Jason Harrison

I have dedicated my career to creating connections between education, industry, and government to address the evolving needs of the workforce. Before coming to Goshen College, I worked extensively in workforce development, building partnerships that spanned manufacturing, financial services, and nonprofit sectors.

My experience includes launching large-scale initiatives such as Manufacturing Days for high school students, developing youth and adult apprenticeship pathways, and facilitating programs for employers across Northern Indiana. Throughout this work, I discovered the power of convening—bringing together employers, educators, and civic leaders to co-design innovative learning opportunities that not only strengthen local economies but also expand access to meaningful careers. These collaborations have shaped my teaching and scholarship at Goshen, where I focus on applied, experiential learning that prepares students to thrive in complex professional environments.

At Goshen College, I teach a range of courses including operations management, process innovation, applied learning, and leadership development. Each class emphasizes reflection, career integration, and real-world problem solving. My students regularly engage with local employers through employment, field trips, and experiences, making the classroom a bridge to the community.

I often return to a central conviction that shapes my teaching philosophy: “Learning is a voluntary act. I see my job as cultivating a space for others to ‘opt-in’ and be transformed.” Whether mentoring college students, advising industry partners, or facilitating regional leadership programs, I am committed to creating environments where growth and transformation can take root. For me, Goshen College’s mission of cultivating joy, growth, and purpose resonates deeply. I see my work as equipping students and community partners alike to discover their gifts, connect their learning to practice, and help shape a future marked by innovation, collaboration, and hope.