Diane M. DeBacker is taking over one of the most important jobs in Kansas: helping prepare the workforce of the future.

On Tuesday, Gov. Sam Brownback named DeBacker the executive director of business and education innovation at the Kansas Commerce Department.

“Dr. DeBacker will help bridge the gap between the demands of the private sector in Kansas and the way our students are educated in Kansas,” Brownback said. “We want our students to be equipped to jump in and fill the needs of the modern, changing economy.”

DeBacker comes to the state Commerce Department from RTI International, a nonprofit research institution with a global reach. As director of education research at RTI, she built research partnerships with K-12 schools and education policy organizations.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to continue to serve the students of Kansas as Executive Director of Business and Education Innovation,” DeBacker said.

“If our state is going to remain competitive in the ever-changing 21st century economy, then we must develop innovative ways to ensure that we are equipping our students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed right here in Kansas.”

DeBacker earned her bachelor’s degree from Emporia State University and her doctorate from Kansas State University. Over the course of her career, she has served in a variety of leadership roles in education, including Kansas state education commissioner, associate superintendent and principal. She also worked in the education systems in the United Arab Emirates.

“I am excited to have Dr. DeBacker joining our team, and I know she will excel in her new role,” Lt. Gov. Jeff Colyer said. “One of my highest priorities is ensuring that we are training students to fill in-demand jobs here in Kansas. Having Dr. DeBacker in this very important position will enhance the lines of communication between the governor’s office, our education institutions and industry, and guarantee that our students have the skills Kansas employers are looking for.”