The Opportunity

The Montana University System leadership and the Montana Technological University Search Advisory Committee invite applications and nominations for the position of Chancellor. The search advisory committee seeks to identify an inspired, transformational leader committed to carrying forward the university’s Special Focus as a science and engineering institution. The Chancellor will provide stable, thoughtful leadership, serving as the trusted voice and vision of Montana Tech for the long-term and working effectively as part of the Montana University System. The successful candidate will follow the distinguished leadership of Dr. Les Cook, who has served Montana Tech since 2019.

Established in 1900 as the Montana State School of Mines, Montana Tech is comprised of the College of Letters, Sciences & Professional Studies, the Lance College of Mines & Engineering, Highlands College, and the Graduate School. An accomplished faculty and staff serve a population of 2,300 undergraduate and graduate students. Montana Tech’s fiscal year 2024 budget totaled $74 million. The current unrestricted totaled $29.1 million consisting of $16.9 million in state appropriation and millage and $11.2 million in tuition and fees. Other funds include $23.6 million restricted (with $16 million research related), and $7.6 million plant funds. The remainder comes from designated and auxiliary funds.

The Montana Tech Orediggers compete in six intercollegiate sports as members of the NAIA Frontier Conference. Montana Tech is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

This is an exciting opportunity for an inspiring, innovative leader to build on the strengths of Montana Tech and help the University take its place as a premier science, technology, engineering, and mathematics institution in the nation. The Chancellor is expected to be a strong team leader and fair team player for the University. In keeping with the Montana Tech mission, the Chancellor will be a vocal, vigorous advocate, working on behalf of the University. Leadership will support the University’s strategic plan addresses student success, programs of distinction, and a healthy and vibrant campus ecosystem.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

Leadership experience in higher education or comparable executive experience in a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) field or industry is required. A Ph.D. or terminal degree is preferred but not required. Experience at a special focus STEM institution of higher education is also preferred but not required. Most important is an outstanding record of leadership, which can come from the academic world, private industry, or both.

ABOUT MONTANA TECH

Opening in 1900 as the Montana State School of Mines, Montana Tech’s funding and land came from the Enabling Act of 1889, which admitted Montana to the Union and allocated 100,000 acres of public land to establish a state school of mines. The School of Mines opened its doors with only one building, Main Hall, which held 21 students and offered two degrees: mining engineering and electrical engineering.

Today, Montana Technological University is one of the leading Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) institutions in the Rocky Mountain West. The University was founded to help fill the growing need for resource managers and engineers. It has stayed true to that objective throughout its long history and has evolved into a dynamic institution that connects focused students to a network of people, opportunities, and experiences that empower them to change the world.

Along with world-class offerings in resource engineering, Montana Tech offers programs in other areas of engineering, the sciences, nursing, mathematics, computation, health, and business. They offer certificate programs, associate, bachelor, and master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees in Materials Science and Earth Science & Engineering. Highlands College of Montana Tech offers career-ready and transfer programs which includes automotive technology, civil engineering technology, construction technology – carpentry, computer networks and cybersecurity, pre-apprentice line program, radiologic technology, web development and administration, and welding technology.

NOMINATIONS AND APPLICATION PROCESS

COMPENSATION

Salary will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications should be received by February 21, 2025, to ensure the best consideration. The application should include a two to four-page letter of interest specifically addressing the applicant’s background in relationship to the expectations described; a current resume or curriculum vitae; and the names of at least five professional references with each person’s position, office or home address, e-mail address, and telephone numbers. References will not be contacted without prior authorization from the applicant. The new Chancellor will assume office by or before July 2025.

The Chancellor of Montana Technological University reports to the president of the University of Montana, Seth Bodnar. The search is being assisted by Greenwood Asher & Associates:

Jim Johnsen & Maggie Mayes with Greenwood Asher & Associates® are assisting Montana Tech in this search. Applications and nominations are now being accepted. Inquiries, nominations, and application materials should be directed to Greenwood Asher & Associates. We strongly encourage submitting application materials as PDF attachments. The search will be conducted with a commitment to confidentiality for candidates until finalists are selected. Initial screening of applications will begin immediately and continue until an appointment is made.

Montana Technological University is committed to providing a working and learning environment free from discrimination. As such, the University does not discriminate in the admission, access to or conduct of its educational programs and activities nor in its employment policies and practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, creed, service in the uniformed services (as defined in state and federal law), veteran status, gender, age, political beliefs, marital or family status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation or preference. In support of the University’s mission to be inclusive and diverse, applications from qualified minorities, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities are highly encouraged. Montana Technological University makes accommodation for any known disability that may interfere with an applicant’s ability to compete in the hiring process or an employee’s ability to perform the duties of the job. To request an accommodation, contact Cathy Isakson 406-496-4380; cisakson@mtech.edu.