Academic Director of the Cybersecurity Program

Hesston College, a Christ-centered Mennonite institution, invites applications for the Academic Director of the Cybersecurity Program, an academic leadership role for an educator ready to build something meaningful from the ground up. This is a full-time, benefits eligible position reporting to the vice president of academics. Hesston welcomes candidates from diverse faith backgrounds who can respect and contribute to our Mennonite educational mission; the director teaches a reduced load to support program-building responsibilities.

As part of a grant from the US Department of Education, the director will lead the launch and growth of Hesston's new stand-alone bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity and help shape the Applied Learning Cybersecurity Center, a hands-on hub that will prepare students for careers in cybersecurity and serve as a cybersecurity provider for small and rural organizations across Kansas. This is a rare opportunity to design a program that unites rigorous academic preparation with real-world service to underserved communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead curriculum development, course scheduling and instruction for a bachelor's program spanning both information technology and operational technology security.
• Build partnerships with employers, utilities, schools and local governments to align the program with regional workforce needs.
• Establish and support a program advisory committee, and connect students to internships, certifications and applied projects.
• Teach in the program and collaborate with academic leadership on recruitment, assessment and continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications
Master's degree in cybersecurity, computer science, information systems or a related field; demonstrated knowledge of cybersecurity practices; teaching experience; and alignment with Hesston's mission and values.

Preferred Qualifications
Terminal degree; industry experience in cybersecurity or IT; prior academic program leadership; familiarity with rural workforce development. Industry certifications and work experience may substitute for terminal degree.

To Apply
Applicants should send a letter of interest, résumé (or curriculum vitae) and a completed Hesston College application to joinus@hesston.edu. Hesston College is targeting a start date in early 2027. Application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.