James D. Van Erden, former associate professor of economics at Weber State College, has been named national director of the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training in Washington, D.C.
Van Erden served as acting director of the bureau from Oct. 1, 1987, through July 17, when his new responsibilities were made official. The organization operates under the Labor Department's Employment and Training Administration.
Van Erden holds a master's degree in statistics from Utah State University and a doctorate in economics from the University of Utah.
His previous experience includes 13 years with the Labor Department in Washington, D.C., along with six years at Weber State.
Van Erden will oversee a staff of about 250 and handle a budget of about $14 million. He and his wife, Rebecca, have two children and live in Fairfax Station, Va.