Aaron Fichtner, Director of Research and Evaluation at the Heldrich Center for Workforce Development at Rutgers University, manages the Center’s economic research, workforce needs research, performance metrics development and program evaluations. At the core of his work is the harnessing of data and information to inform the design and refinement of workforce, education and economic development programs.

He has managed the Center’s efforts over the past ten years to understand the changing workforce and skill needs of industries and to assist education institutions and workforce development organizations to use this information to inform curricula, training and program decisions and to help individuals obtain employment. He has conducted research on a wide variety of industries, including green jobs, biotechnology/ pharmaceuticals, and financial services. Dr. Fichtner is currently leading a statewide collaborative effort of more than 30 educational institutions, Workforce Investment Boards and employers to create the New Jersey Transportation, Logistics, and Distribution Talent Network. This network is working to build lasting connections between employers, educational institutions, One Stop Career Centers and current and future industry employees throughout the state.

Dr. Fichtner also manages the Center’s evaluation and performance management efforts. He oversaw the implementation of the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) in New Jersey and the development of a consumer report card (CRC) for training programs (njtrainingsystems.org). He is currently leading the team that is designing and implementing a metric system and quarterly dashboard for the Bio-1 WIRED region.

He earned his Ph.D. from the Department of Urban Planning and Policy Development at Rutgers University and earned a Master's degree in Urban Planning from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in History from Vassar College.