Dr. Joel Pilco

Dr. Joel Pilco is a dynamic higher education executive recognized as an expert leading practitioner in binational education with more than 23 years of leadership experience in academic administration, enrollment management, and international program development. A proud product of the community college system, Dr. Pilco began his journey at Southwestern College and has since built a career dedicated to expanding educational access, advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and strengthening opportunity across the CaliBaja region.

As Director of Binational and International Programs at Southwestern College, Dr. Pilco has led groundbreaking initiatives that connect communities across borders. He played a central role in the implementation of AB 91, a pilot program that expanded access for students in the California–Mexico border region. He also pioneered the Binational Student Graduation Ceremony in Mexico, allowing transborder students to celebrate with their families, and directed the historic Binational Conference study abroad trip to Guanajuato, Mexico, which enabled DACA students to legally exit and re-enter the United States for the first time in decades. His work continues to strengthen partnerships with universities, government agencies, and international organizations in both Mexico and the United States, advancing Southwestern College’s role as a leader in binational education and in creating inclusive pathways to higher learning.

In addition to his administrative leadership, Dr. Pilco has served in faculty roles for more than ten years, teaching courses in business and education. He has also held senior leadership positions including Dean, Director, Center Director, and Associate Vice President at various higher education institutions in California, where he managed enrollment strategies, developed international programs, guided accreditation processes, and supervised large cross-functional teams. His combined academic and administrative experience reflects a deep commitment to student success, innovation, and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion across diverse learning environments.

Dr. Pilco holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Management and an MBA in International Business from Alliant International University, as well as an Associate of Science in Business Administration from Southwestern College. He is a frequent speaker at national and international conferences where he addresses topics such as educational access, student mobility, and the role of community colleges in global engagement.