A qualitative study of the job challenges of instructional deans in the technical college system of Georgia

The Technical College System of Georgia serves the people and the state by creating a system of technical education whose purpose is to use the latest technology and easy access for all adult Georgians and corporate citizens. Within each technical college is a hierarchy of faculty, staff, and administrators. The instructional deans serve a vital role at the middle management level. The purpose of this study was to understand the lived experiences associated with instructional deanship in the Technical College System of Georgia. This study explored the technical college deans' background, role, challenges encountered, skill sets deemed to be important, and preparation for the role as dean. The overarching themes identified are the lived experiences of the instructional deans, the challenges they face, and the strategies they have employed to deal with the challenges associated with their position. The information gleaned from this study may lead technical college deans to a greater understanding of the job expectations, managerial practices that better prepare them for a leadership role in their college, and strategies for responding to job associated stress.