Dr. keith richard

Keith Richard, Ph.D. oversees workforce solutions and innovation for the Colorado Community College System (CCCS). In this role, he leads the System’s  efforts to strengthen alignment between education, workforce development, and economic mobility. He oversees systemwide strategy related to employer and sector partnerships, career and technical education (CTE), credentials of value, work-based learning, workforce data and accountability, and the development of talent pathways that connect learners to high-demand careers across Colorado. The Division of Workforce Solutions and Innovation also serves as CCCS’s primary vehicle for advancing a more integrated, outcomes-driven talent development system that responds to evolving labor market needs and supports long-term student success.

Dr. Richard brings more than 14 years of experience leading cross-sector initiatives spanning education, workforce, and economic development. Prior to joining CCCS, Dr. Richard served as Vice President of Research at the Florida Chamber of Commerce Foundation, where he led a statewide research and impact portfolio and worked closely with business leaders, higher education institutions, and policymakers to translate real-time talent needs into actionable education and workforce strategies. Across his roles, he has led the development of integrated data platforms and dashboards that connect education and workforce outcomes, supporting more transparent, outcomes-driven decision-making for institutions, employers, and learners.

Earlier in his career, he served as Vice Chancellor for Workforce Innovation at the Florida Department of Education, where he led statewide strategy to align CTE programs with workforce demand, strengthen transfer and work-based learning pathways, and expand transparency through large-scale data initiatives. He also founded and led Florida’s Office of CTE Quality and directed the state’s annual CTE Program Performance Audit, a comprehensive review of program offerings across colleges and districts to improve quality, relevance, and outcomes.

Dr. Richard holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Sociology from Florida State University and a B.A. in Psychology from Coastal Carolina University.