Daren Otten

Dr. Daren Otten has served as Superintendent/President of Copper Mountain College since 2019, leading the college’s efforts to expand educational access, strengthen workforce pathways, and position the institution as both an academic anchor and community hub for the Morongo Basin. Under his leadership, the college has advanced strategic enrollment growth, deepened partnerships with the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, expanded career and technical education programs, and strengthened student support services aligned with the needs of a rural-serving region. He has also prioritized stabilizing and solidifying district finances through multi-year planning, responsible reserve management, and transparent fiscal practices that position the college for long-term sustainability.

Throughout his career, Dr. Otten has held a range of leadership and instructional roles, including Vice President of Instruction and Student Services, Dean of Applied Academics and Workforce Development, and faculty member. His leadership portfolio spans academic affairs, student services, workforce development, accreditation, fiscal stewardship, and participatory governance. He places a strong emphasis on clear, consistent communication, believing that trust, transparency, and shared understanding are essential to effective governance and institutional success. Prior to joining the California Community College system, he spent eleven years at California State University, Chico, where he served as a faculty member and vice chair in the Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering and Manufacturing.

Dr. Otten is deeply engaged in statewide policy and advocacy efforts on behalf of California’s community colleges, particularly rural institutions. He chairs the Association of California Community College Administrators Commission for Finance, Legislation, and Advocacy and leads the Community College League of California Advisory Committee on Legislation, advising system leaders on state and federal policy and broader advocacy strategies.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Technology and Manufacturing Management and a master’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering from California State University, Chico, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from California State University, Sacramento. Dr. Otten is committed to servant leadership and prides himself on serving as a connector and communicator between educational institutions and the communities they serve.