintains relationships with school districts, educators, Education Service Centers, and regional stakeholders to expand engagement and increase utilization of Challenger Learning Center programs. Conducts outreach and engagement efforts to identify opportunities, understand barriers, and strengthen long-term partnerships. Utilization Growth & Pipeline Management Leads utilization growth efforts across both Challenger Learning Center locations by developing and managing outreach strategies, engagement pipelines, and booking processes. Monitors utilization trends, conversion rates, and scheduling effectiveness to support participation goals and operational performance. Program Strategy & Relaunch Execution Develops and implements strategies supporting the relaunch, growth, and ongoing success of Challenger Learning Center operations. Coordinates timelines, engagement strategies, and operational plans aligned with institutional objectives and utilization goals. Partners with marketing teams to support outreach and awareness initiatives. Challenger Network Collaboration Serves as the primary liaison to the Challenger Learning Center Network and related partners. Coordinates participation in training, certification, and collaborative initiatives while integrating best practices and operational standards into local operations. Program Development & Continuous Improvement Coordinates development and refinement of STEM learning experiences aligned with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards and educator expectations. Utilizes feedback and operational data to improve programming, participation, and customer experience. Operations & Experience Management Oversees day-to-day operations across Challenger Learning Center locations, including scheduling, booking coordination, operational workflows, and facility readiness. Ensures a consistent and high-quality experience for students, educators, and visitors. Staff Leadership & Workforce Development Supervises Challenger Learning Center staff across both locations. Establishes expectations, provides coaching and development, and supports staffing models aligned with utilization and operational needs. Budget & Resource Management Develops and manages operational budgets for both centers. Monitors expenditures and aligns resources with utilization goals, operational priorities, and program performance. Data & Performance Management Develops and monitors operational metrics and reporting related to utilization, participation, pipeline activity, and partner retention. Utilizes data and reporting tools to support operational improvements and strategic decision-making. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partners with internal departments including marketing, enrollment, workforce teams, and campus leadership to align outreach, messaging, and engagement strategies with broader institutional priorities. Education & Experience Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in education, business, marketing, or a related field from an accredited college or university, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and directly related professional experience as assessed under TSTC’s established equivalency standards. Five (5) or more years of experience in program management, education leadership, outreach, business development, or related fields. Experience managing complex projects, stakeholder relationships, and operational initiatives across multiple groups or locations. Willingness and ability to travel regularly between campuses. Preferred Qualifications Experience working with K–12 school systems, STEM education programs, or experiential learning environments. Experience supporting launch, turnaround, or growth-focused initiatives. Experience in sales, pipeline development, or customer acquisition activities. Skills & Abilities Ability to develop and manage outreach, utilization, and engagement strategies aligned with operational and institutional goals. Ability to build and maintain strong partnerships with school districts, educators, community organizations, and external stakeholders. Strong operational management skills with the ability to coordinate scheduling, staffing, workflows, and customer experience activities across multiple locations. Ability to analyze operational and participation data to support decision-making and continuous improvement efforts. Strong communication and collaboration skills with the ability to coordinate effectively across departments and stakeholder groups. Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt effectively within a dynamic and evolving environment. Core Competencies Strategic Planning & Execution Develops and implements operational and engagement strategies that support utilization growth and program success. Relationship Management Builds and maintains effective relationships with educators, community stakeholders, and institutional partners. Operational Leadership Oversees operations, staffing, scheduling, and service delivery with a focus on consistency and quality. Data-Informed Decision Making Utilizes operational metrics, reporting, and performance data to guide decisions and improve outcomes. Communication Demonstrates clear, professional, and effective communication across internal and external stakeholder groups. Adaptability & Innovation Responds effectively to changing priorities and identifies opportunities to improve programming, operations, and engagement. Extra Duties Statement This job description outlines the general responsibilities and expectations of the role. It is not intended to include every task or responsibility. Additional duties may be assigned by leadership as needed. Equal Opportunity Employer Texas State Technical College (TSTC), as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination. TSTC is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions. Employment Eligibility Verification If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at TSTC. Background Checks A criminal history background check will be required for the finalist(s) under consideration for this position. TSTC is the only state-supported technical college system in Texas. TSTC's statewide role and mission is to efficiently and effectively help Texas meet the high-tech challenges of today's global economy, in partnership with business and industry, government agencies, and other educational institutions. Don't see a job opening of interest? Introduce Yourself! TSTC publishes the Annual Security Report (ASR), which includes the Annual Fire Safety Report (AFSR), to ensure that essential information about campus safety is readily accessible. This report includes data on crimes and fire incidents from the past three calendar years, outlining safety measures, reporting protocols, and emergency response plans. It also highlights crime prevention programs and support resources available to the campus community. These reports underscore TSTC's commitment to fostering a safe and informed environment for all students, employees, and visitors. For more information, the report is available on the Clery Act Information page of the TSTC website at tstc.edu/cleryact, and physical paper copies can be requested from the TSTC Police Department or by calling View phone number on click.appcast.io .