Dr. Ackley has served in leadership roles at NTC for more than 15 years, most recently serving as the Provost & Vice President for Learning. Previously, Ackley served as the College’s Dean of the School of Applied Technology & Engineering and the Associate Dean of the Technical & Trades division. Before coming to NTC, Ackley was a math teacher and served in the U.S. Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom. In his new role, Ackley will support College-wide coordination and operational alignment across divisions and provide oversight to Institutional Research + Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) initiatives.

“As the higher education landscape continues to change, we have been well positioned to navigate those changes because of the work we have done together to remain data-informed, strategic and forward-looking,” said Dr. Jeannie Worden, President of NTC. “This planned leadership transition is designed to further strengthen College-wide operations and leadership.”

Additionally, Dr. Emily Stuckenbruck, currently Vice Provost, will assume the role of Provost & Vice President for Learning. Over the past five years, Stuckenbruck has played a central role in academic leadership at the College and brings deep experience, strong relationships and a clear commitment to academic quality, faculty success and student achievement.

“These changes are being implemented together intentionally,” President Worden said. “They reflect our confidence in internal leadership and our commitment to responsible leader development and bench strength.

“These appointments ensure uninterrupted academic decision-making, with academic authority remaining fully vested in the Vice President for Learning. They strengthen both academic leadership and College-wide operations while positioning the College for long-term success.”

Both Ackley and Stuckenbruck will assume their new roles effective February 2, 2026.