BFIT Creates New Division for Adult Learners

June 16, 2021

Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology launched the Division of Professional and Continuing Studies (DPCS) to better serve adult learners and organizations seeking to upskill their workforce.

“This new division will serve an important role in helping to address Greater Boston’s middle skills gap and employee shortage for high-demand technology jobs,” said Dean of Academic Affairs Marvin Loiseau.

The college named Liem Tran to oversee the new division as Assistant Dean of Academics/Director of DPCS. Tran joined BFIT from Wentworth Institute of Technology, where he was the Director of New Program Development. He has over 25 years of experiences in workforce development and nonprofit management. In addition to his professional experience, he serves on several boards and community councils, such as Youth Build of Boston, Japan America Society of Rhode Island, and Eastern Seaboard Apprenticeship Conference.  He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Business from Suffolk University and his Master of Science in Technology Management from Wentworth Institute of Technology. He also completed the Emerging Leaders Program at University of Massachusetts-Boston.

“Liem has an incredible background, and we feel fortunate to have him joining the BFIT team,” said Loiseau.

DPCS will work with corporations, trade unions, industry associations, and community-based organizations to create tailored programs that allow members/employees to learn new skills, achieve specific certifications, or earn a college degree.

The new division will also oversee enrollment programs for individual adult learners who want to advance their career or prepare for a new role in a high-demand technology field. Individuals can register through DPCS for single courses or a short-term certificate program, or enter one of our degree-completion pathways—where they can apply previous college credits or work experience toward a BFIT degree.

Programs will be offered in different delivery models, including online, hybrid, and on-site.

BFIT also hired an additional Student Success Coach to support DPCS students, as well as matriculated students. Wongly Sine joined BFIT from Match Charter Public High School in Boston, where he served as a College and Career Counselor, supporting seniors throughout the college application process.  He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Suffolk University and his Master of Education in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Salem State University.

Visit the DPCS web page to learn more about the new division and its programs.