95th Annual Illinois Association for Career and Technical Education Conference

Dive into a dynamic workshop designed to empower middle school students through Career and Technical Education (CTE). This session will explore innovative strategies to integrate work-based learning opportunities that connect students with real-world experiences early on. Participants will discover how to foster career exploration in a way that excites young learners about their future possibilities while cultivating essential leadership skills. Join Haley Gruber (Cambridge Jr./Sr. High), Elise Main (ROWVA Jr./ Sr. High), and John Heiser (FCAE), as we share practical tools and insights that can transform your CTE program, helping students navigate their career paths and develop into tomorrow’s leaders.

In this session, career and technical educators will learn practical strategies to enhance their teaching efficiency and effectiveness. Designed to empower teachers, the presentation will cover key tools to foster student engagement, integrate hands-on activities, and create positive learning environments. Participants will leave with ready-to-use classroom management resources. Whether you're new to teaching or looking to refine your approach, attending this session will impact your content delivery.

The focus of this presentation is on the recruitment of women for traditionally male occupations. Women fair well in math, science, and other technical areas and should be scouted for positions in the Trades; a skilled job, typically one requiring manual skills and special training (Welding, Automotive, Construction, etc.). Attendees will learn to seek women with technical skills to fulfill greatly needed vacancies in the trades. Females with technical backgrounds can benefit from non-traditional roles and occupations and bring qualities such as attention to detail, safety, and the ability to follow detailed instruction.