Lester Burkes

Dean of Automotive and Trades at Clover Park Technical College

Biography

Lester Burkes is Dean of Automotive and Trades at Clover Park Technical College and a longtime advocate for workforce education. He oversees multiple hands-on training programs that connect students directly to high-wage, in-demand careers across the skilled trades.

Known for his collaborative leadership style and strong industry partnerships, Lester focuses on expanding access, modernizing facilities, and creating pathways for women and underrepresented learners to succeed in technical fields. He believes the trades change lives and is passionate about building systems that help every student see themselves in these careers