
El Paso Community College has announced a change in leadership, with Dr. Carlos C. Amaya set to take over as Vice President of Instruction and Workforce Education/Chief Academic Officer, effective February 1, 2026. Dr. Amaya steps into the role following the retirement of Dr. Steven Smith, whose tenure ends on January 31, according to EPCC News.
Expressing his readiness to assume the new responsibilities, Dr. Amaya was quoted, "I am deeply honored and humbled by this appointment, and I am excited to continue serving El Paso Community College in this new role," as per EPCC News. He further pledged to actively engage with EPCC's staff and students to drive forward academic and workforce strength. Dr. Amaya's educational background includes a Ph.D. in Quantitative Biology from the University of Texas at Arlington, and he comes with a wealth of nearly three decades of experience in higher education.
Dr. William Serrata, President of EPCC, outlined Dr. Amaya's vast experience at the institution and the leadership roles he has filled, highlighting strategic contributions such as the development of the Architecture Building and the AST Building. "His leadership has guided the development of new facilities...and fostered collaborations that have expanded educational and career opportunities for students across the region," Serrata told the EPCC News.









