If you’re a seasoned industry professional that is looking to share your expertise with students at the college or university level, becoming an adjunct professor can be an excellent next step. Many organizations actively seek adjunct instructors who bring practical, up-to-date experience from the field—whether that’s in business, technology, healthcare, engineering, education, or the arts.
In this post, we’ll share a professional resume example crafted specifically for an adjunct professor candidate with industry experience and technology proficiency. Whether you’re applying to teach part-time in a community college, four-year institution, or online program,this kind of resume shows hiring managers and committees that you’re not only an expert in your field of practice, but you are also capable of delivering relevant, engaging instruction in a physical classroom or virtual setting.
Sample Resume for an Adjunct Professor with Industry Experience
Elena Colon
Los Angeles, CA | (555) 123-4567 | elena.colon@anyemailaddress.com | [LinkedIn or Portfolio Link]
Professional Summary
Student-focused educator and communications professional with 10+ years of combined experience in higher education and the media industry. Adept at connecting classroom theory with real-world application through dynamic instruction, real-life examples, and digital learning tools. Passionate about helping students develop critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills that translate into academic and career success.
Areas of Expertise
College-Level Instruction | Business and Technical Writing | Digital Communications | Curriculum Development | Online & Hybrid Teaching (Canvas, Blackboard) | Student Mentorship | Industry-Academia Integration
Education
Master of Arts in English
ABC State University – San Diego, CA
Graduated: 2016
Bachelor of Arts in English
XYZ State University, Fullerton – Fullerton, CA
Graduated: 2013
Professional Experience
Adjunct Professor – English Department
ABC City College – Los Angeles, CA
August 2017 – Present
- Teach Composition I, Business Writing, and Technical Communication to undergraduate students
- Integrate real-world writing assignments such as project proposals and marketing content analysis
- Utilize Canvas LMS for course delivery, grading, and student engagement
- Mentor students pursuing careers in media, journalism, and communications
- Develop and revise syllabi to reflect current industry trends
Content Strategy Manager | Corporate Communications
Great Digital Media, LLC – Santa Monica, CA
June 2015 – Present
- Lead content development for internal and external digital campaigns
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-impact messaging and brand storytelling
- Conduct writing workshops for junior staff and interns
- Manage editorial calendars, content audits, and SEO-driven strategies
- Use analytics tools to track content performance and user engagement
Technology Skills
- Learning Management Systems: Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle
- Content Creation & Editing: Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Adobe Acrobat Pro
- Digital Marketing Tools: WordPress, HubSpot, Mailchimp
- SEO & Analytics: Google Analytics, SEMrush, Yoast SEO
- Virtual Collaboration Tools: Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Slack
- Writing & Research Tools: Grammarly, Zotero, Turnitin
Certifications
- Online Teaching Certificate – California Virtual Campus
- Certificate in Content Strategy – HubSpot Academy
- Inclusive Teaching in Higher Ed – Coursera/Columbia University
Publications & Presentations
- “Writing for the Digital Age: Teaching SEO and Storytelling in the Classroom,” Journal of Writing Pedagogy, 2025
- Speaker: “Blending Industry Experience with Instruction for Success,” National Adjunct Faculty Conference, 2024
Professional Affiliations
- Modern Language Association (MLA)
- National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)
- International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)
References
Available upon request.
In Conclusion
If you are a working career professional that is exploring adjunct teaching—or you already doing both—you’re in a good place to offer students the kind of practical insight they won’t find in textbooks. Your real-world experience is a great asset, but how you structure and present it on your resume is what can truly set you apart. This sample resume format is designed to highlight your two key strengths: academic qualifications and real-world industry expertise. With a clear and compelling presentation, you’re not just applying for a teaching role—you’re demonstrating your ability to deliver a learning experience that’s both relevant and impactful.
To take it a step further, pairing your resume with a tailored cover letter will allow you to express your passion for teaching and the value that you would bring to the physical or virtual classroom. With the right blend of content, tone, and intention, your job application can mark the start of a meaningful new chapter in your career; one where you share your knowledge, support student success, and help shape the next generation in your field of practice.
We wish you luck and success in your job search!
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