Riverland Community College has named Matt Bissonette has the new dean of workforce education.

A Stewartville native, Bissonette brings private sector experience that includes Walt Disney, Jostens, Georgia Pacific, the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, and Bethel University, as well as his own consulting practice working with executives and organizations. Bissonette’s education background started with a bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Iowa. Later he received his master’s degree in Transformational Leadership from Bethel Seminary and a Post-Secondary Teaching Certificate from Bethel University.

Bissonette was hired by Riverland in August 2012 as the director of training and development and transitioned into his role as dean in late March. Aside from his duties as an academic dean of the workforce programs, Bissonette will continue to supervise Riverland’s Training and Development division.

Bissonette’s main office will be at the Albert Lea Campus, but he will work closely with all faculty and staff at all three campus locations including Owatonna and Austin.

“We are excited to have Matt as part of our academic team,” said Mary Davenport, interim vice president of academic and student affairs. “As a college on the move with exciting programs and new program development, Riverland is a key partner in meeting the area’s workforce needs and growing the region’s economy. Matt’s experience with the private and nonprofit sectors brings fresh collaboration skills that will strengthen and build Riverland's relationships with business and industry.”