Best Practices for CTE Administrators Conference 2026: Full Schedule

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7:00am PDT

Breakfast

Wednesday October 7, 2026 7:00am - 8:00am PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Wednesday October 7, 2026 7:00am - 8:00am PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Meals

8:00am PDT

Opening General Session: The Next 100 Starts Now

Wednesday October 7, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Kick off this year's conference with a unique opening session that celebrates ACTE's 100th anniversary while looking ahead to what's next. For a century, ACTE has brought together CTE leaders committed to advancing opportunities for learners, strengthening communities and preparing the workforce of tomorrow. As we celebrate that legacy, you'll hear from leaders in the field doing the work you're doing every day. Through their experiences, we'll reflect on how innovation, partnership and leadership have shaped CTE's past—and explore how adaptability and bold thinking will define its future.
This inspiring opening session features three dynamic segments designed to spark ideas, broaden perspectives and prepare you for the opportunities ahead:
• Hear the founder of a groundbreaking entrepreneurial school share how human-centered design and innovation are transforming teaching and learning in CTE, with practical ideas you can bring back to your own programs.
• Get a timely update from a leading voice in federal CTE policy, with a clear, accessible overview of what's happening in Washington and what it means for administrators today and in the year ahead.
• Join us for a fireside chat with ACTE's Administrator of the Year as she discusses her programs, lessons learned, leadership experiences and strategies for strengthening the perception and impact of CTE for students, educators and communities.
For 100 years, CTE has adapted to meet the changing needs of students, employers and communities. The next chapter will depend on leaders who continue that tradition—not by preserving the status quo, but by shaping what's next. We hope you'll leave energized, inspired and ready to make the most of the conference experience.

Speakers

Alisha Hyslop

Chief Policy, Research & Content Officer, ACTE

Dr. Alisha Hyslop has spent 25 years working in career and technical education and is
currently the Chief Policy, Research & Content Officer at the national Association for
Career and Technical Education. At ACTE, Alisha leads the organization’s policy,
advocacy, research, program... Read More →

Sandra Adams

VP Administration Division, ACTE

Sandra currently serves as a CTE administrator, instructional consultant, keynote speaker and ACTE Board member for Administration. Her passion for active learning and high-quality instruction led her to author four books on CTE instruction and meaningful collaboration, including... Read More →

Riley Johnson

Founder and Principal, Amp Lab at Electric Works

Donna Prudhomme

Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE), 2026 ACTE National Administrator of the Year, Beaumont ISD

Wednesday October 7, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am PDT
Colorado Ballroom

General Session

11:15am PDT

Bridging the Divide: High-Impact Science-to-STEM-to-CTE Learning

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Transformational CTE leadership ignites student potential by leveraging the seamless connection between Science, STEM, and Career & Technical Education. Learn to craft programs that connect Science-to-STEM-to-CTE programs to promote real-world learning, sparking curiosity and building vital skills and efficacy.

Speakers

Patrick Brown

Executive Director of STEAM and CTE, Fort Zumwalt School District

Patrick Brown has extensive experience designing and implementing research-based CTE programs. He currently leads the biggest apprenticeship program tied to CTE in Missouri which has been recognized by the governor and garnered local, regional, and national accolades. To supplement... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Building Scalable AI-Ready CTE Programs with Faculty

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Are you wondering how to integrate AI into CTE programs in ways that are practical, sustainable, and aligned with workforce needs? This session will provide concrete, evidence-based models and ready-to-use sample materials to help you do exactly that. Designed for CTE administrators, district and college leaders, deans, faculty leaders, and professional learning coordinators in both high schools and community colleges, this session shares findings from a National Science Foundation–funded project piloted in secondary and postsecondary settings. The presenters will introduce a faculty-centered model for building AI literacy across pathways without adding stand-alone courses or relying on isolated experts. Participants will explore sample AI literacy modules and engage in small-group discussion focused on incorporating/adapting materials for their own programs. Participants will leave with access to sample module content, instructional activities, and a planning framework for supporting faculty learning and curriculum integration in their schools and colleges.

Speakers

Joyce Malyn-Smith

Distinguished Scholar, Education Development Center, Inc. (EDC)

Joyce Malyn-Smith is a national expert on STEM career development and workforce education. She leads a body of work that explores how to enhance STEM learning and support people in using their STEM skills, knowledge, and dispositions to pursue productive and rewarding careers. H... Read More →

Kirsten Peterson

Senior Project Director, Education Development Center, Inc. (EDC)

Kirsten Peterson, EDC senior project director and strategic business development leader, specializes in results-oriented facilitative leadership and partner cultivation. For clients (e.g., public health agencies, federal education agencies, state education agencies, districts... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Building the Teacher Pipeline... Industry Expert to Master Teacher

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Across Pennsylvania and the nation, schools face a growing shortage of qualified Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers. Industry professionals possess valuable technical expertise, yet traditional certification pathways often create barriers that discourage entry into teaching. As a result, districts struggle to fill critical positions, limiting student access to high-quality, career-connected learning opportunities.
To address this workforce challenge, innovative solutions are needed to build a sustainable pipeline of certified CTE educators while maintaining rigorous instructional quality.

The Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) has developed an innovative teacher certification pathway designed to strengthen the CTE educator pipeline. This pathway enables participants to earn a Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Intern Certificate and ultimately an Instructional I Certificate while actively employed in a teaching position.
The program is designed as a competency-based, job-embedded certification model that allows participants to apply learning directly in their classrooms while receiving structured support.

Speakers

Danielle Hawkins

Assistant Director of Human Resources, Chester County Intermediate Unit

Ms. Danielle Hawkins offers over two decades of impactful experience in special education, culminating in her current role as Assistant Director of Human Resources for Employee Development at the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) since 2022. In this capacity, she spearheads... Read More →

Dr. Steve Leever

Director of Career, Technical, and Customized Education, Chester County Intermediate Unit

Dr. Steve Leever brings 36 years of distinguished experience across public, private, and international education to his role as Director of Career, Technical & Customized Education at the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) where he oversees three unique Career Technical Education... Read More →

Dr. Jennifer Murray

Assistant Executive Director, Chester County Intermediate Unit

Dr. Jennifer Murray is a respected educational leader with more than 27 years of experience in public education, serving in roles that span classroom teacher to superintendent. She currently serves as the Assistant Executive Director for the Chester County Intermediate Unit, where... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Capstones & Cowboys: Taming the Wild West of Social Capital Integration

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

This Ain’t Our First Rodeo. Discover how our district balances systemwide cohesion through shared capstone networking structures while honoring meaningful school-level autonomy. As a Colorado state graduation requirement, capstones are implemented across more than twenty two secondary schools in Jeffco Public Schools, each at varying levels of integration. We will share practical strategies for cultivating student ownership while ensuring equitable access to opportunities that intentionally build social capital for every learner. Participants will analyze two contrasting social capital networking lesson plans, one mountain rural and one city urban, and leave with a customizable structure to implement with educators, students, and industry experts in their own communities.

Speakers

Suzanne Sundbye

Graduation Pathway Designer, Jeffco Public Schools

With 30 years of experience as an educator and instructional leader in Jeffco School District, Colorado, Suzanne Sundbye brings deep expertise in curriculum, coaching, and student-centered learning. During her current seven years as a Graduation Demonstration Coordinator, she focuses... Read More →

Miranda Ziegler

Work-Based Learning Specialist, Jeffco Public Schools

Miranda Ziegler is a Work-Based Learning Specialist for Jeffco Public Schools, where she manages industry and community partnerships, trains and supports educators, and develops systems and planning to expand access to career-connected learning. Her work was highlighted in Hans Meeder’s... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Connecting Education and Workforce Through Employer-Driven Pathways

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Arkansas legislation and policy impacting K-12, higher education, and workforce development has led to unprecedented collaboration among systems and expanded opportunities for students to earn meaningful credentials. This session will explore developing labor market-driven, workforce education programs; aligning funding to workforce demands; and high school diploma pathways with accelerated learning through concurrent credit, industry-recognized certifications, and work-based learning.

Speakers

Ross White

State Career and Technical Education Director, Arkansas Department of Education

Ross White, director of Career and Technical Education (CTE), has served as the state CTE director since May 2021, bringing extensive experience in secondary and statewide CTE leadership. He has led the update of the state Perkins V plan, the implementation of Success Ready Gradu... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Crosswalking CTE Courses for Academic Credit

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Discover how Jeffco Schools maximizes student opportunities by strategically aligning CTE Health Science courses with Colorado Academic Standards. This session highlights how Jeffco’s internal crosswalk process ensures these courses function as lab-based science credits that meet graduation requirements, while maintaining rigorous academic proficiency through hands-on, industry-relevant learning.

District and school-level administrators, CTE coordinators, and curriculum specialists looking to increase graduation pathways and program enrollment will gain a repeatable framework for identifying standards overlaps, allowing them to implement similar credit-equivalency models in science, math, or ELA. This systemic approach helps institutions validate the rigor of CTE while solving scheduling conflicts for students.

We will move beyond theory with an interactive "Crosswalk Lab," where participants use mapping tools to align sample CTE competencies with state standards. The session concludes with a collaborative roundtable to troubleshoot local policy barriers.

Speakers

Jaime Grimm

CTE Health Science & Public Safety Pathway Coordinator, Jeffco Schools

With 15+ years in education, Jaime Grimm serves as Jeffco Schools’ CTE Health Science & Public Safety Pathway Coordinator. She is dedicated to empowering teachers, expanding student opportunities, and using data-driven strategies to ensure excellence in instruction. Outside of her... Read More →

Theresa Lazzeri

Science Content Specialist, Jeffco Schools

Pending

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

CTE Experiences for Individual Student Growth: A CTE Director's Role in Maximizing Program Potential

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

1. The session is about increasing student opportunities aligned to their postsecondary goals and workforce needs.
2. CTE directors will benefit from this session.
3. CTE directors will review current gaps or potential opportunities and discuss how those can be messaged from a district level, including planning and implementation.
4. Participants will utilize a reflection document to determine their current areas of programmatic stagnation and will hear about various opportunities to increase engagement through career exploration in middle school, military career readiness, school-based enterprises, opportunities for students with special needs, and sharing stories with the community. We will discuss professional development ideas to increase these areas.
5. Participants will receive a reflection tool, slide deck, and planning document.

Speakers

Candi Collier

Senior Director of CTE and Military Readiness, Tennessee Department of Education

Candi Collier serves as Tennessee's state CTE director. She is a 25-year veteran CTE educator with experience as a marketing teacher, CTE director, and state CTE director. She provides professional development opportunities and transparent communication to 130 district CTE administrators... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Designing Opportunity (Because Placements Aren’t Enough)

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Work-based learning has expanded rapidly — but growth alone doesn’t equal impact. In too many systems, success is measured by placements, hours logged, or participation counts while the real question goes unanswered: Are we actually designing opportunity, or just arranging experiences?

This session challenges administrators to rethink WBL as an ecosystem, not a collection of individual placements. Participants will explore how intentional design, aligned partnerships, and system-level thinking transform WBL from activity-driven programs into strategic drivers of student growth, talent development, and community connection.

Placements are easy to count. Opportunity must be designed.

Speakers

Kristy Volesky

Founder and Principal Consultant, Volesky Consulting

Kristy Volesky brings deep experience across education, government, and business partnerships, helping schools, businesses, and communities move from ideas to action through bold vision, strategic alignment, and collective impact.
A national thought leader in systems-level collaboration, Kristy has worked with schools, colleges, organizations, and state agencies across the country to strengthen connections between education, business, and the community. Her work centers on aligning local and regional efforts
... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

From Words on the Walls to Behavior in the Halls

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Many CTE organizations proudly display their values — but far fewer have defined what those values look like in daily practice. When expectations remain undefined, leadership lacks consistency and culture relies more on individual interpretation than shared standards.

This session explores a practical approach to translating organizational values into observable behaviors that clarify expectations for staff and leaders. Using a real-world example from a CTE institution’s Standards of Excellence initiative, participants will examine how defining behavior-based standards strengthens onboarding, coaching conversations and performance alignment.

Through guided reflection and a structured behavior-mapping activity, attendees will draft one behavior-based standard and identify a practical first step for implementation in their own setting.

Participants will receive a Behavior Mapping Worksheet and a simple framework to continue the work beyond the session.

Speakers

Julie C. Griffin

Project Manger, Organizational and Talent Development, Meridian Technology Center

Julie Griffin serves as Project Manager for Organizational & Talent Development at Meridian Technology Center in Oklahoma, where she leads system-level initiatives focused on culture alignment, leadership development, and staff support across CTE programs. Her work centers on translating... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Gateway to the Good Life: Work Based Learning & Employer Partnerships

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

This session highlights the Good Life Solutions Program, a workforce development model designed to connect high school students with employers and support job placement prior to graduation. Participants will learn how intentional employer partnerships and structured work-based learning—such as internships and apprenticeships—create early career success while strengthening local talent pipelines.
The session is designed for administrators, CTE leaders, and workforce development professionals seeking practical strategies to increase student readiness and employment outcomes. Attendees will gain insight into program design, student eligibility and placement processes, employer engagement strategies, and solutions to common implementation challenges.
Audience engagement will include real-world examples, guided discussion, and interactive reflection to help participants apply concepts within their own institutions or programs. Deliverables include a digital slide deck, employer partnership templates, work-based learning planning tools, and student career-readiness resources that can be immediately adapted for use.

Speakers

Sherri Thompson

CTE Program Coordinator - The Good Life Solution Program, New Horizons Regional Education Centers

Sherri Thompson is a results-oriented Human Resources leader with more than 20 years of progressive experience spanning employee relations, HRIS, compensation and benefits, workforce development, and organizational transformation. She is recognized for her strong analytical capability... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Getting Creative with In-District Dual Enrollment Online CTE Delivery

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Dual enrollment is expanding rapidly, yet access remains uneven—particularly for students from low-income backgrounds, students of color, and those historically excluded from accelerated coursework. Research from the Community College Research Center and Jobs for the Future shows these gaps are often driven by program design and delivery, not student ability.

This interactive roundtable explores how districts can get more creative with in-district online and hybrid delivery models to expand access to high-quality CTE dual enrollment without replacing existing programs. Participants will examine evidence-based design principles, scheduling approaches, and support structures that help students succeed in flexible learning environments. Using real district examples, attendees will engage in guided discussion and planning activities to evaluate their own delivery models and identify practical, equity-centered improvements they can implement in their schools or systems.

Speakers

Cecilia Carr

Business Developer, Education & Workforce Development, Dunwoody College of Technology

Cecilia Carr brings over a decade of experience in education spanning classroom teaching, learning design, and workforce-connected initiatives. She began her career as a classroom educator and holds a master’s degree in Learning Design and Technology, grounding her work in instructional... Read More →

Bradford Hosack

Chief Operating Officer, Dunwoody College of Technology

Bradford Hosack serves as Chief Operating Officer of Dunwoody Immersive, where he oversees the design, engineering, and district implementation of immersive, dual-credit CTE programs delivered in partnership with high schools.

A co-founder of Flipgrid (acquired by Microsoft), Bradford has spent more than 20 years building scalable educational platforms that integrate sound pedagogy with robust technology infrastructure. He has led cross-functional teams through product development, large-scale platform migr... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Governance, Grants, and Goals, Oh My!

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

It is imperative to not only manage grant funds and committee work effectively, but there is an art to communication and proactive planning that we all must learn to deploy. As the previous Vice President for Strategic Development and Planning for 4 years at Norco College, Dr. Fleming oversaw marketing, strategic planning, governance, workforce development, grants, strategic partnership, and resource development. This session will provide some context for a roundtable discussion for you to share with, and learn from, other attendees. We'll highlight some best practices in managing grants, communicating our successes, and achieving sustainability. But we won't sugarcoat the truth. We'll also share missteps and failures so we can truly learn from one another. If you are new to managing grants, expanding CTE programs, looking to refine your governance processes, or aspire to a higher administrative position, then this conversation is for you.

Speakers

Kevin Fleming

CEO, Catapult Masterclass

Dr. Kevin Fleming received the 2025 ACTE Postsecondary Leadership Award and serves as the Founder and CEO of Catapult Masterclass. A 25+ year administrator, he has also produced multiple, viral animation videos including Success in the New Economy, and authored four books including... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Implementing Quality CTE Programs in Remote Regions

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Session describes how YKSD has implemented engaging CTE program pathways in Alaska's remote regions along the Yukon and Koyukuk Rivers. We will describe how we have created partnerships with local entities such as Tribal Organizations, Trade Unions, Alaska Department of Transportation, Post Secondary Training Organizations, and other Alaskan school districts. This can help create a framework for any rural district looking to create a CTE Hub for multiple rural sites that do not have their own CTE facilities.

Speakers

Dave Foshee

Director of Career and Technical Education, Yukon-Koyukuk School District

Dave Foshee is a veteran educator with 32 years of public education experience. Dave began his career as a middle school science in suburban Oklahoma in 1994 and moved to Alaska in 1997 where he was a teacher and school principal in the Bering Straight School District. He worked... Read More →

Patty Woody

Assistant Director of Career and Technical Education, Yukon -Koyukuk School District

Patty Woody is the Assistant Director of Career & Technical Education (CTE) at YKSD. With her 15 years with the district, she has served as CTE Assistant Director, CTE Coordinator, and Itinerant Counselor. With 22 years of experience in education, Patty has held a variety of roles... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Language as Workforce Capital in Career and Technical Education

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

This session reframes multilingualism as workforce capital within Career and Technical Education (CTE). Drawing on a case study from Upper Bucks County Technical School and its partnership with ACTFL/LTI and NOCTI, participants will explore how credentialing students’ language skills strengthens employer alignment, increases wage potential, supports Perkins V accountability, and advances equity through Universal Design for Learning.

Attendees will examine employer demand data, student ROI outcomes, and a practical implementation roadmap for launching language credentialing in secondary CTE programs. The session is designed for CTE leaders seeking stronger workforce alignment, improved credential attainment metrics, and scalable equity strategies.

Engagement strategies include live polling, structured reflection prompts, small-group discussions on local employer needs, and a guided implementation-planning exercise.

Participants will receive a step-by-step launch checklist, partnership framework template, and a replicable communication toolkit to initiate or expand language credentialing in their own institutions.

Speakers

Michael Herrera

Executive Director, Upper Bucks County Technical School

Michael Herrera, Ed.D., is an education and workforce systems executive with more than 20 years of experience aligning public education, industry, and policy to expand economic mobility. He serves as Executive Director of Upper Bucks County Technical School, leading a multi-district public career and technical... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Leveraging Apprenticeships and Internships to Strengthen City Schools’ Talent Pipeline

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Building a Sustainable Internal Talent Pipeline Through Apprenticeships and Internships
This session highlights how Baltimore City Public Schools strategically leverages apprenticeships and internships to address workforce shortages and strengthen long-term operational sustainability. As skilled labor gaps and succession challenges increase, the district shifted from reactive hiring to a tiered workforce development model. Paid, multi-year apprenticeships serve as the primary pipeline to employment, while structured internships function as an early exposure and feeder strategy.
Participants will learn how to align program design with workforce planning, funding priorities, supervision capacity, and data-driven decision-making. The session will explore return on investment, retention impact, and policy considerations that support sustainable growth.
Attendees—including district leaders, HR professionals, CTE administrators, and program managers—will gain a replicable framework, planning tools, and practical strategies to design or refine apprenticeship and internship programs that build internal talent pipelines efficiently, equitably, and sustainably.
We can provide handouts.

Speakers

Latasha Merritte

Director, Baltimore City Public Schools Operations

LaTasha Merritte is a dynamic professional with over two decades of comprehensive experience in senior-level administrative, financial, and leadership roles. With a proven track record in enhancing processes and boosting productivity in deadline-driven environments, LaTasha excels... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

People First, Programs Thrive: Relationship-Centered Leadership Approach

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

What makes a CTE program truly successful? The answer is people, both the instructors who bring industry expertise into the classroom and the students they are preparing for meaningful careers. As a new CTE administrator, I have experienced firsthand the urgency of addressing two critical challenges that affect programs nationwide: instructor turnover and the gap between technical training and the soft skills employers demand.
This session will take an honest, practical, and relationship-centered look at how administrators, especially those new to the role can build a culture of trust and belonging that keeps great instructors in the classroom and equips students with the professional behaviors, communication skills, and work ethic that employers consistently cite as top hiring criteria.
Prepare to engage in an interactive and hands-on workshop that will provide you the opportunity to network with other CTE administrators, reflect on your leadership and walk away with actionable strategies you can easily implement to build a climate and culture centered on authentic relationships.

Speakers

Jennifer Ramos

Supervisor of CTE, Essex County Schools of Technology

Educator of 20 years in the Essex County Schools of Technology school district in Newark, NJ. I began my teaching career at our Newark Tech Campus in 2005 as a Social Studies teacher for bilingual students. Over my tenure as a classroom teacher I have taught various history courses... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Retail Careers Start Here: Preparing Students for the Skills America’s Largest Private-Sector Employer Needs

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Retail is the largest private-sector employer in the United States and one of the most accessible entry points into the workforce. It offers students a wide range of career pathways—from in-store roles to warehouse and distribution center operations to corporate opportunities—while helping them build durable skills that translate across industries.
In this fireside chat, a regional retail leader joins an NRF Foundation representative to share what employers are looking for in today’s entry-level talent. The conversation will highlight the human-centered skills that matter most—communication, teamwork, reliability, adaptability, customer focus, and problem solving—and how these skills show up in real retail roles.
CTE educators will gain practical insights they can bring back to the classroom to help students connect what they’re learning today with the expectations of today’s employers. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how retail can serve as a launchpad for students’ next steps—whether that means entering the workforce, pursuing college, or serving in the military.

Speakers

Kate Fessler

Sr. Director of Outreach, RISE Up

Kate Fessler is the senior director of outreach for RISE Up at the NRF Foundation, where she works with organizations across the country – including high schools, workforce organizations and community colleges – to introduce and deliver the RISE Up credentials to learners preparing... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Scaling Success for your Skilled Trades Program through Industry Partnerships

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

You don’t have to build a CTE program alone. Hear from leaders in Careers in Construction Colorado, (CCIC), who partners with 91 high schools in Colorado, and Harbor Freight Tools for Schools prize-winning teachers who have successfully implemented the CICC model to strengthen their program and create a pipeline of students to the skilled trades industry.

Key Content: Discuss the "Colorado Model"—how Careers in Construction Colorado, (CICC), integrates with schools—and how the Harbor Freight Prize for Teaching Excellence can provide the "seed money" or "rocket fuel" for these programs.
Administrator Takeaway: A checklist for vetting industry partners and securing long-term funding/partnerships. Why does the industry curriculum matter? How to give industry what they want and enhance the school’s program at the same time.

Speakers

Oakley Van Oss

CTE Construction Teacher, Summit High SChool

Oakley Van Oss won the Harbor Freight Prize for Teaching Excellence in 2024 and teaches Welding and Construction at Summit County High School in Breckenridge, Colorado. His journey into teaching began with a degree in Spanish and International Affairs, which led him to blend language... Read More →

Scott Springer

Education Advisor, Harbor Freight Tools for Schools

Scott has been an Education Advisor for Harbor Freight Tools for Schools since 2017. His primary responsibility is to support the teacher network now consisting of over 100 Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence winners.Scott brings innovative ideas, on-the-ground... Read More →

Andy Vrieze

CTE Carpentry Teacher, Lewis Palmer High School

Andrew Vrieze won the Harbor Freight Prize for Teaching Excellence in 2023 and teaches carpentry at Lewis-Palmer High School in Monument, Colorado. He describes himself as a “man of many trades and a master of none.” Growing up, he would spend time in the cabinet shop with his... Read More →

Renee Zentz

President, Careers in Construction Colorado

Renee Zentz is a dynamic leader with over 25 years of experience in construction industry advocacy, vocational education, and community development. She served as the CEO of the Housing & Building Association of Colorado Springs (CSHBA) for 23 years, where she championed numerous... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Second Service: Military Veterans Path to CTE

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Join us as we showcase the process that CTE Colorado has established for military veterans to receive their secondary CTE credential to teach in Colorado. You will benefit from this session if you are working on recruitment at your school/district/state. This session will help administrators see new ways of how Colorado is using their strategic plan to help fill the gap of teachers with military Veterans and apply these methods in their state. We will present and have a discussion with the group. We will provide a website that has our presentation & Veteran interest form.

Speakers

CarrieAnn Mathis

CTE Program Director - Engineering, Technology, & Media Arts, Colorado Community College System - CTE

CarrieAnn Mathis is the Program Director of Engineering, Technology, & Media Arts for Colorado CTE. CarrieAnn started her career in the US Army Signal Corps. She spent 7 years as a communication officer with a combat deployment to Iraq in 2003. The VA covered her teacher training... Read More →

Jordan Whittington

CTE Program Director - Health Science & Public Safety, Colorado Community College System - CTE

Jordan Whittington is the Program Director of Health Science and Public Safety Career and Technical Education (CTE) at the Colorado Community College System. He has taken part in many system-wide projects that include the Law Enforcement Academy curriculum realignment and providing guidance in the... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

SECTOR CONNECTORS FOR STUDENTS OF ALL AGES

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Discover how Wyoming Career & Technical Education is transforming student futures by connecting classrooms with industry. This workshop invites teachers and administrators to explore innovative ways Wyoming bridges education and workforce needs. Curious about “Cybershindigs”? Learn how these engaging events introduce students to real-world careers in health sciences and beyond. See how industry associations and businesses are mastering the “secret handshake” to build meaningful partnerships with schools, creating opportunities that benefit students and communities. Gain practical strategies and creative ideas to strengthen career pathways in your school, district, or region. Walk away with templates, tools, and fresh perspectives to engage students and collaborate with local industries. Don’t miss this chance to join Wyoming’s movement to empower the next generation for success. Be inspired and ready to implement new ideas that make a difference in your educational community. Join us and help shape the future of career and technical education at this dynamic session!

Speakers

Dr. Michelle Aldrich

Career & Technical Education Supervisor, Wyoming Department of Education

Dr. Michelle Aldrich is currently the Wyoming State Director of Career & Technical Education and Perkins Funding during the day and a City Councilwoman representing Ward #3 as her hobby job! She spent 8 years teaching the family resource management strand at the University of Wyoming... Read More →

April Wickham

Educational Consultant, Wyoming Department of Education

April currently serves as an Educational Consultant overseeing Perkins V funding to school districts and community colleges across Wyoming.

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

Supporting Student Success Through Work-Based Learning

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

This session explores how Work-Based Learning (WBL), supported by Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) resources and engagement, can advance student success during key points from middle school to high school, high school to postsecondary education, and into the workforce. Participants will examine how WBL reinforces college and career readiness and supports students as they plan for their future.
Learn practical approaches for integrating WBL through industry partnerships, digital platforms, and key interactions to build social capital. Attendees will leave with strategies to connect WBL to measurable student outcomes, including engagement, skill development, and postsecondary and career preparedness.

Speakers

Amanda Crawley

Program Manager, Work-Based Learning, SkillsUSA

Amanda Crawley serves as a Program Manager of Work-Based Learning at SkillsUSA, where she leads the development of resources, initiatives, and strategic initiatives that connect students to meaningful career exploration and real-world experiences. he works closely with state leaders... Read More →

Jordan Sewell

Program Manager, Work-Based Learning, SkillsUSA

Jordan Sewell serves as a Program Manager of Work-Based Learning at SkillsUSA. In this role, she develops, implements, and evaluates programs, resources, and initiatives that connect students with high-quality, real-world career experiences. This includes the creation of innovative... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

The Power of the Pack

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

This session showcases how Warm Springs Middle School built a rigorous, student‑centered career exploration and CTE program that engages every learner through career‑cluster–aligned clubs, intentional teaming, and integrated programs such as Discovering Your Futures and PLTW. Designed for administrators, CTE leaders, and middle‑grades educators, the session provides practical strategies for increasing student agency, strengthening academic relevance, and expanding early workforce exploration. Attendees will engage in interactive activities including small‑group design challenges, polls, and case‑study analysis to experience the WSMS model firsthand. Participants will leave with actionable tools such as planning templates, student interest surveys, sample schedules, partnership outreach scripts, and grant‑writing language to support program funding. A digital toolkit and slide deck will also be provided. By the end of the session, attendees will have concrete next steps to implement or enhance a schoolwide, student‑centered career exploration system that builds a strong foundation for future CTE pathways.

Speakers

Jamie Harris

The Power of the Pack: Building a Rigorous, Student-Centered Middle School Career Exploration Program, Warm Springs Middle School/Morgan County Schools WV

Jamie Harris is a visionary, student‑centered leader who serves as Principal of Warm Springs Middle School, where he has spearheaded one of the most transformative periods of growth and innovation in the school’s recent history. Known for his visible, hands-on leadership style... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

11:15am PDT

When Programs Are Full, Innovation Begins: Expanding Access to Healthcare Careers

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

This session explores how Great Oaks redesigned access to in-demand healthcare credentials to meet urgent regional workforce needs and serve students who face barriers and limited program capacity. Attendees will learn how an innovative, student‑centered model expanded opportunities for learners previously turned away and how similar approaches can be adapted in their own institutions.
Designed for CTE administrators and leaders responsible for program quality, access, scalability, and workforce alignment, this session is especially valuable for those navigating enrollment limits, equity concerns, or high‑demand pathway challenges. Participants will engage in guided discussion and interactive reflection focused on applying the model within their own programs. Handouts and session slides will be provided to support implementation and next steps.

Speakers

Angie Collins

Director of Teaching and Learning, Great Oaks Career Campuses

Angie Collins began serving as the Director of Teaching and Learning in the summer of 2022 and has spent more than three and a half years contributing to the department’s mission of strengthening Career and Technical Education (CTE) across Great Oaks. Angie started her career with... Read More →

Nicole Hensley

Career Tech Program Specialist, Great Oaks Career Campuses

Nicole Hensley brings twenty three years of dedicated experience in the field of education to her role at Great Oaks Career Campuses. Throughout her career, Nicole has demonstrated a strong passion for Career and Technical Education (CTE), having taught in various CTE programs across... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Roundtable Session

12:15pm PDT

Lunch

Wednesday October 7, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Wednesday October 7, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

Meals

1:15pm PDT

General Session Panel

Wednesday October 7, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT

Colorado Ballroom

Wednesday October 7, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom

General Session

Best Practices for CTE Administrators Conference 2026

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