Robert Shaner

Chief Workforce Development Officer @LIFT

Detroit, MI, US

Lead operations across 5 regions for nonprofit manufacturing innovation institute. Manage multidisciplinary team of 6 and own full P&L accountability for training, R&D commercialization, and federal contracting. Build and sustain partnerships with Department of War (DoW), state and regional governments, industry associations, and educational institutions. Serve on Executive Leadership Team and spearhead workforce development.• Strengthened federal and regional partnerships, personally leading strategic engagement with DoW, Michigan Manufacturing Association, and state agencies to secure new multi-million-dollar grants, contracts, and legislative wins supporting workforce and technology growth. • Standardized and scaled workforce development initiatives across Detroit, Puerto Rico, and Florida, aligning regional metrics and improving program performance and accountability. • Led cross-sector coalition in Iowa to modernize manufacturing facilities and foster collaboration among local economic development groups, schools, and community stakeholders.

Saginaw Valley State University

Gerstacker Fellowship

Central Michigan University

Master's degree

University of Detroit

Bachelor's degree

Oakland University

Doctor of Philosophy - PhD

Center For Creative Leadership

Leadership at the Peak

Harvard University

Harvard Superintendents Institute

Wayne State University

Education Specialist

United States Marine Corps

Officers Basic School