Dr. Johnny MacLean Selected as Chancellor of Montana Tech
Commissioner of Higher Education Clayton Christian and University of Montana President Seth Bodnar announce today that Dr. Johnny MacLean has been selected as the 13th Chancellor of Montana Technological University, beginning June 1, 2025, pending formal approval by the Board of Regents at its May meeting.
Dr. MacLean is Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of Montana Western. Before joining UMW in 2022, Dr. MacLean served in the Office of the Provost at Southern Utah University (SUU) since 2016, rising to the position of Associate Provost.
Dr. MacLean completed a B.S. in Geology at Furman University in 2001, an M.S. in Earth Science at Syracuse University in 2004, and a Ph.D. in Geosciences at the University of Montana in 2007. Upon completion of his academic studies, MacLean worked in the oil and gas industry in Texas as a geologist and in the environmental consulting industry in Montana. As a tenured faculty member of geology at Southern Utah University (SUU), Dr. MacLean combined his passion for the outdoors and belief in teaching authentically by taking his students outside to learn from nature and to see scientific concepts come to life.
“The depth of experience Dr. MacLean brings to Montana Tech as both an accomplished scientist and as a student-centered administrator will be of immense value to the university as he leads it into the next era of growth and expansion,” said Commissioner Christian. “His passion and vision for Tech’s STEM-focused mission makes him an excellent choice to continue Tech on its positive trajectory.”
Originally chartered in 1900 as The Montana State School of Mines, Montana Tech provides a world-class science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, preparing graduates for impactful careers. The University’s main campus provides a comprehensive range of programs ranging from bachelor's degrees to doctoral studies in high-demand fields. The Highlands College campus complements this with career-ready and transfer pathways, directly addressing the workforce demands of the region.
“Montana Tech’s unique purpose is clear,” said Dr. MacLean. “This institution serves students who want to change the world through STEM disciplines, and it is the honor of my career to support them in pursuing their goals. I am excited to be joining the vibrant city of Butte and look forward to building on Tech’s strong tradition of partnership with the community.”
During June, Dr. MacLean and Chancellor Les Cook will collaborate to facilitate a seamless transition of leadership, ensuring continuity and maintaining momentum on university initiatives.