Dr. Joel Pilco

Dr. Joel Pilco is a higher education executive and expert in binational education, cross-border student mobility, policy implementation, and educational diplomacy. For more than two decades, he has transformed public policy into student-centered systems that expand access, mobility, and belonging throughout the CaliBaja region. An immigrant, first-generation college student, former English learner, and Southwestern College alumnus, he brings expertise and lived experience to this work.

 

As Director of Binational and International Programs at Southwestern College, Dr. Pilco leads work spanning enrollment, international education, student support, government relations, and partnerships. He led the college’s implementation of California's AB 91 Program, creating a bilingual admissions and support model for binational students. He also directed Southwestern College’s implementation of the Coordinated Access Program with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, helping reduce transportation barriers affecting student access and success.

 

Dr. Pilco established the Binational Student Graduation Ceremony in Tijuana and led international leadership programs in Mexico. His work strengthens collaboration among educational institutions, government agencies, consulates, and community organizations across the U.S.–Mexico border.

 

His career includes service as an associate vice president, dean, director, center director, and faculty member. For more than 15 years, he taught ESL, business, and education courses. A bilingual spokesperson and conference presenter, he contributes to regional and national conversations about binational education and community college leadership.

 

Dr. Pilco holds an Ed.D. and MBA from Alliant International University and an associate degree from Southwestern College. He is a Southwestern College Equity Leader and National Community College Hispanic Council Leadership Fellow.