2026 CACTE CareerTech Summit: Full Schedule

2026 CACTE CAREERTECH SUMMIT WELCOMES YOU!
July 19-23, 2026
PUEBLO CONVENTION CENTER
Pueblo, CO

FAQs and up-to-date conference information can be found on the 2026 CACTE CareerTech Summit Page.
Registration rates, lodging information, and the Call for Proposals link are located there.

For General Conference Questions, contact Sheri Bryant, Assistant Director & Conference Coordinator, at [email protected]
For Exhibitor Questions and Support, contact Janet Brophy, Summit Assistant, at [email protected]

1:00pm MDT

CACTE Executive Committee (EC) Lunch & Meeting

Sunday July 19, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm MDT

Meeting Room 4/5

Sunday July 19, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Meeting Room 4/5 Pueblo Convention Center

Special Session/Meeting

5:00pm MDT

Registration Check-in Open

Sunday July 19, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT

Registration Desk - Outside Fortino Hall

Check in for the 2026 CACTE Summit - pick up your name badge, find fun badge ribbons and get acclimated to the Summit!

Sunday July 19, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Registration Desk - Outside Fortino Hall Pueblo Convention Center

Registration and Help Desk

7:30am MDT

AM Beverage Service (included for all)

Monday July 20, 2026 7:30am - 11:30am MDT

PCC Hallways

Enjoy coffee, hot tea and/or iced tea while you visit with fellow attendees.

Monday July 20, 2026 7:30am - 11:30am MDT
PCC Hallways Pueblo Convention Center

7:30am MDT

Registration Check-in Open

Monday July 20, 2026 7:30am - 7:00pm MDT

Check in for the 2026 CACTE Summit - pick up your name badge, find fun badge ribbons and get acclimated to the Summit!

Monday July 20, 2026 7:30am - 7:00pm MDT

Registration and Help Desk

8:30am MDT

CDE E-Train Part II (pre-registration required)

Monday July 20, 2026 8:30am - 4:00pm MDT

Grand Hall West

E-Train Part II is a one-day, in-person training focused on processing and practicing the content covered in Part I. Reflections and content from Part I are used during the Part II session.General Overview:Each training begins promptly at 8:30am and concludes by 4:00pm.Space will be limited to a maximum of 40 participants per training, with a minimum of 10 participants – these...
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Monday July 20, 2026 8:30am - 4:00pm MDT
Grand Hall West Pueblo Convention Center

Special Session/Meeting

9:00am MDT

CCCS CTE Credentialing Session (pre-registration required)

Monday July 20, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm MDT

Exhibit Hall A2

This pre-conference session requires that all session attendees also register for the CACTE CareerTech Summit with a separate ticket purchase. This is necessary to fulfill the additional assignments and clock hours to be eligible to apply for the Secondary CTE Credential in Colorado. Please bring a laptop with WiFi connectivity to complete tasks while at the conference.

Speakers

Jennifer Cormier

Director of CTE Program Quality, Colorado Community College System

Jennifer Cormier serves as Director of CTE Program Quality for Colorado CTE, where she focuses on supporting and advancing CTE programs statewide. She previously served as Program Director for Business and before that taught high school business while advising an active DECA chapter... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Exhibit Hall A2 Pueblo Convention Center

Special Session/Meeting

10:00am MDT

2025-2026 CACTE Board Meeting

Monday July 20, 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm MDT

Meeting Room 4/5

The 2025-2026 Board will conduct the business of the Association, along with invited guests.

Monday July 20, 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Meeting Room 4/5 Pueblo Convention Center

Special Session/Meeting

12:00pm MDT

"Pass the Torch" with 25/26 & 26/27 CACTE Board Members

Monday July 20, 2026 12:00pm - 12:30pm MDT

Meeting Room 4/5

Time for the outgoing and incoming CACTE Boards to meet together to share important information as the leadership torch is passed from one team to the next.

Facilitator

Michelle Dennis

President-elect, CACTE

Monday July 20, 2026 12:00pm - 12:30pm MDT
Meeting Room 4/5 Pueblo Convention Center

Special Session/Meeting

12:30pm MDT

Pre-Paid Buffet Lunch (Ticketholders only)

Monday July 20, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm MDT

Fortino Grand Hall A/B

Pre-Paid Buffet Lunch for:

CCCS Credentialing Session Attendees

2025/26 CACTE Board Members

2025/27 CACTE Board Members

A Meal Ticket is required and included in the paid registration of the above attendee groups.

Monday July 20, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm MDT
Fortino Grand Hall A/B Pueblo Convention Center

1:30pm MDT

2026-2027 CACTE Board Orientation & Buffet Lunch

Monday July 20, 2026 1:30pm - 4:30pm MDT

Meeting Room 4/5

Are you part of the incoming 2026-2027 CACTE Board? Then this Lunch & Orientation is for you! Learn more about your role and the resources available to help you fulfill your responsibilities.

Speakers

Chaney Mosley

Teacher Educator, Middle Tennessee State University

Dr. Chaney Mosley is a career and technical education professional, teacher educator, and former National President of the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE). With more than 20 years of experience spanning classroom teaching, educator preparation, research, outreach... Read More →

Sean Norman

Dir of Applied & Advanced Learning, School District 49

As Director of Applied and Advanced Learning, I am a strategic leader dedicated to expanding student pathways. My background spans roles from classroom teacher to Principal, focusing on CTE, concurrent enrollment, and work-based learning. I specialize in designing comprehensive programming... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 1:30pm - 4:30pm MDT
Meeting Room 4/5 Pueblo Convention Center

Special Session/Meeting

2:45pm MDT

Afternoon Snack (included for all)

Monday July 20, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT

PCC Hallways

Monday July 20, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
PCC Hallways Pueblo Convention Center

4:00pm MDT

Exhibitor Check-in and Setup

Monday July 20, 2026 4:00pm - 7:00pm MDT

PCC Hallways

Exhibitors: Check-in at the conference registration table located outside of the Fortino Grand Hall A/B.
Janet Brophy, Summit Assistant, will direct you to the assigned table and assist with shipping logistics pickup.

Facilitator

Janet Brophy

Summit Assistant, CACTE

Monday July 20, 2026 4:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
PCC Hallways Pueblo Convention Center

Exhibitors

5:30pm MDT

CACTE Board Dinner (Invite only)

Monday July 20, 2026 5:30pm - 7:00pm MDT

Shamrock Brewery (walkable)

Walking Map

Shamrock Brewing Company, 108 W. 3rd Street, Pueblo

Join the CACTE Executive Committee as we celebrate the progress of the 25/26 CACTE Board and welcome our new members of the 26/27 CACTE Board.

This event is by invitation only.

Monday July 20, 2026 5:30pm - 7:00pm MDT
Shamrock Brewery (walkable) 108 W. 3rd Street, Pueblo, CO 81003

6:30am MDT

Exhibitors Setup

Tuesday July 21, 2026 6:30am - 8:00am MDT

PCC Hallways

Check-in at the Registration Desk for table location and assistance with any materials shipped to the convention center.

Tuesday July 21, 2026 6:30am - 8:00am MDT
PCC Hallways Pueblo Convention Center

Exhibitors

7:00am MDT

Morning Beverage Service, sponsored by iCEV (included for all)

Tuesday July 21, 2026 7:00am - 11:00am MDT

PCC Hallways

Enjoy coffee, hot tea and/or iced tea while you visit with fellow attendees.

Tuesday July 21, 2026 7:00am - 11:00am MDT
PCC Hallways Pueblo Convention Center

7:00am MDT

Registration Check-in Desk Open

Tuesday July 21, 2026 7:00am - 2:00pm MDT

Registration Desk - Outside Fortino Hall

Check in for the 2026 CACTE Summit - pick up your name badge, find fun badge ribbons and get acclimated to the Summit!

Tuesday July 21, 2026 7:00am - 2:00pm MDT
Registration Desk - Outside Fortino Hall Pueblo Convention Center

Registration and Help Desk

8:00am MDT

Exhibitors Open

Tuesday July 21, 2026 8:00am - 5:30pm MDT

PCC Hallways

Visit the wonderful exhibitors who support Colorado ACTE and YOU with their presence at the CACTE Summit!

Tuesday July 21, 2026 8:00am - 5:30pm MDT
PCC Hallways Pueblo Convention Center

Exhibitors

8:45am MDT

First-Time Attendees Orientation

Tuesday July 21, 2026 8:45am - 9:15am MDT

Fortino Grand Hall A/B

Join the CACTE Executive Committee as we kick-off the first full day of the summer conference.

Learn about our association structure, some tips and tricks for navigating the SCHED app, and make some new connections before General Session 1.

Attending by yourself? Find other first-timers with the same division ribbon and start creating your CTE network!

Tuesday July 21, 2026 8:45am - 9:15am MDT
Fortino Grand Hall A/B Pueblo Convention Center

General Sessions

9:30am MDT

General Session One

Tuesday July 21, 2026 9:30am - 11:00am MDT

Fortino Grand Hall A/B

Welcome to the 2026 CACTE CareerTech Summit! Tara Bell, CACTE President, will preside over our first general session. Thank you to our conference sponsor, iCEV!Get a glimpse of what the next three days will hold for networking, learning, and creating a memorable experience for all attendees. Ready to win some drawing prizes? Check out the ticket sales table near...
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Speakers

Chaney Mosley

Teacher Educator, Middle Tennessee State University

Tuesday July 21, 2026 9:30am - 11:00am MDT
Fortino Grand Hall A/B Pueblo Convention Center

General Sessions

9:45am MDT

KEYNOTE: Teaching Complex, Challenging, & Thought-Provoking Topics in CTE With Confidence and Care

Tuesday July 21, 2026 9:45am - 10:50am MDT

Fortino Grand Hall A/B

Speakers

Chaney Mosley

Teacher Educator, Middle Tennessee State University

Tuesday July 21, 2026 9:45am - 10:50am MDT
Fortino Grand Hall A/B Pueblo Convention Center

General Sessions

11:00am MDT

Visit Exhibitors

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:00am - 11:20am MDT

PCC Hallways

Visit the wonderful exhibitors who support Colorado ACTE and YOU with their presence at the CACTE Summit!

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:00am - 11:20am MDT
PCC Hallways Pueblo Convention Center

Exhibitors

11:20am MDT

Aligning CTE Programs to Regional Workforce Needs with iCEV

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT

Meeting Room 2/3

Colorado’s Career and Technical Education programs play a critical role in supporting Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness by helping learners demonstrate essential skills, complete meaningful career planning through ICAP, and transition successfully into postsecondary education or the workforce. In this session, explore how iCEV delivers industry-aligned curriculum and credential preparation,...
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Speakers

Angie Daly

Territory Manager, iCEV

Angie Daly is a dedicated Career and Technical Education (CTE) leader who is passionate about empowering educators and students. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education from Colorado State University and began her career as an Agriculture Education Teacher, helping... Read More →

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT
Meeting Room 2/3 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

11:20am MDT

Careers in Construction Colorado: An Authentic Industry Sponsored CTE Pathway

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT

Meeting Room 4/5

Learn how the Careers in Construction Colorado (CICC) model unites the construction industry to educate, empower, and employ students. This model is designed to support students with industry recognized curriculum and training that meets industry standards, and to connect them with employers in the geographic areas in which they live. We partner with Trade Associations or other business...
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Speakers

Nikki Carter

CTE Director, Widefield School District 3

Nikki Carter serves as the CTE Director for Widefield District 3, where she has worked since 2005. Previous roles include Business Teacher and Work-Based Learning Coordinator. Currently, she oversees Perkins, program approvals, CTA reporting, and supports Widefield’s off-site skilled... Read More →

Glenn Hard

Director of Recruitment and Retention, Careers in Construction Colorado

Careers in Construction Colorado is a non-profit oraganization who unites the construction industry to facilitate construction trades programs in high schools.

Kolleen Johnson

Retired

Kolleen Johnson is the Executive Director of Student Services in Manitou Springs School District. She’s been a building and district leader for 13 years. She is the PWR director and has been a partner with CICC for 7 years. She believes career-connected learning is the best programming... Read More →

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT
Meeting Room 4/5 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

11:20am MDT

Conference Planning Made Easy: Tips & Tricks for Success

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT

Fortino Grand Hall C-East

Whether you're organizing an intimate one-day seminar or an expansive multi-day conference, the difference between a seamless event and a chaotic one often comes down to preparation. This workshop equips planners of all experience levels with the essential tools, strategies, and insider knowledge needed to execute a successful conference from start to finish.Through practical guidance and...
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Speakers

Jody Bennett

Program Director - BMEF, Colorado Community College System

Jody Bennett is the new Program Director for Business, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, and Finance. As the leader of the BMEF team she is fortunate to work with a team of conference planning experts in Molly Davis (FBLA), Brad Peer (DECA) and John Tower. She has successfully coordinated... Read More →

Brad Peer

Asst Prog Dir - DECA State Advisor, Colorado Community College System

Brad Peer is the Assistant Program Director and State Advisor for Colorado DECA. In his eighth year as the DECA State Advisor he has learned many different tips and tricks for working with small venues to large scale resorts. Overseeing an annual conference of over 4000 attendees... Read More →

Molly Davis

Asst Prog Dir/FBLA State Adviser, Colorado Community College System

Molly Davis is the Assistant Program Director and State Adviser for Colorado Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). In her fourth year of conference planning, she has perfected a variety of small things that lead to big successes. Molly has coordinated 1, 2, and 3+ day conferences... Read More →

Conference Planning Made Easy CACTE 2026 pptx

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT
Fortino Grand Hall C-East Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

11:20am MDT

Leadership Accountability Conversations: A Framework for CTE Educators & Leaders

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT

Exhibit Hall A1

This interactive session introduces the Leadership Accountability Conversation (LAC) Models—structured approaches for CTE administrators, educators, and leaders to foster accountability in educational settings for both students and adults. Participants will explore how different situations require different approaches, practice applying a model, and consider implementation strategies to promote...
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Speakers

Chaney Mosley

Teacher Educator, Middle Tennessee State University

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT
Exhibit Hall A1 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

11:20am MDT

Let’s Go Fish! Casting for Community Partners and Opportunities

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT

Exhibit Hall A2

Building strong community partnerships doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—it can be as fun and strategic as going fishing! In this session, we’ll show you how to cast your line with confidence—cold calling, connecting, and marketing your school or program’s needs to attract the right collaborators. Using a “catch and release” approach, you’ll see examples, learn best practices,...
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Speakers

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 →

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT
Exhibit Hall A2 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

11:20am MDT

Program Quality Isn't a Catch Phrase, It's Our Business (Innovation Grant Panel)

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT

Heroes Pavillion

Do you have a bold idea, but need help with how to fund it? This panel of Innovations in CTE grant recipients will deliver highlights of their projects designed to improve quality and expand access to CTE. We will share tips for educators and administrators trying to put together a proposal likely to be funded that highlights partnership and bold thinking for the benefit of learners....
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Speakers

Victoria Crownover

Associate State Director of CTE, Colorado Community College System

Victoria is the Associate State CTE Director and will serve as a facilitator for CTE and Julesburg, Lamar Community College, Littleton, Strasburg, Westminster, and Woodland Park team members implementing FY26 Innovations in CTE Grant projects who will be featured.

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT
Heroes Pavillion Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

11:20am MDT

Stukent CTE - Courses, Simternships, Certification Prep, & Certifications

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT

Murphy Sitter Room (Marriott)

Stukent CTE provides access to world-class courseware, simulations, cert prep, and certifications. Business Content Areas: Business, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Finance, & Accounting Agriculture Content Areas: Intro to Ag, AgBiz, Plant Science, Animal Science, Ag Mechanics, & Floral DesignHospitality Content Areas: Principles of Hospitality and Tourism Management, & Culinary...
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Speakers

Liv Pratt

Teacher Success Manager, Stukent CTE

Stukent CTE exists to help teachers help students help the world. They do this by providing access to world-class courseware, simulations, cert prep, and certifications.

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:10pm MDT
Murphy Sitter Room (Marriott) Marriott Courtyard

Breakout Sessions

11:20am MDT

Teaching Financial Literacy: Empowering Educators Through Innovative Partnership

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm MDT

Fortino Grand Hall C-West

Discover how a pioneering partnership with one of Colorado’s largest school districts is transforming the landscape of personal finance education. Through a comprehensive “train-the-trainer” model, educators from 11 high schools have been equipped to deliver rigorous, standards-aligned instruction that bridges classroom learning with authentic financial decision-making. This collaborative...
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Speakers

Candace Dobert

Business Dept. Chair/Accounting Faculty, Arapahoe Community College

Candace Dobert holds master’s degrees in Teaching and Accounting & Finance. She brings extensive experience from industry and secondary education to Arapahoe Community College, where she teaches accounting and leads the Business Department. Candace is dedicated to preparing students... Read More →

Ivan Nikolaeff PhD

Business Faculty, Arapahoe Community College

Ivan Nikolaeff is a Doctor of Education in Educational Technology and a 25-year higher education veteran specializing in experiential learning, mobile technology, and business simulation. A researcher, adventurer, and lifelong learner, he transforms diverse classrooms through empathy... Read More →

Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm MDT
Fortino Grand Hall C-West Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

12:20pm MDT

Legislative Buffet Luncheon, sponsored by TOSA by Isograd (included for all)

Tuesday July 21, 2026 12:20pm - 1:50pm MDT

Fortino Grand Hall A/B

Learn about the 2026 Colorado Legislative Session, CTE impacts, and what our 1st and 2nd yr CACTE Legislative Fellows have learned through their experience.

Facilitator

Wendy Rhodes

PWR Director, Colorado Early Colleges

Speakers

Nikki Carter

CTE Director, Widefield School District 3

Tonette Salazar

Legislative Advocate, Salazar & Associates

Tonette Salazar has more than 25 years of experience in Colorado’s legislative and political
arenas. A seasoned lobbyist, she has successfully advanced policies in education, housing,
workforce development, immigration, consumer protection, tax policy, and the state budget.
Known... Read More →

2026 7.CACTE .Summit.Tonette.Leg.Update.presentation pdf

Tuesday July 21, 2026 12:20pm - 1:50pm MDT
Fortino Grand Hall A/B Pueblo Convention Center

2:00pm MDT

Better Together: Strengthening CTE Through Relationships That Work

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT

Exhibit Hall A2

This session focuses on building stronger connections between CTE teachers, administrators, and district leaders to better support students and strengthen programs. We’ll explore simple, practical ways to improve communication, build a shared vision, and make collaboration more intentional across all levels of CTE.Designed for teachers, coordinators, and administrators, participants will walk...
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Speakers

Leslee Herre

CTE Lead, DCSD, Career & Technical Education

Leslee Herre began her Career and Technical Education (CTE) journey teaching Family and Consumer Sciences before becoming the Douglas County School District’s CTE Lead. She is passionate about helping students find their spark, connect it to meaningful learning, and build confidence... Read More →

Natalie Johnson

Assistant Principal, DCSD, Legend High School

Natalie Johnson is an experienced educator with 22 years in education, including 16 years teaching CTE Business and Marketing at the high school and college levels and six years in high school CTE administration. She prioritizes strong relationships, hands-on learning, and supporting... Read More →

Keri Stuebinger

Asst Director of PWR, DCSD

Keri Stuebinger, Assistant Director of Postsecondary Readiness, brings over 20 years in Douglas County School District. She expands access to CTE, Concurrent Enrollment, and Work-Based Learning, creating aligned academic pathways. Grounded in relationships, her student-centered approach... Read More →

CACTE 2026 Presentation pdf

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Exhibit Hall A2 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

2:00pm MDT

Early Career Literacy for Future Ready Students

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT

Fortino Grand Hall C-West

Looking for ways to fill your CTE student pipeline? It starts with early career literacy where students explore career options and connect them with CTE opportunities. This session introduces strategies to encourage career awareness in K-8 classrooms. With natural entry points into both core and career-focused classrooms, early career literacy expands career discovery, encourages...
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Speakers

Diane Lindsey Reeves

Author & Book Producer, Bright Futures Press

Diane is an author and book producer whose work focuses on early career literacy. Her company, Bright Futures Press, offers an 89-title middle grade career exploration collection of books with ten series that tap into student curiosity with hooks like career clusters, STEM, personal... Read More →

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Fortino Grand Hall C-West Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

2:00pm MDT

From Classroom to Career: How Teamship Supports WBL

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT

Murphy Sitter Room (Marriott)

Colorado school districts are finding practical, scalable ways to expand high-quality career learning while advancing the Big Three and strengthening partnerships with local employers. This session explores how these efforts are helping districts build a more career-ready student population without overextending staff capacity.Attendees will learn proven strategies for bridging the gap between...
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Speakers

Chris Hughes

Director, District Partnerships, College Board- Teamship

I am 20+ year educator who is extremely passionate about all things CTE, WBL, PBL, Equity, and Accessibility.

Noah Hurianek

Director - State & District Partnerships, College Board - Teamship

As a seventh-generation educator, I bring a deep-rooted passion for education and a commitment to supporting all students in their academic journeys. My extensive background as a high school administrator has equipped me with the skills and insights necessary to effectively lead and... Read More →

From Classroom To Career How Teamship Supports WBL pptx

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Murphy Sitter Room (Marriott) Marriott Courtyard

Breakout Sessions

2:00pm MDT

Scalable Work-Based Learning for All Students

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT

Heroes Pavillion

As Colorado and its school districts come together to expand access to postsecondary credit, work-based learning, and industry-recognized credentials, a critical question remains: how do we ensure students are truly prepared to succeed in these experiences and in the workforce beyond them? In response to the "Big Three", Junior Achievement has designed a no-cost, engaging work-based learning...
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Speakers

Lisa Hollingsworth

Internship Coordinator, Mapleton Early Career Prep

Lisa Hollingworth has been a dedicated educator for 25 years and currently serves as Internship Coordinator at Mapleton Early Career Prep. Lisa was selected as JA Educator of the Year in 2025, and recently won the ACTE Rising Star Award.

Christy Biedron

Senior Director of Education, Junior Achievement-Rocky Mountain

Christy Biedron is the Senior Director of Education at Junior Achievement, a statewide organization that provides no-cost career-connected and work-based learning opportunities and financial literacy curriculum to Colorado schools and teachers.

JA Work Based Learning pdf

CACTE WBL 2026 pdf

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Heroes Pavillion Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

2:00pm MDT

Small Shifts, Big Impact in Making Math Visible in CTE Classrooms.

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT

Meeting Room 2/3

CTE classrooms offer powerful opportunities to make mathematics relevant through real-world application. This interactive session explores practical strategies for integrating math into CTE instruction using clear success criteria and formative assessment tools. Attendees will explore strategies for identifying math within their programs, aligning CTE...
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Speakers

Erin Brewer

Integrated Math CTE Teacher, Cherry Creek School District

Erin Brewer is a mathematics educator at the Cherry Creek Innovation Campus who integrates core math concepts with real‑world CTE applications. She designs engaging, industry-aligned learning experiences that strengthen students’ problem‑solving and technical reasoning skills... Read More →

Jennifer Cormier

Director of CTE Program Quality, Colorado Community College System

Emily Fickbohm

Dir CTE Accountability & Performance, CCCS

Emily Fickbohm began her career in education as an agriculture education teacher on the eastern plains, where she taught for 9 years. She later served as Dean of Students and Principal before joining the Colorado Community College System in 2021, first as Program Director of Agriculture... Read More →

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Meeting Room 2/3 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

2:00pm MDT

The Big Three Tool Kit- The CTE Super Power!

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT

Exhibit Hall A1

By 2029, every Colorado high school graduate must hit at least one of the state's "Big Three" milestones: earning college credit, attaining an industry-recognized credential, or completing quality work-based learning. While these mandates may seem daunting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs possess the unique "superpower" to achieve all three outcomes simultaneously within a single...
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Speakers

Sean Norman

Dir of Applied & Advanced Learning, School District 49

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm MDT
Exhibit Hall A1 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

2:00pm MDT

Legislative Committee Meeting

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm MDT

Meeting Room 4/5

Interested in how the work of the Colorado Legislature impacts Colorado CTE? Want to make a difference in policy? Sit in on the CACTE Legislative Committee meeting to learn more about CACTE’s advocacy with our Colorado legislators. The committee will be discussing the 26/27 meeting calendar and look ahead to the 2027 CACTE Legislative Priorities.

Facilitator

Wendy Rhodes

PWR Director, Colorado Early Colleges

Speakers

Tonette Salazar

Legislative Advocate, Salazar & Associates

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm MDT
Meeting Room 4/5 Pueblo Convention Center

Special Session/Meeting

2:45pm MDT

Afternoon Snack w/ Exhibitors, sponsored by iCEV

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:45pm - 3:30pm MDT

PCC Hallways

Enjoy a snack while you visit with the exhibitors - they are very supportive of Colorado CTE and CACTE and YOU!

Tuesday July 21, 2026 2:45pm - 3:30pm MDT
PCC Hallways Pueblo Convention Center

Exhibitors

3:10pm MDT

Bridging the Gap with Standards-Aligned & Hands-On Curriculum

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT

Exhibit Hall A2

This session explores the gap between classroom learning and clinical practice in health science education, examining its causes and impact on student readiness and patient safety. Health science educators, program coordinators, and clinical instructors will gain actionable strategies to align standards-based curriculum with hands-on learning, bridging this divide. Attendees will learn to conduct...
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Speakers

Mackenzie Finnegan

Account Manager, National Healthcareer Association (NHA)

NHA's vision is to bridge the gap between learners, educators, and employers.

Exhibitors

Mackenzie Finnegan

Account Manager, National Healthcareer Association (NHA)

NHA's vision is to bridge the gap between learners, educators, and employers.

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT
Exhibit Hall A2 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

3:10pm MDT

Building Powerful Partnerships: How Educators Can Leverage Local Industry Associations

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT

Meeting Room 4/5

Want stronger, more sustainable work-based learning partnerships? Start with your local industry association—and a system that helps make those partnerships last. This session introduces educators to a national playbook from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the system-building framework of Careers in Construction Colorado and their work building a strong Industry...
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Speakers

Marlo Asher

Director of Opperations, Careers in Construction Colorado

Marlo Asher is Director of Operations at Careers in Construction Colorado (CICC), where she has advanced workforce pathways since 2019, helping thousands of students explore and enter construction careers. Passionate about community impact, she is dedicated to guiding the next generation... Read More →

Becca Wray

Program Manager, Student Chapters, National Association of Home Builders

NAHB represents the largest network of craftsmen, innovators and problem solvers dedicated to building and enriching communities.

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT
Meeting Room 4/5 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

3:10pm MDT

Career Connections; Western States Carpenters Premier Pre Apprenticeship Program

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT

Murphy Sitter Room (Marriott)

Career Connections is Western States Carpenters’ premier pre-apprenticeship program. Our mission is to develop partnerships within the educational community. Our program provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills needed to choose a career in the construction industry. 1. The session will be about the Career Connections program; the training offered to students and opportunities...
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Speakers

Ruben Arneros

Auxillary Rep, Career Connections

Steven Dudley

Outreach Specialist, Western States Reg Council of Carpenters

Career Connections is Western States Carpenters premier pre-apprenticeship program. Our mission is to develop partnerships within the educational community. Our program provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills needed to choose a career in the construction industr... Read More →

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT
Murphy Sitter Room (Marriott) Marriott Courtyard

Breakout Sessions

3:10pm MDT

CTE Delivers...The Big 3 In Action (Innovation Grant Panel)

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT

Heroes Pavillion

This session features a panel presentation of 6 unique projects in rural, urban and suburban settings across the state that have expanded districts' capacity to deliver on the promise of the Big 3. Administrators and teachers will benefit from hearing what worked, what didn't, and how districts and colleges can partner to expand access to work-based learning (in rural areas), college credit,...
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Speakers

Victoria Crownover

Associate State Director of CTE, Colorado Community College System

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT
Heroes Pavillion Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

3:10pm MDT

Escaping the IT Stereotype: Interactive Recruitment via Escape Rooms

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT

Fortino Grand Hall C-East

This session is designed for secondary CTE instructors and program coordinators who face challenges in student recruitment and retention, particularly within the Engineering and Technology career clusters. It is ideal for educators looking for "hands-on" ways to showcase their curriculum to middle and high school students who may have little to no prior exposure to IT. The content addresses the...
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Speakers

Bobbie Bastian

Computer Science and Cybersecurity Instructor, FutureForward at Bollman

Bobbie Bastian, a veteran educator at FutureForward at Bollman, is a recognized leader in Computer Science with 19 years of experience. She is the ETMA division President and a contributor to national cybersecurity standards, and facilitates AP Cybersecurity and Networking sessions... Read More →

Escape Room pdf

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT
Fortino Grand Hall C-East Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

3:10pm MDT

Preparing ALL CTE Students for an AI-Driven Workforce

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT

Exhibit Hall A1

AI is reshaping every career field our students will enter. From AI-assisted diagnostics in health science to generative design in skilled trades, from automated inventory in business to intelligent code generation in engineering, no CTE pathway is untouched. Yet most AI literacy efforts remain siloed in computer science classrooms, leaving the majority of CTE students underprepared.This session...
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Speakers

Colton Fairbourn

Account Executive, Skill Struck

Colton Fairbourn is a dedicated advocate for computer science and digital literacy as equalizers for student opportunity. He believes every student deserves access to robust CS education and that student futures are being shaped now through the workforce skills built in today's c... Read More →

Megan Garnhart

Executive Director, Wyoming Association for Career and Technical Education (WACTE)

Megan Garnhart is Executive Director of the Wyoming Association for Career and Technical Education (WACTE), the Product and Efficacy Specialist for Skill Struck, and a former elementary and CTE classroom educator with over a decade of experience. She holds a Master's in Curriculum... Read More →

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT
Exhibit Hall A1 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

3:10pm MDT

The PIP Path: Turning Life and Career into Opportunity

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT

Fortino Grand Hall C-West

Through the PIP Path of entrepreneurship, educators learn to think like entrepreneurs discovering who they are, embracing innovation, and creating interactive learning experiences that ignite student potential.

Speakers

Jeffrey Lund

Founder/Lead Consultant, The TAJL Group

Jeffrey is a Lead Consultant, Master Certified Life Coach, and Entrepreneurial Mindset Facilitator who empowers others to unlock their potential. With an MBA and leadership experience in education and business, he designs innovative, real-world learning programs and helps individuals... Read More →

CACTE Conference Presentation pptx

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT
Fortino Grand Hall C-West Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

3:10pm MDT

Using Data to Work Smarter, Not Harder

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT

Meeting Room 2/3

Data doesn't have to feel like one more thing on your plate. This session is for CTE educators and administrators who aren't sure which data actually matters for program quality. We'll look at what your program is already telling you through quality assurance results, advisory committees, work-based learning participation, and state dashboard indicators. Working in small groups, attendees will dig...
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Speakers

Jennifer Cormier

Director of CTE Program Quality, Colorado Community College System

Tuesday July 21, 2026 3:10pm - 4:00pm MDT
Meeting Room 2/3 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

4:10pm MDT

CACTE Annual Business Meeting - OPEN TO ALL ATTENDEES

Tuesday July 21, 2026 4:10pm - 5:10pm MDT

Fortino Grand Hall A/B

Be an active part of your professional association! Hear the reports of activities over the past year from the officers, committees, divisions and liaisons. Be an engaged member! Drawings!

2026 7 21.CACTE.AnnualBizMtg.agenda 2 pdf

2025 7 24.APPROVED.CACTE.AnnualBizMtg.MINUTES pdf

2026.ED.report AnnBizMtg pdf

Tuesday July 21, 2026 4:10pm - 5:10pm MDT
Fortino Grand Hall A/B Pueblo Convention Center

General Sessions

5:10pm MDT

Visit Exhibitors

Tuesday July 21, 2026 5:10pm - 5:30pm MDT

PCC Hallways

Visit the wonderful exhibitors who support Colorado ACTE and YOU with their presence at the CACTE Summit!

Tuesday July 21, 2026 5:10pm - 5:30pm MDT
PCC Hallways Pueblo Convention Center

Exhibitors

5:30pm MDT

Department of Corrections (CDOC) Meeting

Tuesday July 21, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm MDT

Exhibit Hall A2

All CDOC attendees should attend. CDOC staff will host this meet-up. Please plan on approximately an hour.

Tuesday July 21, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm MDT
Exhibit Hall A2 Pueblo Convention Center

Special Session/Meeting

7:30am MDT

Morning Beverage Service, sponsored by CWDC (included for all)

Wednesday July 22, 2026 7:30am - 11:30am MDT

PCC Hallways

Enjoy coffee, hot tea and/or iced tea while you visit with fellow attendees.

Wednesday July 22, 2026 7:30am - 11:30am MDT
PCC Hallways Pueblo Convention Center

7:30am MDT

Registration Check-in Desk Open

Wednesday July 22, 2026 7:30am - 12:00pm MDT

Registration Desk - Outside Fortino Hall

Check in for the 2026 CACTE Summit - pick up your name badge, find fun badge ribbons and get acclimated to the Summit!

Wednesday July 22, 2026 7:30am - 12:00pm MDT
Registration Desk - Outside Fortino Hall Pueblo Convention Center

Registration and Help Desk

8:00am MDT

Exhibitors Open

Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:00am - 1:45pm MDT

PCC Hallways

Exhibitors will be available for a shorter day, before wrapping up their time at the 2026 CACTE CareerTech Summit!

Grab those final business cards, don't forget to use our cool QR CODE on the name badge, and be ready to advocate back in your building for the cool tools, resources, and equipment to bring high-quality CTE programming to your students and staff!

THANK YOU TO OUR 2026 EXHIBITORS!

Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:00am - 1:45pm MDT
PCC Hallways Pueblo Convention Center

Exhibitors

8:30am MDT

General Session Two

Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am MDT

Fortino Grand Hall A/B

This general session will bring greetings and updated information at both the national and state levels.

Thank you to our Division Day Sponsor, Colorado Workforce Development Council for their generous sponsorship toward today's food and beverage events and the continued work in 26/27 of expanded support for focus on work-based learning professional development.

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 →

Victoria Crownover

Associate State Director of CTE, Colorado Community College System

State of the State CACTE July 2026 pdf

CACTE General Session July2026 pptx

Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am MDT
Fortino Grand Hall A/B Pueblo Convention Center

General Sessions

10:15am MDT

Colorado CTE Updates w/ Program Directors & CTSO State Leaders

Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am MDT

Room locations vary by division

Administration and PACE - Exhibit Hall A1Agriculture - Marriott-Meeting Room 2Business -Meeting Room 4/5Counseling & Career Development AND ACE -Fortino Grand Hall C-EastEngineering, Technology & Media Arts -Heroes PavilionFamily and Consumer Sciences -Murphy Sitter Room (Marriott)Health and Public Safety, Law Enforcement - Meeting Room 3Skilled Trades -Fortino Grand Hall C-WestWork-Based Learning...
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Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am MDT
Room locations vary by division Pueblo Convention Center

Division Day

11:30am MDT

CACTE Awards Luncheon & Officer Installation, sponsored by CWDC (included for all)

Wednesday July 22, 2026 11:30am - 1:15pm MDT

Fortino Grand Hall A/B

Come celebrate Colorado’s brightest champions with us! Each year CACTE is delighted to honor the educational leaders, teachers, students, and community members who are creating new opportunities and innovation across Colorado CTE. We’re especially excited to recognize the outstanding members chosen to serve as officers on the CACTE Executive Committee for 2026–27. Join us in cheering them...
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Wednesday July 22, 2026 11:30am - 1:15pm MDT
Fortino Grand Hall A/B Pueblo Convention Center

General Sessions

1:30pm MDT

ACE-CTE for All Division Day Programming

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT

Exhibit Hall A2

AFTERNOON SCHEDULE:

1:30-2:00-Annual Business Meeting
2:00-3:00-Collaboration & Care (ACE/CCD/PACE)
3:00-3:10-Grab Snack & Travel Time to Pueblo Community College Tour
900 W Orman Ave, Pueblo, CO 81004
3:15-4:45-Campus Tour OR Team Talk
5:00-Depart for Social Activity at Gold Dust Saloon

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Exhibit Hall A2 Pueblo Convention Center

Division Day

1:30pm MDT

CACTA-Administration Division Day Programming

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT

Exhibit Hall A1

AFTERNOON SCHEDULE:

1:45-2:30-Annual Business Meeting
2:30-2:45-Officer Installation-Debbie Nelson, CACTE Executive Director presides
2:45-3:00-Travel to Pueblo Community College
3:00-5:00-Pueblo Community College Tour #2 or Pueblo Water Tower Place (self-select)

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Exhibit Hall A1 Pueblo Convention Center

Division Day

1:30pm MDT

CATFACS-Family & Consumer Sciences Division Day Programming

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT

Millberger Farms

AFTERNOON SCHEDULE

1:30-Depart for Millberger Farms Tour, 1625 Cortner Road, Pueblo - Site Contact: Shane Millberger, 719-240-1947
2:00-3:30-Property Tour
3:30-5:00-Farm Stand Tour On-Your-Own (5 min from Millberger Farms)
OR
2:00-5:00-Pueblo Community College Tours

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Millberger Farms

Division Day

1:30pm MDT

CBAM-Business & Marketing Division Day Programming

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT

Fortino Grand Hall C-East

AFTERNOON SCHEDULE1:30-1:50-Andrea Wiesehmeyer, presenter, Colorado State Fair1:55-2:30-Michelle Wimmer, presenter, AI Act and Ethical Bias2:30-2:45-Networking Break2:45-3:45-Interactive Roundtables (20' rotations) Choose your own adventure: Planning Your 1st Month with Aly, Interactive Session with Stukent, AI in the Classroom with Bernadette, Classroom & CTSO Resources with Traci, and Deep...
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Ideas for 1st Month of School pdf

CACTE Summer 2026 AI Impact pdf

Summer 2026 Roundtable pdf

Educator Toolkit Quick Engagement & Classroom Management Strategies pdf

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Fortino Grand Hall C-East Pueblo Convention Center

Division Day

1:30pm MDT

CCD-Counseling & Career Development Division Day Programming

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT

Meeting Room 3

1:30-2:00-Annual Business Meeting- (Meeting Room 3)
MOVE TO EXHIBIT HALL A2 FOR REMAINING PD:

2:00-3:00-Collaboration & Care (ACE/CCD/PACE)
3:00-3:10-Grab snack & Travel to Pueblo Community College Tour
900 W Orman Ave, Pueblo, CO 81004
3:15-4:45-Campus Tour or Team Talk
4:45-Depart for Social Activity at Gold Dust Saloon

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Meeting Room 3 Pueblo Convention Center

Division Day

1:30pm MDT

COWBL-Work-Based Learning Divion Day Programming

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT

Heroes Pavillion

AFTERNOON SCHEDULE1:30-1:45- Welcome & Howdys (Introductions)○ Let’s kick things off by getting to know one another. Nobody stays a stranger for long around here!1:45-2:00 - COWBL Business (Bylaws Vote)○ Time to tend to the chores. We’ll be taking a quick vote on our bylaws to keep the ship sailing smoothly.2:00-2:45-College Board Presentation: Teamship○ See details below...
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Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Heroes Pavillion Pueblo Convention Center

Division Day

1:30pm MDT

CVATA-Agriculture Division Day Programming

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT

LoPresti Chili Farms Tour

1:30-Depart for LoPresti Chili Farm Tour
35741 Gale Rd, Pueblo, CO 81006
2:00-3:30-Chili Farms Tour
3:30-Depart for Pueblo HS
4:00-4:45-Tour debrief
4:45-Depart for Bruce's Ale House (CVATA Members Only activity)

Speakers

Tyler Knecht

LoPresti Chili Farm

McCall Knecht

LoPresti Chili Farm

Emily Baylie

Agricultural Education Instructor, Limon Public Schools

Wife, mom, Ag Teacher. Passionate about agricultural literacy, education, and advocacy and rural life and living.

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
LoPresti Chili Farms Tour

Division Day

1:30pm MDT

ETMA-Engineering, Technology and Media Arts Division Day Programming

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT

Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum

1:30 pm – 1:45 pm: Travel to Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum (31001 Magnuson Ave)1:45 pm – 1:55 pm: Arrival & Tour Check-In1:55 pm – 3:55 pm: Guided/Self-Guided Museum Tour3:55 pm – 4:10 pm: Return travel to the Convention Center4:15 pm – 5:00 pm: ETMA Annual Division Business Meeting, Fortino Grand Hall C-WestIn-Person Important Admission InfoCurrent/Paid ETMA Division Members:...
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Speakers

Bobbie Bastian

Computer Science and Cybersecurity Instructor, FutureForward at Bollman

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum

Division Day

1:30pm MDT

HPS-Health, Public Safety & Law Enforcement Divison Day Programming

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT

Murphy Sitter Room (Marriott)

AFTERNOON SCHEDULE

1:30-1:45-HPS Division Meeting & Leadership Team Brainstorm
1:45-2:10--Visit with Exhibitors/Network in breakout room
2:15-3:15-Felicia McQueen, Chief Deputy, Pueblo County Coroner's Office-Drug Trends
3:15-3:45-Snack Break
3:45-4:45-Stacey Hervey, presenter
4:45-5:00-Wrap up and Next Steps

Speakers

Felicia McQueen

Chief Deputy, F-ABMDI, Pueblo County Coroner Office

Stacey Hervey

LAPSEN

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Murphy Sitter Room (Marriott) Marriott Courtyard

Division Day

1:30pm MDT

PACE-Postsecondary, Adult & Career Division Day Programming

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT

Meeting Room 4

AFTERNOON SCHEDULE

1:30-2:00-Annual Business Meeting and Officer Installation (MEETING ROOM 4)
MOVE TO EXHIBIT HALL A2 FOR REMAINDER OF PD:

2:00-3:00-Collaboration & Care (ACE/CCD/PACE)
3:00-3:10-Grab snack & Travel Time to Pueblo Community Tour
900 W Orman Ave, Pueblo, CO 81004
3:15-4:45-Campus Tour or Team Talk
5:00-Depart for Social Activity at Gold Dust Saloon

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Meeting Room 4

Division Day

1:30pm MDT

T&I-Trades & Industry Division Day Programming

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT

Fortino Grand Hall C-West

AFTERNOON SCHEDULE (Begin at Pueblo Convention Center)1:30-2:00-Trades & Industry Division Brainstorm/Business Meeting-Fortino Grand Hall C-West2:00-Depart for self-selected tours at Pueblo Community College2:30-4:00TOUR ONE: Westwind Wood Specialties33645 E United Ave, Pueblo, CO 81001Shop tour with owner Troy Deaton -- intended for carpentry, cabinetmaking, and woods teachersTOUR...
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Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm MDT
Fortino Grand Hall C-West Pueblo Convention Center

Division Day

3:00pm MDT

Afternoon Snack, sponsored by CWDC (included for all)

Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm MDT

PCC Hallways

Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm MDT
PCC Hallways Pueblo Convention Center

Exhibitors

5:00pm MDT

CACTA Social-Pueblo River Boats

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm MDT

Pueblo Toyota Riverwalk Boathouse

The Pueblo Riverwalk Boat Tours have been reserved from 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM for CACTA members who select the Administration Division during conference registration. For interested CACTA members, the meet-up location will be provided during the CACTA Business Meeting.

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Pueblo Toyota Riverwalk Boathouse 130 Riverwalk Place, Pueblo, CO

Division Day Social Hour

5:00pm MDT

ACE-CTE for All Social - Gold Dust Saloon

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT

Gold Dust Saloon

Meet in front of Pueblo Convention Center Main Entrance and walk over to the Gold Dust Saloon, 217 South Union Ave. Pueblo, CO 81003 or drive and meet us there.

Start Time 5:00 PM and End Time 7:00 PM for evening social activities.

Each division (ACE/CCD/PACE) is paying for its own division attendees. Each division attendee will receive a ticket good for a specific menu item(s).

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Gold Dust Saloon 217 South Union, Pueblo, CO 81003

Division Day Social Hour

5:00pm MDT

CCD Social - Gold Dust Saloon

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT

Gold Dust Saloon

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Gold Dust Saloon 217 South Union, Pueblo, CO 81003

Division Day Social Hour

5:00pm MDT

PACE Social -Gold Dust Saloon

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT

Gold Dust Saloon

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Gold Dust Saloon 217 South Union, Pueblo, CO 81003

Division Day Social Hour

5:00pm MDT

T&I Social

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT

Food and Iron Food Hall

Join your T&I Division colleagues for conversation and drinks.

T&I Division will cover the first round of beverages.
Food costs will be on your own

https://www.fuelandironfoodhall.com/
Fuel and Iron Food Hall
400 S Union Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Food and Iron Food Hall 400 S Union, Pueblo, CO 81003

Division Day Social Hour

5:00pm MDT

CVATA Members Only Social

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:00pm - 8:00pm MDT

Bruce's Alehouse Brewing

Meet at the front, and you will be escorted to the patio
CVATA will be paying for appetizers, but drinks and dinner will be on your own.

This is a CVATA/CACTE member Division event.

Location: 120 E Riverwalk, Pueblo, CO 81003

Speakers

Emily Baylie

Agricultural Education Instructor, Limon Public Schools

Wife, mom, Ag Teacher. Passionate about agricultural literacy, education, and advocacy and rural life and living.

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Bruce's Alehouse Brewing

Division Day Social Hour

5:15pm MDT

CBAM Social Networking

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:15pm - 7:00pm MDT

1129 Spirits and Eatery

Join the CBAM Division for a time of catching up and talking about the fun at ICDC & FBLA nationals, while enjoying a social hour with other business and marketing professionals.

115 E Riverwalk #100, Pueblo
https://spirits-eatery-qjthxesa.manus.space/

Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:15pm - 7:00pm MDT
1129 Spirits and Eatery 15 E Riverwalk #100

Division Day Social Hour

6:00pm MDT

CATFACS Social-Fuel and Iron Food Hall

Wednesday July 22, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm MDT

Food and Iron Food Hall

Fuel and Iron Food Hall
400 S Union Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003
https://www.fuelandironfoodhall.com/

Members will pay for their own dinner and drinks

Wednesday July 22, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Food and Iron Food Hall 400 S Union, Pueblo, CO 81003

Division Day Social Hour

6:00pm MDT

COWBL Social -Angelo's Pizza

Wednesday July 22, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm MDT

Angelo's Pizza

The Date: Wednesday, July 22, 2026The Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Right when the sun starts dipping!)The Place: Angelo's Pizza (Located right on the beautiful Pueblo Riverwalk!)The Vibe: Where the heart of New York City meets the soul of Pueblo, COThe “College Board + Teamship” gang is going to sponsor the adult beverages- 2 Drink Tickets for those who know the 4...
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Wednesday July 22, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Angelo's Pizza 105 E. Riverwalk, Pueblo, CO 81003

Division Day Social Hour

7:30am MDT

Registration Check-in Open

Thursday July 23, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am MDT

Registration Desk - Outside Fortino Hall

Have questions on this last day? We probably have answers!

Thursday July 23, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am MDT
Registration Desk - Outside Fortino Hall Pueblo Convention Center

Registration and Help Desk

7:30am MDT

AM Beverage Service (included for all)

Thursday July 23, 2026 7:30am - 11:30am MDT

PCC Hallways

Enjoy coffee, hot tea and/or iced tea while you visit with fellow attendees.

Thursday July 23, 2026 7:30am - 11:30am MDT
PCC Hallways Pueblo Convention Center

9:00am MDT

Adult CTE Pathways Rooted in Equity, Care, and Completion

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT

Meeting Room 2/3

This session shares how we are building an Adult/Postsecondary CTE pathway that centers both completion and care for the whole learner. Grounded in Adult Education, CTE, care for the whole person, and accompaniment, our approach focuses on meeting students where they are and walking alongside them toward their goals. We’ll share how we connect programs, strengthen advising, and create...
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Speakers

Lauren Jones

Prog Dir Special Pops, CCD, Colorado Community College System

A dynamic education + training professional who delivers content energetically + meaningfully. I consider myself a creative - always drawn to art, expression, openness, willingness to grow and be true. A counselor, a creator, a gardener, an artist, a lover of all things ecologically... Read More →

Anna Super

Dir of First Yr Program Experience, Arapahoe Community College

Student services professional with experience leading diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Continually strives to make evidence-based decisions with a student-centered approach.

Junior Reina Toc

Director of ENLACE, Red Rocks Community College

Junior Reina Toc, PhD, is an educator, and community builder dedicated to advancing equity and belonging in higher education. He has over 17 years of experience in strategic program management, community engagement, advancement, international education, and student success across... Read More →

Melissa Toering

TSC GED Instructor, Trinidad State College

Practice, Fellowship, and Knowledge = these are my core functions Civil Service, Learning, Including, Growing, Cheering, Creating = these are my core passions

CACTE Adult PS ACE session pdf

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Meeting Room 2/3 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

9:00am MDT

Advocacy is in Everyone’s Job Title

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT

Fortino Grand Hall C-East

In today’s rapidly evolving environment, advocacy for career and technical education is more important than ever—it is an essential responsibility for educators, administrators and leaders in every area of CTE. This session will help you respond to current policy issues by equipping you with practical strategies to champion your programs at the local, state and national levels. Learn how to...
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Speakers

Alisha Hyslop

Chief Policy, Research & Content Officer, ACTE

ACTE Advocacy Presentation pptx

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Fortino Grand Hall C-East Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

9:00am MDT

Discovering Student Strengths: Colorado Career Advising Tool to Guide Pathways and Workforce Readiness

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT

Fortino Grand Hall C-West

This interactive breakout session introduces a strengths-based advising model that helps students connect their personal strengths to career pathways and workforce opportunities. Participants will experience the process firsthand by completing a brief strengths assessment using IndigoPathway or the Colorado Career Advising (CCA) Tool and engaging in a guided reflection activity modeled after real...
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Speakers

Phillip Inzerillo

Director of Partnerships, Indigo Impact Initiative

Phillip Inzerillo builds partnerships connecting schools, employers, and communities to expand career-connected learning. With Indigo Impact Initiative, he supports implementation of strengths-based advising tools nationwide, including Colorado Career Advising and My Colorado Journey... Read More →

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Fortino Grand Hall C-West Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

9:00am MDT

Innovations in CTE Teacher Recruitment/Retention (Innovation Grant Panel)

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT

Heroes Pavillion

This session will highlight Innovations in CTE Grant projects related to CTE teacher recruitment and retention. Join Greeley School District and Red Rocks Community College to hear more about projects that can be replicated related to teacher externships and how that supports partnership, WBL expansion and program quality as well as RRCC's expanded onboarding process supporting teachers...
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Speakers

Victoria Crownover

Associate State Director of CTE, Colorado Community College System

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Heroes Pavillion Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

9:00am MDT

On-Ramps to Registered Apprenticeships for Youth and Young Adults

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT

Meeting Room 4/5

In this session we will provide: overview of the Colorado Apprenticeship system, Registered Apprenticeship 101, Registered Apprenticeship Directory Hands-on-Activity, a share out of work to date via the CTE / Apprenticeship Alignment grant and the Future Ready Apprenticeship Center.

Speakers

Maddy Oaks

Education Alignment Specialist, Apprenticeship Colorado

Prior to her current role as the Education Alignment Specialist at Apprenticeship Colorado, Maddy served as a Program Coordinator at the Colorado Department of Education (CDE), where she worked to improve grant strategies and support adult education and literacy programs under the... Read More →

Debbie Shackelford

Youth Engagement Specialist, Apprenticeship Colorado

Debbie Shackelford began her career in Financial Services, establishing successful divisions in Cash Management and Corporate Training. Driven by a passion for empowering others, she moved to the Pikes Peak Workforce Center, serving on the training team and later as Program Manager... Read More →

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Meeting Room 4/5 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

9:00am MDT

Opening Doors: Career Exploration for Students with Disabilities, Multilingual Learners, and Every Other Student in the Room

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT

Exhibit Hall A2

What happens when career exploration is designed for your most complex learners first? This session introduces Opening Doors, a structured career exploration model built for students who need the most support — and powerful enough for every student in the room. CTE educators, special education co-teachers, and ACE instructors will leave with a practical, classroom-ready differentiation framework...
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Speakers

Chris Groote

CEO, The Third Road

Chris Groote is an international speaker, author, and founder of Elk Mountain Concepts, with two decades in corporate management and entrepreneurial training. A passionate advocate for teaching business ownership to young adults regardless of background or degree, he co-founded The... Read More →

Jen Swiney

Chief Education Officer and ACE Teacher, The Third Road & CCSD

Jen Swiney is an ACE-Certified CTE Educator at Cherry Creek School District, where she designs career programming for students with IEPs and ELLs. She is the Chief Education Officer; co-founded CTEsoft and The Third Road on a simple belief: every student deserves a clear path forward... Read More →

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Exhibit Hall A2 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

9:00am MDT

Preparing Students for an AI-Driven Workforce

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT

Exhibit Hall A1

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping industries, eliminating some roles, and creating entirely new ones — and today's students will enter a job market that looks completely different. This session will take a deep dive into at the latest Colorado, national, and global workforce data, examine how industries are leveraging AI, which careers and tasks are most vulnerable to automation,...
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Speakers

Lisa Hollingsworth

Internship Coordinator, Mapleton Early Career Prep

Christy Biedron

Senior Director of Education, Junior Achievement-Rocky Mountain

CACTE AI 2026 pdf

JA Work Based Learning pdf

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am MDT
Exhibit Hall A1 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

10:00am MDT

Avoid the Burnout

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am MDT

Heroes Pavillion

Description: Are you overwhelmed by a long to-do list? Juggling teaching multiple preps and all of your other CTE duties? Do you feel like your passion and flame for this profession are burning out? You are not alone. Join Emily as she shares tips and tricks for managing your to-do list, completing extra duties, and keeping your passion for CTE burning bright! Teachers at any point in their career...
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Speakers

Emily Baylie

Agricultural Education Instructor, Limon Public Schools

Wife, mom, Ag Teacher. Passionate about agricultural literacy, education, and advocacy and rural life and living.

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Heroes Pavillion Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

10:00am MDT

Behind the Bills: The CACTE Legislative Fellowship Experience

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am MDT

Exhibit Hall A2

This breakout session will focus on the CACTE Legislative Fellowship and how valuable participation can be to support the landscape and future of CTE. The session will provide an overview of the Fellowship itself and how it plays a role in advocating for state legislation impacting CTE programs, funding priorities, accountability measures, and emerging workforce initiatives. Participants will...
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Speakers

Nikki Carter

CTE Director, Widefield School District 3

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Exhibit Hall A2 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

10:00am MDT

Colorado's 2030 Energy Goals: What It Means For Your Students!

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am MDT

Meeting Room 4/5

Join Colorado educators who spent the summer learning from industry leaders in the climate industry! In 2025, the Colorado Climate Workforce Analysis & Plan assessed the current climate workforce and forecasts the future employment demands. Learn about climate projects across the state and how to engage students in this sector. Attendees will also have the opportunity to share feedback with the...
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Speakers

Megan Christensen

Climate Workforce Development Manager, CWDC

Climate Workforce Development Manager Megan works to align workforce priorities in clean energy sectors across the state in a shared role with the Colorado Workforce Development Council and the Colorado Energy Office.Previous to joining the CWDC and the CEO, Megan worked in career... Read More →

Sami Mooney

BusinessEd Alignment Consultant, CWDC

The Colorado Workforce Development Council (CWDC) is a Governor-appointed, public-private partnership with the purpose to advise, oversee, and integrate the work of the Colorado talent development network. The CWDC Office is the work unit that supports the Council. Our vision is that... Read More →

2026 CACTE Climate Careers pptx

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Meeting Room 4/5 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

10:00am MDT

Leveraging CTE Career Development Programs for MTSS and Dropout Prevention

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am MDT

Fortino Grand Hall C-East

Through examination of the Alternative Cooperative Education (ACE) program in Colorado, this presentation will look at how CTE career development programs designed for special populations can serve as high-impact interventions within MTSS. Creating CTE pathways that include academic, behavioral, and social-emotional supports, schools can address disengagement, improve persistence, and reduce...
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Speakers

Alexa Green

ACE Teacher/WBL Liaison, William J. Palmer High School

Alexa Green currently teaches ACE Career Development at Palmer High School in Colorado Springs. She is a champion for special populations throughout CTE. Alexa currently serves as the secretary on the ACTE Board for the CTE for All Division and is an ACTE mentor for CTE for All for... Read More →

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Fortino Grand Hall C-East Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

10:00am MDT

Multimodal AI Meets Collaborative Robotics - An Integrated Hands-On Approach

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am MDT

Meeting Room 2/3

Discover a fun and creative approach to teaching key AI concepts and technologies essential for emerging careers in the robotics and automation industry—including generative AI, multimodal AI, and artificial vision using Dobot Robotics’ educational solutions. This hands-on session showcases the new Dobot E6 Magician series, AI Teaching Kit, Vision Kit, and AI Drawing Kit, which allow students...
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Speakers

Songwei Wang, Ph.D.

R&D Specialist (North America), Dobot Robotics

Songwei Wang, Ph.D., is a Research and Development Specialist at Dobot Robotics North America. With a background in robotics and AI from the University of Texas at Arlington, he specializes in making industrial robotics, computer vision, and generative AI accessible for education... Read More →

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Meeting Room 2/3 Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

10:00am MDT

Vocabulary in Action

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am MDT

Fortino Grand Hall C-West

Give vocabulary the boost it deserves! This session features a collection of fun, effective, and hands-on vocabulary activities designed to help students internalize essential terms in personal finance, entrepreneurship, and more. Participants will experience both individual tasks and team-based challenges that promote active learning, reinforce key concepts, and support long-term retention. Walk...
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Speakers

Kathy Werner

Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher, Swink School District

Robin Palmer

Education Specialist, Take Charge Today

Robin Palmer is passionate about providing high quality professional development for teachers and helping students develop skills that they will use far beyond high school. As an Arizona educator, Robin shared her passions by teaching Entrepreneurship and Financial Math, classes... Read More →

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am MDT
Fortino Grand Hall C-West Pueblo Convention Center

Breakout Sessions

11:00am MDT

General Session 3

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am MDT

Fortino Grand Hall A/B

Say a final farewell to the 2026 CACTE CareerTech Summit!

Will your name be the lucky winner for a FREE 2027 CACTE Summit Registration? Gift cards? CTE Swag?

Don't miss out - be there!

2026 CACTE CareerTech Summit Evaluation

Summit evaluation QR code png

2026.Complete.the.eval pdf

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am MDT
Fortino Grand Hall A/B Pueblo Convention Center

General Sessions