🌟 NASA Member Spotlight 🌟 Brian Jettinghoff, Director of Student Services at Miami Valley Career Technology Center, has spent the past eight years supporting students through Career & Technical Education and helping connect learning to meaningful futures. Brian believes CTE represents a transformative shift in education by bridging the gap between classroom learning and workforce readiness. Through real-world experiences and hands-on opportunities, students gain confidence, purpose, and direction as they discover pathways that align with their strengths and goals. He is especially excited about the skilled trades pathways and the opportunities they provide students to develop problem-solving skills, confidence, and technical expertise while meeting critical workforce needs across Ohio. Brian also shared that one of the most powerful impacts of CTE is a transformation in students' mindsets as they begin to see themselves succeeding in tangible, meaningful ways; “CTE gives students the opportunity to see themselves succeeding in real, tangible ways, and that belief in themselves becomes a powerful driver of achievement.” Reflecting on his NASA experience, Brian highlighted the value of collaboration with fellow leaders, mentors, and superintendents across the state, as well as gaining insight into the advocacy and policy work that continues to shape the future of CTE in Ohio. Thank you, Brian, for helping students discover confidence, purpose, and opportunity through CTE! #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives

🌟 NASA Member Spotlight 🌟 Ted Gorman, Superintendent at Jefferson County JVS, is completing his first year in Career & Technical Education leadership and has quickly seen the powerful impact CTE has on students and communities. Ted believes CTE creates meaningful opportunities for students by providing hands-on, practical learning experiences that lead directly to careers, college, apprenticeships, and workforce success. He shared that CTE helps students build confidence, engagement, and a stronger sense of purpose while also strengthening connections to local workforce needs. One pathway Ted is especially excited about is Jefferson County JVS’s new HVAC program launching in fall 2026. The program will provide students with valuable industry credentials, hands-on training, and access to high-demand career opportunities within their local community. Ted also emphasized the importance of giving students opportunities to learn through real-world experiences that help them discover direction and pride in their work. Reflecting on his NASA experience, Ted highlighted the strong relationships built within his cohort and the value of learning from fellow CTE leaders across Ohio. He also shared appreciation for the meaningful discussions and leadership opportunities provided throughout the academy experience. Thank you, Ted, for championing meaningful opportunities for students through CTE! ❤️ #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives

NASA Member Spotlight 🌟 Erin Kernohan, Director of Teaching and Learning at Warren County Career Center, has spent the past two years supporting and expanding Career & Technical Education opportunities for students. Erin believes one of the greatest benefits of CTE is the hands-on, career-building experiences students receive - opportunities that often cannot be replicated in a traditional school setting. She is especially excited about the growth and future of advanced manufacturing and its ongoing impact on workforce development across Ohio. She also shared that one of the biggest differences in CTE comes from the instructors themselves and their dedication to helping students thrive in ways they may not have experienced before. Erin encourages aspiring education leaders to visit career centers, talk with instructors, and experience CTE in action firsthand to truly understand its impact. Reflecting on her NASA experience, Erin highlighted the value of collaboration, professional relationships, and visiting CTCs across Ohio to continue learning and sharing ideas with fellow leaders. Thank you, Erin, for your passion and commitment to student success through CTE! ❤️ #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives

The Ohio Chamber’s 2026 Workforce Summit will bring together business leaders, policymakers, educators, and workforce experts to explore the most pressing workforce challenges facing employers today. Sessions will focus on topics such as advanced manufacturing talent needs, AI-driven workforce transformation, upskilling strategies, emerging career pathways, and workforce trends shaping Ohio’s future. 📅 June 11, 2026 📍 Ohio Statehouse 🔗 Register here: ohiochamber.com/events/2026-… #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives

The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce has officially opened the Adult Workforce Diploma Program Provider Application. Beginning July 1, 2026, this new three-year program will replace the 22 Adult High School Diploma Program and the Adult Diploma Program, creating a more flexible, outcomes-driven pathway for adult learners to earn a state-issued high school diploma while advancing their careers. Many Ohio Technical Centers will play a vital role as providers, helping adult learners gain the education and workforce skills needed for success. 📅 Provider applications are due June 5, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Learn more and access the application: education.ohio.gov/Topics/Te… OACTS is proud of the dedication and impact of Ohio’s adult education professionals who continue creating life-changing opportunities for students across the state.

🌟 NASA Member Spotlight Andrea Townsend, Superintendent at Tri-County Career Center, has spent the last decade leading in Career & Technical Education after beginning her career as an agriculture teacher. Andrea believes CTE creates meaningful, real-world learning experiences that help students connect education to future careers and lifelong success. Through hands-on learning, industry credentials, work-based experiences, and strong employer partnerships, students gain practical skills and confidence as they prepare for college, careers, military service, and beyond. She is especially excited about the growth and innovation happening across healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and construction trades pathways - all areas creating strong opportunities for students while supporting Ohio’s workforce needs. Andrea shared that one of the most powerful aspects of CTE is watching students discover confidence, purpose, and a vision for their future through experiences that connect learning to real-world goals. Reflecting on her NASA experience, Andrea highlighted the incredible network of educators and leaders she gained through the program, along with opportunities to visit CTE programs across Ohio and the country to learn new ideas and strengthen her vision for student success. Thank you, Andrea, for continuing to champion opportunities that empower students, strengthen communities, and shape the future of Career & Technical Education across Ohio. #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives

🌟 NASA Member Spotlight 🌟 Matt Campbell of Mahoning County Career & Technical Center has dedicated 25 years to education, including 18 years in Career & Technical Education as both a teacher and administrator. Matt sees CTE as a powerful way to expose students to meaningful opportunities for future success — whether that means entering the workforce immediately after graduation, pursuing higher education, or serving in the military. He also emphasized the impact of hands-on learning, career exploration, and the lifelong connections students build with their teachers through CTE experiences. Matt is especially excited about their new HVAC program launching in the 2026–2027 school year and is interested in seeing how artificial intelligence continues to shape both Career & Technical Education and everyday life. “Visit your local career center to witness firsthand all of the great things being done every day.” Matt encourages aspiring education leaders to experience CTE firsthand and continue building strong relationships with local stakeholders and policymakers to support program growth and student success. Reflecting on his NASA experience, Matt highlighted the value of networking, professional relationships, and exposure to new ideas and information that continue to support his growth as an educational leader. Thank you, Matt, for your leadership and dedication to Ohio’s CTE community! #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives

🌟 NASA Member Spotlight 🌟 Clint Rhodes, Assistant Superintendent at Mid-East CTC, brings more than 20 years of K-12 education experience into his first year in Career & Technical Education leadership. Clint has quickly seen the impact CTE has on students through increased engagement, hands-on learning, and opportunities to earn valuable skills, certifications, and professional connections that prepare them for success both during and after high school. He also shared how impressed he has been by the collaborative culture within Ohio’s CTE community and the willingness of leaders across the state to support one another through shared ideas and innovation. One pathway Clint is especially excited about is Mid-East CTC’s new Fire and EMS program, which will welcome its first class of juniors this coming school year. He is also exploring ways to strengthen apprenticeship opportunities with a local hospital, inspired by the partnerships highlighted during the OACTS Spring Issue Forum. Clint encourages education leaders to find more ways to bring stakeholders into career centers to experience firsthand the incredible work happening inside CTE classrooms and labs every day. Reflecting on his NASA experience, Clint highlighted the relationships and collaborations built among his cohort, along with memorable opportunities to engage with state leadership at the Ohio Statehouse. Thank you, Clint, for your passion and leadership in Ohio’s CTE community! #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives

🌟 NASA Member Spotlight Kaitlyn Randall, Assistant Director of Student Services at Great Oaks Career Campuses, is passionate about helping students connect their education to meaningful career pathways through Career & Technical Education. From a student services perspective, Kaitlyn sees CTE as a powerful way to increase engagement, motivation, and postsecondary readiness by making learning more relevant and connected to real-world opportunities. Through hands-on experiences, certifications, internships, and work-based learning, students gain practical skills while building confidence and direction for their futures. As a former Teaching Professions student herself, Kaitlyn remains especially passionate about Early Childhood Education and Teaching Professions programs. “I would not be where I am today without the opportunity to explore and grow my passion for education in high school.” Kaitlyn also shared that one of the most impactful aspects of CTE is the clarity and purpose it provides students, helping them understand what they are working toward and how their learning connects to future goals. Reflecting on her NASA experience, she described it as a fast-track for growth that expanded her understanding of CTE across Ohio while fostering meaningful collaboration and relationships with colleagues across districts. Thank you, Kaitlyn, for your leadership and dedication to Ohio’s CTE community! ❤️ #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives

Congratulations to Polaris Career Center on the grand opening of its new Engineering Technology, Robotics & Automation program facility! This exciting expansion will provide students with hands-on experience using advanced manufacturing, robotics, and automation technology while preparing them for high-demand careers in STEM and industry sectors critical to Ohio’s economy. We’re excited to see the impact this program will have on students, communities, and the future of advanced manufacturing in Ohio. #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives

Beginning May 14, 2026, eligible institutions can apply through ODHE for Workforce Pell approval - expanding access to Pell Grant funding for short-term programs tied to in-demand careers and strong employment outcomes. Programs must meet federal standards related to completion, job placement, stackable credit, and alignment with Ohio workforce priorities. Learn more: bit.ly/4eMnplM #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives

OACTS congratulates SHP on celebrating its 125th anniversary! 🎉 Thank you for being a Gold Level Sponsor and a great business partner to OACTS. We appreciate your continued support and commitment to strengthening education and communities across Ohio. Congratulations on this incredible milestone! shp.com/2026/02/26/125-years… #OACTS #SHP #125Years #Partnership #CareerTechEd

OACTS is pleased to join in congratulating Vantage Career Center Superintendent Rick Turner on being named the SkillsUSA Ohio Superintendent of the Year! 👏 Announced during the SkillsUSA Ohio State Championship Ceremony in front of more than 8,000 students, advisors, educators, and industry partners, this prestigious recognition honors Superintendent Turner’s outstanding leadership, dedication to career-technical education, and continued support of student success both in and out of the classroom. Under his leadership, Vantage Career Center continues to grow as a leader in career technical education, providing students with hands-on learning, industry credentials, and real-world opportunities that prepare them for successful futures. Congratulations, Superintendent Turner, on this incredible and well-deserved honor! #SkillsUSA #CTEWorks #VantageCareerCenter

NASA Member Spotlight 🌟 OACTS is proud to highlight Jennifer Blackstone, who is a member of our 2025-2026 New and Aspiring Superintendents Academy (NASA). Jennifer Blackstone, Assistant Superintendent at Eastland-Fairfield Career and Technical Schools, has spent the past three school years making an impact in Career & Technical Education through leadership, collaboration, and student-focused innovation. For Jennifer, one of the greatest strengths of CTE is the connection among educators and the shared commitment to student success. She is especially excited about the K2 Energy Pathway and the opportunities it creates for students preparing for future careers. Jennifer also shared that one of the most meaningful parts of CTE is seeing students develop a true sense of belonging through career-focused learning connected to their interests and goals. Her advice for aspiring education leaders: 👉 “Go and see other programs! I learn the most from visits to other schools.” Reflecting on her NASA experience, Jennifer highlighted the relationships built through the program and the opportunity to learn about advocacy and best practices during visits to St. Louis and Washington, D.C. She shared that the bonds formed through NASA will continue to support her throughout her career. Thank you, Jennifer, for your leadership and dedication to Ohio’s CTE community! ❤️

Governor DeWine announced $3.2 million in grants to help Ohio schools expand access to career tech manufacturing programs. The funding will support equipment, instructors, hands-on training, and partnerships that prepare students for high-demand manufacturing careers across Ohio. See grant information here: education.ohio.gov/Topics/Ca… #OACTS #CareerTechEd #Manufacturing #WorkforceDevelopment #OhioEducation #CTE

Career-tech educators are building Ohio’s future workforce every day. 🔧💡 This Teacher Appreciation Week, we’re celebrating the teachers who give students the hands-on skills, confidence, and career pathways that lead to success beyond graduation. Thank you for the impact you make in every lab, classroom, and community. ❤️ Happy Teacher Appreciation Week from OACTS! #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives #TeacherAppreciationWeek

🔧 At career centers across Ohio, students are gaining the skills employers need most. It’s In-Demand Jobs Week - a time to recognize the hands-on learning and career pathways that lead directly to success in today’s workforce! #InDemandJobs #CTEPride #CareerCenters #SkilledWorkforce

🎉 Congratulations to Miami Valley Career Technology Center (MVCTC) on an incredible achievement! Their recruitment video has been recognized with the OHSPRA “Best of the Best” Video Award - a testament to the power of storytelling in career-technical education. This award highlights the impact of strong communication strategies that elevate student voices, showcase hands-on learning, and connect communities to opportunity. ▶️ Watch the award-winning video below and see why it stood out: vimeo.com/957326024?fe=ci&fl… #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives

Registered apprenticeships provide a critical talent pipeline that can help address some of our nation’s most pressing workforce challenges. In Ohio, many of our career centers offer registered apprenticeships to both secondary and adult students. We also thank the many industry partners who collaborate with us to make apprenticeships available to youth and adults. #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives

Happy Administrative Professionals Day! 💼 Thank you to the dedicated professionals who keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes. We appreciate you today and every day. #CareerTechOhio #CTEWorks #CareerTechChangesLives