JIM MURDAUGH

PRESIDENT, TALLAHASSEE STATE COLLEGE, TALLAHASSEE

With about 1,500 employees and nearly 16,000 students, TSC provides post-secondary education for residents of Leon, Gadsden and Wakulla counties, as well as around the state. “Our main focus is offering seamless transfer opportunities and in-demand career and technical training programs,” Murdaugh says.

EDUCATION: Florida State University (BS, MS, Ph.D.)

FIRST JOB: After graduating from FSU, I was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force for a short stint before being transferred into the Reserve. Following that, I landed my first real job as a deputy at Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

DREAM ALTERNATE CAREER: When I was young, I was fascinated with the possibility of becoming an astronaut.

INDUSTRY TREND: Job training and skills development are more needed than ever, and I am glad to see a growing recognition of their importance in society.