Director of Workforce, David Ferguson
Clark State College has named David Ferguson as its new director of workforce, bringing to the role more than three decades of leadership experience in global talent acquisition, workforce strategy and organizational development.
Ferguson most recently served as director of global talent acquisition for Henny Penny Corporation where he led efforts to attract and retain top talent worldwide. His career includes senior leadership positions with some of the nation’s most recognizable organizations including USAA, Bon Secours Mercy Health, The Wendy’s Company, Google and General Electric. He has designed and executed workforce strategies for Fortune 500 companies, multi-state healthcare systems and global brands—always with an emphasis on building pipelines of skilled professionals and advancing diversity and inclusion.
In his new position at Clark State, Ferguson will cultivate strategic partnerships with regional employers, industry leaders and community organizations to create, coordinate and deliver customized skills training—both for professional development and for-credit academic programs.
“David’s career is a testament to his ability to connect talent with opportunity,” said Jo Alice Blondin, Ph.D., president of Clark State College. “His proven track record in building high-performing teams, coupled with his dedication to military and veteran career pathways, will strengthen our mission to prepare students for in-demand careers and support the workforce needs of our region.”
A U.S. Army veteran, Ferguson served for four years as an Active Duty Army Officer and an additional six years as an Officer in the Ohio Army National Guard, where he honed his leadership and operational expertise. He earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in the top five percent of his class, and a master’s degree in business from Xavier University.
“I’ve spent my entire career helping organizations identify, attract and develop great people,” Ferguson said. “At Clark State, I have the opportunity to bring that passion to a mission that directly impacts our students, our businesses and our community. We’re building programs that don’t just respond to workforce needs—they anticipate them.”
Ferguson also emphasized the importance of collaboration.
“By working together with employers, educators and community partners, we can create training solutions that open doors for individuals and strengthen the economic future of our region.”
Clark State College’s workforce division provides innovative training solutions tailored to the needs of business and industry, from customized corporate training to career-focused certificate programs. Ferguson’s appointment marks a new chapter in expanding these services to meet the evolving demands of today’s labor market.