Faculty Profile

Derek Reilley serves as the Program Director for the Alternative Energy program at Colby Community College and oversees the Telecommunications Network Technician programs at both Colby Community College and the Norton Correctional Facility. With decades of experience in telecommunications, renewable energy, and technical education, Reilley brings extensive industry knowledge and hands-on expertise to the classroom.

He began his education at Northwest Kansas Technical College, where he earned an associate degree in applied science in 1992. He started his career in telecommunications, installing and testing cellular equipment throughout the United States and internationally. His work has taken him across the country and abroad to locations including Alaska, Hawaii, Saipan, Guam, Japan, Bermuda, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

In 1997, Derek began teaching telecommunications at Northwest Kansas Technical College while continuing his own education and professional development. In 2010, he became the Title III Activity Director at Colby Community College, helping lead the development of the College’s online distance learning infrastructure through a $1.9 million federal grant over five years.

As CCC expanded its Sustainable/Renewable Energy program, he joined the faculty as an adjunct instructor teaching solar photovoltaic and small wind courses. In 2013, he became Program Director for the Sustainable/Renewable Energy Program, and in 2019, he also began overseeing the Telecommunications Network Technician Program. Since 2022, he has served as Division Chair, overseeing the Welding, Telecommunications, and Alternative Energy programs at the Norton Correctional Facility in addition to the Alternative Energy program at CCC.

Derek has designed, installed, and commissioned numerous solar photovoltaic and wind energy systems and holds multiple industry certifications in solar photovoltaic systems, battery-based systems, technical sales, and trainer instruction.

Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family and friends. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys fishing, hunting, camping, and traveling whenever possible. He is the father of five children.