Roane State Community College has officially announced the creation of its fifth academic unit, the Applied and Innovative Technology Division, designed to drive academic innovation and meet growing regional workforce demands. Tenured educator Dr. Sylvia Pastor has been named the division’s founding dean.

The new division joins Health Sciences, Humanities, Mathematics and Sciences, and Social Science, Business, and Education. It will focus heavily on strengthening community and industry partnerships to prepare students for high-demand careers, particularly amidst the region’s expanding nuclear sector.

Key Details & Program Offerings

• Relocated Programs: Computer science, nuclear technology, chemical engineering technology, mechatronics, project management, and environmental health technology will transition into the new division.

• New Aerospace Pathway: An all-new aerospace option is set to be incorporated into the curriculum soon, with further details expected shortly.

• Headquarters: Dr. Pastor’s office will be located at the Oak Ridge Campus, which serves as the hub for several of the division’s core programs.

Veteran Leadership

Dr. Pastor brings a decade of experience at Roane State to the inaugural role, having previously served as an interim program director, coordinator for the Lab-in-a-Box program, and faculty member.

“Dr. Pastor’s experience, innovative leadership, and commitment to student success make her exceptionally well suited to lead this new division as we expand opportunities for our students and strengthen our workforce partnerships,” said Dr. Diane Ward, Chief Academic Officer and Vice President for Student Learning.

An accomplished educator, Dr. Pastor holds a doctorate in analytical chemistry from the University of California. Her accolades include being named Tennessee’s Science Teacher of the Year in 2018 and receiving Roane State’s Sarah Ellen Benroth Award for Outstanding Teaching in 2021.

“This new division will sit at the intersection of education, innovation, and workforce development,” Dr. Pastor stated. “Roane State has an astonishing opportunity to play a pivotal role in preparing our region for the nuclear renaissance, and I’m eager to contribute to that effort.”

Enrollment Information

• Learn More: Explore the new division at roanestate.edu/ait or view all programs at roanestate.edu/academicprograms.

• Fall 2026 Term: Classes begin August 19. Prospective students can submit a free application at roanestate.edu/apply.