Employee News
College Announces New Basic Skills Leader
RALEIGH, N.C. (December 15, 2025) – Erik Russ is Wake Tech's new dean of College and Career Readiness.
Russ will oversee the college's adult education programs, which empower individuals to enhance their employability skills, complete high school education and begin training for a new career. In addition to High School Equivalency Preparation and Adult High School, the Career and College Readiness Division offers programs such as English as a Second Language, Adult Basic Education for those who need extra support while completing their high school credential, Transitions for provides career training and Pathfinder for adults with intellectual disabilities.
Russ began his Wake Tech career in August 2013 as an adjunct faculty member in Adult Basic Education. In 2016, he transitioned into a full-time position as an advisor and transition team teacher, where he played a key role in supporting students through critical academic and career transitions. His leadership continued to evolve as he became a student success team coordinator in 2019, and, most recently, he has served as director of Advising and Student Success.
"Throughout his tenure, Erik has consistently demonstrated a student-centered approach, a collaborative spirit and a deep understanding of the unique needs of the College and Career Readiness learners," said Monica Gemperlein, associate vice president for Workforce Operations and Assessment. "I am confident that his leadership will continue to strengthen the CCR division and support the college's goal to reach and rally around every student."
Russ has a bachelor's degree in English and Modern European History and a master's degree in English Secondary Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He also has a master's degree in English Literature and is currently pursuing his doctorate in Educational Leadership, Policy and Human Development at North Carolina State University.
To learn more about adult education programs, visit ccr.waketech.edu.
