TechForce Foundation has appointed Jennifer Bergeron as its first chief growth officer. Alongside Bergeron’s appointment, TechForce also welcomed Dave Smith, Bill Willetts, and Matt Hartford to its Board of Directors. These appointments follow a recent announcement by TechForce highlighting increasing public interest in high-tech, hands-on skilled trades careers.
Angie Babin, chair of the TechForce Foundation Board of Directors, expressed optimism about the organization’s future. “This is a time of exciting growth for TechForce Foundation,” she said. “With new talent joining the team, new programs like Grab the Wheel and Techs Rock Awards being launched, and increased public receptivity towards our message, the future is bright for TechForce Foundation.”
Bergeron brings over two decades of experience in technical education and organizational management. Her skills in strategic planning and team leadership were developed during her 13-year stint as the campus president of NASCAR Technical Institute in Mooresville, NC.
“Jennifer Bergeron will work with TechForce staff and our Board of Directors to develop and implement strategies that will catapult the organization to new heights,” said Jennifer Maher, executive director of TechForce Foundation. “She brings a wealth of knowledge, is very committed to and passionate about TechForce’s work to support the next generation of technicians, and is excited about helping this mission and nonprofit thrive.”
The foundation said the three new board members add over 90 years of combined industry experience to TechForce. Dave Smith, principal at DGS Group, LLC, has 24 years of experience with Enterprise Rent-A-Car, including eight years as vice president of strategic solutions, and a recent role as senior vice president, supply chain strategy at Caliber Collision.
Bill Willetts, vice president of Snap-on Industrial, has been with the company since 1994, starting as a sales rep. He also brings non-profit experience from his time as chairman of the board of NC SkillsUSA and is a current member of the Aircraft Maintenance Council.
Matt Hartford, president and CEO of Total Seal Piston Rings, joined the company as lead engineer in 1998 and has owned an automotive speed shop. He began a drag racing career in 1988 and currently competes in the NHRA PRO STOCK category.
