Fall 2025 Workforce Learning Series

Meet the Instructors

Learn about the industry professionals that will be teaching for this special series!

Register by August 21st! Classes start October 14th.

Dr. Andrea A. Francis - Department Quality Analyst, City of Austin

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Instructor for CTE 3313P.R04 : Project Management

Dr. Andrea A. Francis brings over 20 years of real-world experience in project management, quality systems, and organizational strategy to her role as a lecturer. She currently serves as a Department Quality Analyst for the City of Austin, where she leads cross-functional initiatives, drives process improvements, and uses data analytics to enhance operational outcomes. Her practical experience in public service and organizational leadership informs every aspect of her teaching.

Dr. Francis holds a Doctor of Business Administration in Strategy and Innovation, an Executive MBA, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. In addition, she is certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP), Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Certified Scrum Master, and Data Analytics Professional.

Beyond her professional work, Dr. Francis is actively involved in her Round Rock, Texas, community, serving on a school board, supporting local outreach programs, and leading international mission projects in East Africa, focusing on education, maternity health care access, and clean water in hard-to-reach communities.

Eric Byrd, M.Ed - Consultant, Public Speaker, and Life Coach

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Instructor for CTE 3370.R04: Intro to Leadership

Eric Byrd is a nonprofit executive and policy strategist with over 20 years of experience in leadership development, civic engagement, and systems-level change. 

He has led several professional alliances and working groups, implementing strategic initiatives to elevate professionals through mentorship, economic opportunity, and cross-sector collaboration. Eric previously served as Chief of Staff for the Austin City Council District 1 Office and has managed several successful political campaigns across Central Texas. 

His leadership portfolio includes leading multiple nonprofit boards focused on education, the arts, housing, and fatherhood initiatives. He holds a Master’s degree in Education with a specialization in behavioral analysis and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Eric is committed to cultivating the next generation of leaders and brings a strong foundation in community-focused leadership, public policy, and social empowerment to his work.

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