Clover Park Technical College‘s Board of Trustees has announced Dr. Lonnie L. Howard has been offered the position to become the school’s next president. The decision completes an eight-month process to replace Dr. John Walstrum, who has served as president for the past seven years and will retire in September.

Howard, who currently lives in Houston, Texas, most recently served as the executive director of the School of Continuing and Professional Studies at the University of Houston. Howard began his career in higher education as faculty and department chair. He has also served as an academic researcher, educational consultant and associate vice president of instruction. He earned an Associates of Applied Sciences in Welding Technology from San Jacinto College, an Associate of General Studies from Houston Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Technology and Industrial Studies and a Master of Science in Occupational Technology from the University of Houston, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration (with dual concentrations in Community College Leadership as well as Sociology) from the University of Texas at Austin.

“I believe that Dr. Howard will take this college to the next level,” said Clover Park Technical College board member Mark Martinez. “It’s a great college, but I think he will take the college even further.”

“I would like to thank the Board of Trustees for having the confidence in my ability to lead Clover Park Technical College,” said Howard. “With its dedicated faculty, friendly staff, eager students, and supportive local community, I’m delighted to become a part of this wonderful team. Lastly, I would like to congratulate Dr. Walstrum on his retirement.”

Clover Park Technical College offers more than 45 career training degree and certificate programs in the areas of aerospace and advanced manufacturing, business, engineering, health sciences, hospitality, human services, science, technology, trades and transportation. The college also offers certification, online and distance learning, high school equivalency programs and continuing education courses.

More information is available online at cptc.edu.