College Hires new Dean for School of Energy

    As the dean of the School of Energy, Wickman will oversee the programs including the Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, Industrial Process Operator, Instrumentation and Controls Technology, Advanced Petroleum Production Operations, Occupational Safety, Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Trucking, and the Tribal Energy Management Institute.  

From San Juan College:

   A principal at Wickman Consulting, LLC, Wickman joins San Juan College following an extensive career in the energy industry. She began as a geologist and a business analysist for Mobil Oil Company, and then assumed the position of president and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Red Willow Production Company.  She also served as the president and COO of the Aka Energy Group and an assistant operations director for the Southern Ute Growth Fund.  

    As the dean of the School of Energy, Wickman will oversee the programs including the Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, Industrial Process Operator, Instrumentation and Controls Technology, Advanced Petroleum Production Operations, Occupational Safety, Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Trucking, and the Tribal Energy Management Institute.  

    “I am excited to be offered the opportunity to join the San Juan College staff,” Wickman said. “I have been extremely impressed with the knowledge, sincerity, and forward-looking energy of everyone I have met on campus, as well as the high quality facilities and programs. I am especially looking forward to working in this dynamic environment, helping students to achieve their educational and career goals and assisting industry partners meet their workforce needs."

    Wickman’s commitment to education is illuminated by her service on the Bayfield School District Board of Education for 10 years, including six years as president. Currently, she is founder and president of the Bayfield Education Foundation, an organization supporting educational opportunities in and around the community.  

    “We are pleased Barbara has accepted the position as she will serve as a great asset to San Juan College and the School of Energy,” said Dr. Barbara Ake, San Juan College vice president for Learning. “Her extensive experience in project management, operations, accounting and broad scope of knowledge in the energy industry will serve the college, our students, community and energy partners well.” 

    Wickman holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from Princeton University, where she graduated with honors. She continued her education, earning a master’s degree in Geology from Texas A&M and an MBA from the University of Denver.  

    “Our top priority at San Juan College is our students’ success,” said Dr. Toni Hopper Pendergrass, president of San Juan College. “Barbara’s extraordinary academic background, knowledge of the industry and commitment to education will enhance and further these initiatives. While our community is currently facing economic challenges, Barbara’s experience is invaluable and will guide and advance the School of Energy to meet the workforce needs of our partners in the energy industry.” 

    In her free time, Barbara enjoys skiing, biking, and camping.  She and her husband John have two adult children.  
    Wickman will begin work at the School of Energy the end of January, and a community meet and greet will be announced at a later date.