Dr. Holly Smith Joins Reach University's NCAD as VP of Apprenticeship Degree Design

Dr. Holly Smith, a seasoned higher education leader, joins Reach University's National Center for the Apprenticeship Degree (NCAD) as Vice President of Apprenticeship Degree Design. Dr. Smith has a rich background in building partnerships between community colleges, university systems, industry partners, and community and government agencies, driving educational innovation and workforce development.

Dr. Smith holds a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership and an Ed.S. in Community College Teaching and Administration. Throughout her career, she has successfully led teams in developing educational programs that meet industry standards, with a special emphasis on competency mapping, curriculum design, and strategic planning. Her work is driven by a commitment to promoting access, equity, and inclusion, while integrating digital transformation into modern education models.

What brought you to NCAD?
I was drawn to NCAD because of its innovative, job-embedded degree model that provides accessible, debt-free education while addressing critical workforce needs. NCAD’s vision to transform higher education through employer partnerships and create scalable pathways for students aligns perfectly with my passion for building sustainable education solutions.

Describe your vision for this new role and its impact:
My envisioned impact in this new role is to expand access to Apprenticeship Degrees, enabling students to acquire valuable, in-demand skills while earning credentials. I look forward to collaborating with employers, organizations, and institutions to bridge the gap between education and workforce needs, fostering individual and economic growth.

How can current and future NCAD partners collaborate with you?
I look forward to working with NCAD’s partners to design and implement Apprenticeship Degree programs tailored to specific industry goals. It is my belief that building trust and collaboration requires open communication and a willingness to forge new paths. This approach to partnership will be key to ensuring an innovative and relevant approach to building pathways that provide opportunities for students to gain high-demand, hands-on skills that drive success for both learners and employers.