Meet Dr. Corey Isbell - Our New College President

Fort Hays Tech Northwest is excited to welcome Dr. Corey Isbell as its new president, bringing with him more than a decade of leadership experience and a genuine understanding of small-town Kansas life.

Dr. Isbell joins us after 13 years at North Central Kansas Technical College in Beloit, where he served as Dean of Instruction before becoming Vice President of Student & Instructional Services. His background includes overseeing academic and student services, securing federal and state grants, and strengthening technical education programs. He’s worked closely with diesel, welding, automotive, and other hands-on programs — making him well-prepared to support our students and faculty.

“I love that in this role you never stop learning,” Dr. Isbell says. “The community and the college have already been so welcoming, and I’m looking forward to building connections here.”

A President Who Understands Small-Town Life

Raised in rural Kansas, Dr. Isbell isn’t just bringing professional experience — he’s bringing a lifestyle that resonates with our community. He and his family are in the process of relocating from the country, and they hope to find a rural home here.

His high school junior son loves animals and mechanics, having been active in 4-H and showing livestock. His two daughters, one in high school and one in junior high, are active in volleyball, basketball, and track.

In true small-town style, the Isbell family has been known to bring home everything from mini donkeys to pigs — and Dr. Isbell jokes that he wouldn’t be surprised to see the same happen here once they’re settled.

A Busy Start to the Year

Dr. Isbell steps into his role as faculty are returning from summer break. While not every position is filled yet, the college is ready for the school year — including a diesel program that’s expecting about 70 students.

The diesel facility remains one of the busiest on campus, boasting the only in-ground dynamometer between Denver and Salina. Local farmers and alumni often bring in tractors and semis for students to work on, creating valuable real-world learning opportunities.

Come Meet Dr. Isbell and His Family

The community is invited to welcome Dr. Isbell in person at a Meet & Greet:

📅 Monday, August 18🕔 5:00 – 7:00 PM📍 Price Convention Center

This is your chance to get to know our new president, hear about his vision for the college, and make him and his family feel right at home. As one community member put it:

“We’re lucky to find a leader who understands technical education and small-town Kansas. That’s not always easy in a national search, and we’re excited for what’s ahead.”

Whether you’re a student, alum, local resident, or future partner, we hope you’ll stop by, say hello, and be part of this exciting new chapter for the college.