Learning & Leading with CTE

As we embark on a new school year, the elected officer team of ACTEAZ is excited to welcome all members back with enthusiasm and optimism. Your dedication to Career and Technical Education (CTE) is not just about teaching skills—it’s about shaping futures and empowering a new generation of students to realize the American Dream.

This year, your work will continue to make a profound difference. Together, we will equip students with the technical and professional skills they need to succeed in an ever-changing world. Your commitment to excellence and innovation in education ensures students have the opportunities and tools they need to thrive.

Let’s embrace this new beginning with energy and purpose. Thank you for all you do to inspire and lead our students toward successful careers and fulfilling lives.

We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Stephen Weltsch as the new Executive Director of the Association for Career and Technical Education of Arizona (ACTEAZ). With a robust career spanning 28 years in Career and Technical Education (CTE), Stephen brings a wealth of experience and passion to our organization. His leadership roles have included executive officer positions with ACTEAZ, the National Career Leadership Academy (NCLA), and the Arizona Career and Technical Education Curriculum Consortium (AZCTECC).

Stephen’s journey in CTE began as a student in a high school accounting program at Glendale High School. This experience provided him with hands-on learning opportunities that helped him overcome academic challenges and build confidence. The leadership training embedded in CTE programs enhanced his communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and professional network, preparing him for a successful career. As Stephen puts it, “CTE opened my eyes to see beyond my current reality to what could be.”

Stephen firmly believes in the CTE Delivery Model as the premier learning system, offering meaningful and relevant experiences for all students. He emphasizes that CTE strengthens student achievement, promotes post-secondary connections, and plays a vital role in community development. As Arizona’s key industries continue to grow and shift towards skills and credentials-based hiring practices, Stephen envisions CTE as a driving force in equipping individuals with the leadership traits and professional skills necessary for economic independence and success.

In his new role, Stephen aims to establish key priorities for ACTEAZ, including:

1. Member Support - Enhancing networking opportunities, expanding professional development channels, and strengthening the Premier Series.

2. Leadership Development - Cultivating leaders through the Fellows program, supporting affiliates, and designing a leadership series.

3. Advocacy - Fostering focused statewide advocacy efforts to highlight the impact of CTE and reinforce partnerships with industry.

Stephen is dedicated to ensuring that ACTEAZ remains forward-thinking in supporting CTE professionals and addressing Arizona's workforce needs and skills gaps. His extensive background, including multiple terms as ACTEAZ President, Vice President, and Treasurer, positions him to lead our association with vision and dedication.

Please join us in welcoming Stephen Weltsch as ACTEAZ’s new Executive Director. We look forward to his leadership and the continued growth and success of CTE in Arizona under his guidance.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) has become a cornerstone of Arizona’s economic and workforce development. As the Executive Director of ACTEAZ, I’ve witnessed firsthand how CTE programs equip students with the skills needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving job market. These programs are not just an educational alternative but a critical component of our state’s economic strategy.

Arizona’s economy is increasingly driven by industries such as healthcare, information technology, advanced manufacturing, and renewable energy. CTE programs provide a direct pipeline of skilled workers to these high-demand sectors. For instance, CTE health sciences programs prepare students for careers as medical technicians, nurses, and other essential healthcare roles. With the healthcare industry experiencing significant growth, these programs help meet the demand for qualified professionals.

This is why I was so excited to celebrate Noelle Trinder, pictured here, as the recipient of ACTEAZ’s Outstanding Business Professional of the Year. Noelle is a dedicated and visionary leader with AZ Banner Health who has forged industry and CTE partnerships with local high schools, creating a sustainable and dynamic healthcare talent pipeline.

The rise of technology and automation in various industries has elevated the importance of technical skills. CTE programs in IT and advanced manufacturing equip students with hands-on experience and industry-recognized certifications. This practical training ensures that graduates are job-ready and capable of contributing to Arizona’s tech-driven economy from day one.

Beyond individual career success, CTE also plays a crucial role in addressing the broader issue of workforce shortages. Arizona faces a significant skills gap, with many employers struggling to find workers with the necessary technical competencies. By aligning education with industry needs, CTE programs help close this gap, ensuring businesses have access to a well-trained and capable workforce.

Furthermore, CTE promotes economic inclusivity. It offers diverse pathways to high-paying, fulfilling careers for students from all backgrounds, including those who may not pursue a traditional four-year college degree. This inclusivity strengthens our communities by providing equitable opportunities for all students to succeed.

In conclusion, Career and Technical Education is indispensable to Arizona’s economic vitality and workforce development. By investing in CTE, we are preparing our students for prosperous futures and ensuring that Arizona remains competitive in the global economy. As we look ahead, continued support for CTE will be essential in driving our state’s growth and prosperity.

Picture a landscape where AZ CTE teachers are seen as the esteemed leaders in their field, equipped with the latest strategies and efficacy to inspire all students, igniting a ripple effect of enhanced student learning and achievement. ACTEAZ’s Premier Series is the catalyst for that transformation. We're not just aiming for short-term gains but building a sustainable framework to ensure the success of teachers and students.

The Premier Series is about shaping our state's future of education. It's about empowering teachers, inspiring students, and forging a path toward excellence that knows no limits. As always, the teacher makes the difference. Please review the link below to connect with the latest Premier Series offerings.

https://www.acteaz.org/courses/

ACTEAZ is thrilled to introduce Amber Gloria as the new Premier Series Coordinator to fulfill our collective vision. Amber brings a wealth of experience to this role, combining her diverse background in real estate, marketing, and hospitality with a dedicated career in CTE.

Amber’s professional journey began in the dynamic fields of real estate and marketing, where she honed her skills in client relations, strategic planning, and innovative problem-solving. She then transitioned into the hospitality industry, where her expertise further expanded and laid a solid foundation for her entry into education.

In 2013, Amber pivoted to a new passion by joining Deer Valley High School as a business and marketing teacher. Her commitment to excellence and innovation quickly became apparent. Notably, in 2021, her hospitality management program was recognized with the Most Innovative Program Award by ACTE Region V, a testament to her ability to create impactful and forward-thinking educational experiences.

As the Premier Series Coordinator with ACTEAZ, Amber is dedicated to enhancing the professional development of Arizona’s CTE educators. She is committed to offering high-quality, meaningful education opportunities and personalized support to ensure educators meet Arizona Department of Education Certification requirements. Amber aims to provide impactful coaching and recognition to empower educators and elevate their programs.

Amber is excited to bring her passion and expertise to this role, supporting Arizona’s CTE community with her unique blend of industry experience and educational insight.