Colorado is gearing up for a new chapter in higher education! Governor Polis has just announced JB Holston as the next Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Higher Education. This appointment is a significant move, signaling a focus on aligning education with the demands of today's job market. But what does this really mean for students and the future of Colorado's workforce? Let's dive in.
Holston, with his impressive background in business, civic leadership, and academia, is set to take the reins. He's stepping into the role previously held by Dr. Angie Paccione, whose last day is January 9, 2026. Holston will begin shadowing her on December 15, ensuring a smooth transition.
Governor Polis is clearly enthusiastic about the appointment, emphasizing Holston's experience and vision for the future. He believes Holston will be instrumental in connecting higher education with the evolving needs of the workforce, ensuring students are equipped with the skills needed for high-paying careers. This is a critical point: the goal is to make sure education translates directly into real-world opportunities for students. The Governor's vision includes better connecting Higher Education with the needs of our workforce, ensuring that students who seek higher education leave with the skills needed for high-paying, in-demand careers.
Holston himself is equally enthusiastic, highlighting his commitment to bridging the gap between education and the dynamic needs of the changing workforce. He aims to ensure every student gains the skills and training necessary for in-demand jobs in Colorado's innovative economy. He will be joining Governor Polis’s 21-member cabinet. Holston received a BA and MBA from Stanford University. Holston's experience includes a five-year tenure as Dean of the University of Denver's School of Engineering and Computer Science. He was also involved in the Colorado’s TechHubsNow! Initiative, which led to the State’s designation as one of 31 national Department of Commerce Regional Innovation Hub finalists, co-founded the Colorado Mass Timber Coalition to address the state’s healthy forest and watershed needs, and engaged in important state housing and workforce development initiatives.
Here's where it gets interesting: The announcement also ties into Governor Polis's Executive Order 2025-006. Last week, the Governor, along with legislators, educators, and workforce leaders, unveiled a report outlining recommendations to streamline higher education and workforce development. The aim is to create a 'one-stop shop' for resources, making it easier for learners, job seekers, and employers to connect. This includes clear educational pathways and support for employers. But here is the question: Is streamlining the answer? Does consolidating resources truly benefit everyone, or could it lead to unintended consequences? What do you think?
This initiative aims to create one agency to serve as a one-stop shop to resources for Colorado learners, jobseekers, and employers, outline clear educational pathways, connecting Coloradans to good careers and more opportunities, streamline support for employers to engage with future employees, and strengthen Colorado's workforce and economy.
Let's talk about the implications: What do you think about this new direction for Colorado's higher education system? Do you agree with the focus on workforce development? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
