Soto brings academic, real-life experience to GTCC’s new public safety administration program
Published on: December 10, 2024
Esteban Soto loves the community college setting. And as he settles into his new position at Guilford Technical Community College, he figures he’s at the right place at the right time.
“I love teaching, especially at the community college level,” said Soto, who will lead GTCC’s new public safety administration program. “I taught at a community college in Texas for two years after I retired and then at a community college in Baltimore for six years. When I looked at this position, I knew it would be a good fit.”
GTCC’s public safety administration curriculum is designed to provide students with knowledge and skills in the technical, managerial, and administrative areas necessary for entrance or advancement within various public safety and government organizations.
Soto brings both an academic and real-life background to his new position. His master’s degree is in public administration. He was a U.S. Marshal for 25 years and worked for the federal government for a total of 30 years. Before coming to GTCC, he was the chief of campus safety and security at the University of Lynchburg in Lynchburg, Va.
There were also some extra perks with relocating to Jamestown where he lives now, he said.
“I love it here,” said Soto, referencing not only life in the Piedmont Triad but the proximity to the mountains. “I like to hike, and that’s what I’ve been doing on the weekends. One of my goals is to drive the entire Blue Ridge Parkway. I’ve done bits and pieces, but I continue to have that goal.”
Before Soto accepted the position at GTCC, he wanted to make sure there would be a demand for the program. “The response from the public safety community let the college know there was a growing need.”
Much of Soto’s time since landing at GTCC has been spent spreading the word about the new public safety management program and recruiting the first cohort of students.
He said the program appeals to two distinct groups: first-time college students planning to transfer to a four-year institution, and working professionals seeking additional credentials and training to advance their careers.
“One of the selling points is it’s an online class. You can take it anytime from anywhere,” Soto said. “Folks that are already in public safety, that are first responders, do not work nine to five. Somebody working at midnight can’t come to class first thing in the morning. However, as long as you have internet and a computer, you can complete this course anywhere.”
Soto said an associate degree in public safety administration opens many avenues of employment.
“With an associate degree you can go to work with fire or police, emergency services management, corrections, or homeland security,” said Soto. “You can actually go to work in any area related to public safety.”