Digital Storytelling: Amplifying Student Voices Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.71
In Episode 71 of the Global CTE Podcast, host Sylvester Chisom interviews Dr. Sequoyah Wharton, an award-winning educator, media literacy advocate, and Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow. Together they explore how digital storytelling amplifies student voices, the lessons global and indigenous perspectives bring to education, and why media literacy is essential for the future. Dr. Wharton also shares his vision for CTE, highlighting adaptability, creativity, and respect for the trades in an AI-driven world.Topics Covered:
Digital storytelling empowers student voice
Media literacy as essential skill
Global and indigenous learning perspectives
Partnerships and cross-sector collaboration
Future of CTE in AI
Dr. Sequoyah Wharton Bio:Dr. Sequoyah Wharton is an award-winning educator, media literacy advocate, and digital storytelling innovator. He teaches Digital Filmmaking, Broadcast Journalism, and Visual Arts in New York, and serves as an adjunct professor at several universities where he focuses on adolescent art education and creative media pedagogy. Dr. Wharton is the Executive Director of the Empowering Global Educators Foundation, a PBS Student Reporting Labs Teacher Ambassador, and a 2025-2026 Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow placed on Capitol Hill. His work blends creativity, equity, and global citizenship, empowering students to use storytelling as a tool for social impact.
Beyond the Scoreboard: From Classroom to Digital Media Career - Global CTE Podcast Ep 70 Interview
On Episode 70 of the Global CTE Podcast, our host Sylvester Chisom sits down with special guest Don Goble, a nationally recognized educator and media innovator. Don shares how he transformed his classroom into a hub for digital storytelling, sports media, and real world career pathways, opening doors for students from all backgrounds. Together they explore how DS Academy is helping schools nationwide prepare the next generation to thrive in a media driven world.
Topics Covered:1. Creating a Media Program That Inspires Students2. Media Skills Transfer to Every Industry3. Celebrating Everyone, Not Just Athletes4. From YouTube to Friday Night Lights5. Advice for Teachers Without Media BackgroundsDon Goble Bio:
Don Goble is a nationally recognized educator and media innovator with decades of experience in teaching, storytelling, and digital production. As the creator of the DS Academy curriculum, Don transformed his high school classroom into a thriving hub of creativity and collaboration, where students produced professional-grade broadcasts, documentaries, animations, and live scoreboard operations. His visionary approach empowered students of all backgrounds to explore careers in journalism, film, sports media, and digital branding.
Don’s curriculum has now been adopted by schools nationwide through Digital Scoreboards. Built on inclusivity and real-world application, DS Academy helps students develop technical skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Don’s legacy is one of impact, innovation, and opportunity, opening doors for students to tell their stories and shape the future of media.
Building Africa’s Workforce of Tomorrow: How STEM and AI are Creating Future-Ready Jobs for African Youth
Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep 69 w/Sally KimanguIn this powerful episode, we sit down with Sally Kimangu, widely known as Africa’s STEM Queen to explore how she's preparing youth across the continent for the jobs of the future. From robotics for 5-year-olds to AI boot camps for adults, Sally is building an ecosystem where technology meets purpose. Her mission is bold: create 1,000 jobs every year by equipping Africans with the tools, skills, and mindset to lead in a global innovation economy.
Topics Covered:
Empowering Africa’s Youth to Lead the Future of Work
Rebranding TVET (CTE) In Africa: Making Tech + Trades Cool Again
From Silent to Skilled: A 6-Week Student Transformation Story
Africa Must Be the Author of Its AI Future
AI in Africa's Education: A Curriculum Revolution Begins
The Future of CTE: Every Skill, Tech-Enabled
Sally Kimangu Bio:
Today’s guest is Ms. Kim, widely known as the “Africa STEM Queen” for her tireless work creating access to technology, innovation, and leadership opportunities for Africa’s next generation. She is the founder and CEO of DI Africa (Destination Imagination Africa), an organization dedicated to preparing African youth for the jobs of the future with a focus on STEM education, AI literacy, and global workforce skills. Through DI Africa, Ms. Kim is on a mission to break down systemic barriers and empower young people, especially in underrepresented communities, to thrive in emerging industries. Her work extends beyond just education it’s about economic mobility, job creation, and positioning Africa’s youth to not just participate in the future of work, but to lead it. She is especially passionate about building AI capacity in Botswana and across the continent, ensuring that African innovation is at the forefront of global tech conversations.
You can learn more about her work at di4africa.org
CTE The Hook Urban Education Needs-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.68In episode 68 of the Global Career Tech Education Podcast, host Sylvester Chisom sits down with Troy Long, a 20-year CTE leader and author of The CTE Experience. Troy shares how he’s building innovative programs, securing AI education grants, and changing the narrative around college and career readiness. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about empowering students through real-world learning.
Topics
-Troy’s origin story and pathway from business teacher to CTE leader
-Winning the NJDOE Artificial Intelligence Innovation in Education Grant
-Integrating AI tools and robotics like Boston Dynamics’ Spot into CTE
-Strategies from Troy's New Book on CTE
-CTE as a driver for upward economic mobility and skilled trade entrepreneurship
-Strategies for promoting and elevating the message of CTE nationwide
Troy Long Bio:
Today’s guest Troy Long is the Director of CTE & Grants Administration for Mercer County Technical Schools in New Jersey. Troy is a 20-year CTE veteran and author of The CTE Experience. Troy has led as a teacher, vice principal, and program developer, working with the NJ Department of Education and industry partners to build innovative CTE pathways. He recently secured a state grant to expand AI-focused CTE programs and is passionate about helping students find non-traditional paths to success. Welcome to the show, Troy Long!
Leading with the Mindset of Possibilities - Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.67 w/ Erika Twani & Dani Bedoni
What happens when two global leaders in education and coaching join forces to redefine how we lead, learn, and grow? In this powerful episode, Erika Twani and Dani Bedoni share how their Mindset of Possibilities system is helping educators and students develop autonomy, adaptability, and future-ready leadership powered by AI and human connection. From rural classrooms to global stages, this conversation is a masterclass in unlocking potential at every level.
Topics Covered:
Erika Twani & Dani Bedoni Bios:
Erika Twani, is a best-selling author, TEDx speaker, social entrepreneur, and Fortune 100 corporate veteran, she is driven by a deep passion for personalized education. With over 30 years of experience in the education technology industry, Erika has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of personalized education in students’ lives. This passion led her to join education experts in founding the Learning One to One Foundation in 2011, where she serves as CEO. Erika's expertise is widely recognized, and she is a sought-after speaker at national and international conferences on learning innovation, educational technology, and AI.
Dani Bedoni is a distinguished Master Coach with over 30 years of experience. She has guided hundreds of leaders toward a mindset of possibilities. Renowned for identifying individual strengths, fostering growth, and offering transformative strategies for change, reinvention, and success, Dani helps leaders achieve the desired future self with clarity and purpose. Combined the two of them coach in 6 languages.
Human Centered Design In Education-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep. 66
In Episode 66 of the Global CTE Podcast, host Sylvester Chisom speaks with Sandra Vilevac, a human-centered designer and STEM advocate, about how empathy, ethics, and creativity can reshape the way we implement AI and design curriculum in education. Sandra shares insights from her work with NASA, introduces practical tools like the Integrity Tool, and emphasizes the importance of aligning learning with real-world skills and community needs. Together, they explore how educators can prepare students for future careers by fostering inclusive, innovative, and human-centered learning environments.
Topics Covered:
-The Power of Empathy in Education and Innovation
-Teaching Skills, Not Just Content at NASA
-From Rural Towns to the Moon: Building Local Economies for Space
-The Case for Human-Centered AI Implementation
-Human-Centered AI Projects Start With Student Voice
Sandra Vilevac Bio:
Sandra Vilevac is the founder of Glucose Design Studios and a consultant for human-centered design. She is passionate about the intersection of art and health in fostering community. Her career has enabled her to serve as an educator, design thinker, and technology developer. Currently, she is exploring human-centric strategies for youth and education. With over ten years of experience in STEM contributing with an artist mindset, she has witnessed the vast opportunities available for individuals from all backgrounds and training. Advocating for manufacturing, trades, and non-college pathways in STEM, she recognizes that creating a brighter future to tackle our world's complex challenges demands diverse perspectives.
Strategic Thinking to Shape the Future of Education-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.65 w/Greg Schermbeck
In Episode 65 of the Global Career Tech Education Podcast, host Sylvester Chisom sits down with Greg Schermbeck, Founder and Principal of SchermCo, to explore how strategic implementation is transforming education and workforce systems across the country. Greg shares lessons from his journey as a former educator turned social impact leader, emphasizing the power of persistence, data, and community partnership. This episode offers practical insights for educators, nonprofit leaders, and anyone working to build more equitable and effective systems.
Topics Covered:-The Power of Public Investment in Workforce Systems
-Education to Employment: Creating Pathways for High School Students
-Data-Driven Family Empowerment That Works
-Listen, Respond, Repeat: The Formula for Family Engagement
-Charlotte’s First Workforce Development Plan
-Greg Schermbeck’s Vision for the Future of CTEGreg Schermbeck Bio:
On today’s episode, I’m joined by Greg Schermbeck, the founder and principal of SchermCo & founder of the SchermCo Foundation a national social-impact implementation firm that partners with schools and mission-driven organizations to drive equity and outcomes in underserved communities. Through services like strategic advising, family empowerment, workforce development, and data-driven corporate social responsibility, Greg and his team are helping to create sustainable change at the systems level. A former teacher, school leader, and Teach For America alum, Greg brings both on-the-ground experience and a visionary lens to his work. He’s also the host of the Square Pizza podcast, where he amplifies the voices of leaders of color making a difference across the country. Let’s dive in.
Learn More About SchermCo.
Mapping The Student Learning Journey-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.64 w/Ekta Sahasi CEO of Spikeview
In Episode 64 of the Global CTE Podcast, host Sylvester Chisom sits down with Ekta Sahasi, the visionary Founder and CEO of Spikeview. Together, they explore how digital portfolios, GenAI, and student-centered design are transforming the future of Career & Technical Education. Ekta shares powerful insights on empowering students to own their learning journeys, showcase their skills, and unlock equitable access to career and educational opportunities.
Topics Covered:
-The Learning Journey Map: A New Way to Understand Growth
-The Most Important Durable Skill: Adaptability
-CTE in Action: Mapping Growth Through Real-World Experiences
-What Makes a Student's Digital Portfolio Stand Out-Generative AI Meets Student VoiceEkta Sahasi Bio:Ekta Sahasi is the founder and CEO of Spikeview. Ekta is a dynamic executive with over 25 years of experience driving innovation, scaling ventures, and delivering transformative business outcomes. Recognized for her strategic vision and leadership, she excels at spearheading product innovation, building and leading high-performance teams, fostering interdisciplinary partnerships, and driving meaningful impact. With deep expertise in early-stage venture development, fundraising, and operational excellence, Ekta seamlessly bridges technical proficiency with business acumen.Six years ago, Ekta founded spikeview, a context-aware, privacy-first, GenAI-powered digital portfolio platform designed to empower young adults. spikeview enables users to document their experiences, build networks, and access a wide range of educational and career opportunities. Today, it is a leading platform for educators and students, facilitating diverse pathways from high school to postsecondary education and career success.
STEM FOR GIRLS: SHAPING KENYA'S FUTURE
Episode 63 of the Global CTE Podcast, hosted by Sylvester Chisom, is the final installment of the Black In CTE Series and a powerful tribute to Women’s History Month. Featuring Magaga Enos, a Kenyan educator pioneering STEM education and girls’ empowerment, this episode showcases the voices of his former students, Tatyana Bella and Rebecca Naisimoi young women from the Maasai communities in Kenya who are breaking barriers in engineering and climate activism. Their stories highlight the power of mentorship, real-world STEM projects, and the urgent need to align education with economic mobility in Kenya and beyond.Topics Covered:
-BEADS for Education: Turning Cultural Tradition into Opportunity
-Aligning Education with Economic Mobility In Kenya
-The Solar Oven Project: Student-Led Innovation
-Innovating the STEM Curriculum for Girls In Kenya
-From Classroom to Community: Scaling Impactful Solutions
BIOS:Magaga Enos Bio:
Magaga Enos is a Kenyan educator and advocate for educational transformation with extensive experience in marginalized communities. As STEM Lead Educator at BEADS for Education, he pioneered programs merging cultural heritage with modern education, inspiring 400+ girls to pursue STEM fields. As Director of Full STEAM Forward Kenya, he increased girls' participation in STEM by 40% across multiple schools. Magaga also serves as HundrED Country Lead and Ambassador, spotlighting Kenyan educational innovations globally. His passion lies in creating frameworks that combine STEM learning with entrepreneurial mindsets to drive local innovation and community empowerment.
Tatyana Bella Tatyana is an Aeronautical Engineering student at the Technical University of Kenya, with a strong passion for innovation and problem-solving in STEM. She's an example of how education and mentorship can shape futures. Tatyana is an alumna of BEADS High School, where she was deeply influenced by the guidance of Mr. Magaga, not just as a teacher but as a mentor who helped her embrace a future-focused mindset and the power of cultural identity in STEM. Now, as she navigates the world of engineering, she carries forward the lessons of resilience, innovation, and community impact.
Rebecca Naisimoi Rebecca is a passionate education student at the Kabarak University dedicated to shaping the next generation as a teacher. She practices her career through mentorship where she guides her peers and younger students toward success. Rebecca is an alumna of BEADS high school where she was greatly influenced by the training of her teachers and founder of BEADS on mentorship and environmental activism. Driven by a deep passion for teaching and sustainability, Rebecca participated in the YALE program where she gained valuable insights into leadership and environmental advocacy. Rebecca campaigned for environmental conservation in her community, presented petitions to the government officials and wrote a book on climate change by the help of Ashoka ChangeMakers and World readers. As a committed climate action activist, Rebecca advocates for sustainable practices, environmental education, and policy changes to combat climate change. With the vision of a better future, Rebecca blends education, mentorship, and activism to inspire meaningful change in her community and beyond.
Fostering Student Agency, Autonomy & Acceleration-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Episode 62 w/Kimberly Neal-Brannum
Episode 62 of the Global CTE Podcast features Kimberly Neal-Brannum, founder of Believe Schools, in the next installment of the Black In CTE series. Kimberly shares her journey in education entrepreneurship, her mission to ensure students graduate with real career credentials and wealth-building opportunities, and how CTE can drive economic mobility. From building strong industry partnerships to reimagining high school education, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about innovation, equity, and student success in career education.Topics:
-Education as a Launchpad, Not a Limitation
-Teaching Students to Fight for the Right Things
-Building the Next Generation of Healthcare Professionals
-Authentic Leadership: Building Strong Teams in Education
-The Key to Strong CTE & Industry Partnerships
-Reimagining High School Career PathwaysKimberly Neal-Brannum Bio:
Kimberly Neal-Brannum is the founder of BELIEVE Schools, with campuses in both Indianapolis and St. Louis. She is deeply committed to ensuring that every student graduates with real choices and the tools for economic upward mobilitywhether through college, career, or entrepreneurship. She believes that education should be a launchpad, not a limitation, and her work reflects that mission every day. Before founding BELIEVE Schools, Kimberly’s leadership was instrumental in transforming schools across the country. She served as Managing Director of Secondary Education for KIPP: DC, where she successfully turned around its largest middle school. She also founded Muchin College Prep in Chicago, a school that remains one of the top-performing schools in the Noble Network of Charter Schools and one of the best in Chicago. With a background as a principal and school social worker, Kimberly has always put students at the center of her work, ensuring they have not just access, but true opportunities to thrive beyond the classroom. Sylvester has a free gift for you!
A Free Career Tech Education Masterclass Here:https://workwithglobalcte.com/
Reimagining Education -Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep. 61 with Tremain Holloway
Hosted by Sylvester Chisom, this episode is the second installment of the Black In CTE Series, featuring special guest Tremain Holloway, Doctoral Candidate at Harvard Graduate School of Education and former Principal of Maritime High School. Together, they explore how schools can serve as learning labs, the power of cross-sector collaboration in education, and the role of CTE in creating economic mobility. Tremain also shares insights from his time at Harvard, his vision for reimagining education, and the importance of representation in leadership.Topics Covered:
-Breaking Cycles: CTE as a Pathway to Generational Wealth
-Inside Harvard’s Doctorate in Education Leadership
-Reimagining Schools: Making Communities Learning Labs
-The Power of Critical Hope: Harvard’s Alumni of Color Conference
-Collaboration is the Key to Reimagining Education
Tremain Holloway Bio:Today, I’m excited to welcome back a special guest, Tremain Holloway! Tremain is a Doctoral Candidate at Harvard Graduate School of Education and the Founding Principal of Maritime High School in Seattle, where he’s leading innovative, hands-on learning experiences that connect students to real-world careers. We first met on a Durable Skills panel at the CAPS National Conference, and I was so impressed with his work that I had to have him back on the Global CTE Podcast. With over 10 years in education, Tremain is rethinking how schools prepare students for the future. Let’s dive into this conversation about innovation, leadership, and industry partnerships in CTE!
The Adaptable Leader Thriving In CTE Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep. 60
InEpisode 60 of theGlobal CTE Podcast, we kick off thefirst installment of the Black In CTE series with Dr. Ian Buchanan, a renowned education leader, executive coach, and author. Dr. Buchanan shares powerful insights onadaptive leadership, the evolving definition of intelligence in the AI era, and the importance of rethinking post-high school pathways for Black male students. This episode is packed with valuable strategies forCTE educators, school leaders, and anyone committed to transforming education and leadership for the future.
Topics:
-Leadership Trends: From Technical to Adaptive Skills
-Empowering Black Men in Education Leadership
-Know Your Saboteurs: How Leaders Get in Their Own Way
-Navigating Political Shifts in Education
-Rethinking Post-High School Pathways for Black Males
Dr. Ian Buchanan Bio
Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Ian Buchanan, an accomplished education leader, executive coach, and author with nearly three decades of experience in transforming leadership and educational equity. He has served as an Assistant Superintendent and worked in both public and charter school environments, giving him a unique perspective on education leadership. As the founder and CEO of Nia Education Group, Dr. Ian is dedicated to empowering leaders through strategic coaching and professional development. He is also the author ofKING: Four-Part Leadership Framework for Black Men, a powerful guide to navigating leadership and personal growth. His work centers on fostering excellence, equity, and empowerment, particularly within Career and Technical Education.
Learn more about Dr. Ian's work:
Sylvester has a free gift for you!
A Free Career Tech Education Masterclass Here:https://workwithglobalcte.com/
Leadership & Work Based Learning-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.59 w/Dr. T.J. Vari
Episode #59 of the Global Career Tech Education Podcast concludes the Excellence in Work-Based Learning series with special guest Dr. T.J. Vari. In this episode, Dr. Vari dives into the critical role of leadership in education, strategies to develop career pathways for students, and how to create innovative learning environments that foster success. Tune in for actionable insights that will inspire leaders to break barriers and transform the future of work-based learning.
Topics Covered:
-Work-Based Learning Across the Globe
-Durable Skills Through Work-Based Learning
-Representation in Career Exposure
-Combating the Urgency Trap in Leadership
-Shifting Mindsets for School Leadership
-Building Effective Professional Learning Communities
Dr. TJ Vari Bio:
Dr. T.J. Vari is the senior director of product strategy at MaiaLearning, with a focus on postsecondary planning for students worldwide. Dr. Vari is a former deputy superintendent, middle school assistant principal and principal, and high school English teacher. Dr. Vari is an award-winning educator, recognized speaker, and the cofounder of TheSchoolHouse302, a leadership development company with an international footprint. He is the coauthor of six books on educational leadership, which are the basis for his speaking engagements, coaching, and leadership development institutes.
Sylvester has a free gift for you!
A Free Career Tech Education Masterclass Here:
https://workwithglobalcte.com/
Driving Work-Based Learning with Data-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep. 58 w/Jason Van Nus In Episode 58 of the Global CTE Podcast, hosted by Sylvester Chisom, and the 2nd installment of the 3-part Excellence in Work-Based Learning series, Jason Van Nus, Director of Work-Based Learning and Youth Apprenticeship Programs in Valdosta, Georgia, shares how data-driven strategies are transforming work-based learning. He highlights the importance of leveraging data to track student outcomes, recruit industry partners, and build sustainable talent pipelines that benefit both students and communities. Jason also discusses innovative practices like reverse career fairs and social capital development, offering actionable insights for educators and leaders in workforce development. Topics Covered:
-Leveling the Playing Field with Career Assessments
-Celebrating Skills in Special Education
-Work-Based Learning as a Tool for Equity
-Teaching Students to Leverage Social Capital
-Using Data to Recruit Community Leaders
-Innovative Data Tracking for Work-Based Learning
Jason Van Nus Bio:
Today’s guest is Jason Van Nus, the 2023 Georgia ACTE Teacher of the Year and a finalist for the 2025 ACTE National Teacher of the Year. Jason currently serves as the Director of Work-Based Learning and Youth Apprenticeship Programs for Lowndes County Schools in Valdosta, Georgia. Under his leadership, the program has grown by over 500%, generating more than $28 million in economic impact. A nationally recognized leader, speaker, and educator, Jason has been featured for his innovative data-tracking techniques and groundbreaking community partnerships. He’s also in the final stages of his Ph.D. in Career and Technical Education, focusing on workforce and economic development.
Transforming Education Through Work-Based Learning Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.57 w/Kristy Volesky
In Episode #57, the first installment of our three-part series Excellence in Work-Based Learning, host Sylvester Chisom sits down with Kristy Volesky to explore transformative strategies for preparing students for career success. This engaging series highlights best practices, innovative approaches, and actionable insights to elevate work-based learning programs. Stay tuned for the next episodes as we continue to dive deeper into creating exceptional opportunities for students. Topics Covered:
-What is Work-Based Learning?
-International Perspectives on Work-Based Learning
-Bright Spots in Work-Based Learning Across the Nation
-Breaking Privilege Barriers in Work-Based Learning
-Embedding Work-Based Learning into the Curriculum Kristy Volesky Bio:
Kristy Volesky is an educational advocate who ambitiously supports students, teachers, schools, colleges, businesses and communities. With a passion for collaboration, Kristy has always sought ways to streamline educational programs and initiatives with key business and community leaders to efficiently address local challenges.
Kristy’s experience teaching, leading, collaborating and developing solutions with industry thought leaders has led to the advancement of effective work-based learning practices locally and nationally. Kristy serves on ACTE’s Work-based Learning Policy Team, co-leads the monthly state leader network collaboration with the Coalition for the Career Development Network, is on the Iowa Work-Based Learning Coordinator Board and is the owner of Volesky Consulting.
Kristy has over 20 years of educational experience as a teacher, work-based learning coordinator, educator, state level program consultant and national leader in work-based learning. Last year she published her first book, Transformational Work-Based Learning to support coordinators overseeing internship programs. Kristy holds a bachelor’s degree in business education and a master’s degree in organizational leadership.
Sylvester has a free training for you!
Visit: www.workwithglobalcte.com
Scaling Durable Skills In Education-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.56 In Episode 56 of the Global CTE Podcast, host Sylvester Chisom welcomes Tim Taylor, Co-Founder and President of America Succeeds, to discuss the transformative power of durable skills in education and workforce development. Tim shares insights into the Durable Skills Framework, its role in preparing students for economic mobility, and exciting innovations like the new Path Smith Seal. This episode is packed with actionable ideas for educators, policymakers, and business leaders looking to bridge the gap between education and industry. Topics Covered:
Tim Taylor Bio: Tim Taylor is the Co-Founder and President of America Succeeds, an organization committed to engaging business leaders in modernizing education systems to drive equity and opportunity. With a rich background in public policy, nonprofit leadership, and business engagement, Tim has worked extensively to bridge the gap between education and industry promoting Durable Skills, such as communication, leadership, and critical thinking. Tim is also a Pahara-Aspen Education Fellow and was named one of Getting Smart's “60 People Shaping the Future of K-12 Education."
Learn more about Durable Skills: https://americasucceeds.org/policy-priorities/durable-skills
Learn more about Pathsmith:
Pushing The Limits Of CTE-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep. 55 w/Shelley Gates
In this insightful episode, Sylvester Chisom hosts Shelley Gates, a retired administrator who served as Chair of Evanston Township Career and Technical Education Department for 18 years. Shelley shares her journey of transforming the CTE program, advocating for experiential learning, and pushing the boundaries of traditional education to better prepare students for diverse career paths. Her inspiring insights highlight the importance of innovation, community collaboration, and high expectations in shaping meaningful educational experiences. Topics Covered
-An Innovator’s Mindset: Pushing CTE Beyond Boundaries
-Durable Skills: More Than Just Algebra and Entrepreneurship
-Breaking Stereotypes: A New Image for CTE
-Raising the Bar: Expectations in CTE Education
-Transforming CTE: From Traditional to Innovative Programs Shelley Gates Bio:
Shelley Gates, Ed.D., a longtime Evanston resident, served as chair of ETHS’ Career and Technical Education Department for 18 years.
THE NEW AMERICAN MANUFACTURING RENAISSAINCE-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.54 In Global CTE Podcast Episode 54, host Sylvester Chisom sits down with special guest Andrew "The MFG" Crowe to discuss the future of advanced manufacturing and its role in shaping the next generation of innovators. Drew shares his inspiring journey from a two-time felon to a leader in the manufacturing sector, emphasizing the importance of resilience, mentorship, and creating pathways for underrepresented communities. Together, they explore how early exposure to engineering, hands-on learning, and strategic mentorship can empower students to design the world they want to live in. Topics Covered:
-Making Manufacturing Cool Again
-The New American Manufacturing Renaissance Tour
-The Power of Resilience: Overcoming Life’s Curveballs
-Bridging the Skills Gap: Preparing Students for Advanced Manufacturing
-Empowering the Future: Early Exposure to Engineering & Manufacturing
-Building Submarines for National Defense: A Strategic Priority
For listening to this episode Drew has 2 free Ebooks for you. Click here to learn more: https://www.drewcrowemfg.com/store
Drew Crowe Bio:
Andrew 'The MFG' Crowe, a transformative figure in the manufacturing sector. From his beginnings as a teenage father and overcoming his past as a two-time felon, Drew has ascended to the forefront of advanced manufacturing education. He is the former lead professor at Ranken Technical College in St. Louis, where he spearheaded the development of a cutting-edge digital curriculum in Advanced Manufacturing Technology. Andrew's influence extends through his role as co-host of 'Project MFG,' a program dedicated to elevating skilled trades across the U.S. through top-tier competitions. Recognized twice as Aerospace & Aviation Man of the Year and featured in Forbes, Drew's work addresses critical workforce and skills gaps, making him a key voice in shaping the future of manufacturing." Welcome the Voice of the New American Manufacturing Renaissance, Andrew 'The MFG' Crowe.
Empowering Students Through Real-World Learning-Global Career Tech Education Ep.53 w/Zachary Johnson In Episode 53 of the Global Career Tech Education Podcast, host Sylvester Chisom interviews Zachary Johnson from North Kansas City School District about Class Act Coffee, an innovative student-run coffee shop. Zachary shares how the program teaches students real-world business skills, from marketing and finance to customer service, while offering dual credit and industry-recognized certifications. The episode highlights the future of CTE, including the integration of AI tools and the importance of experiential learning in preparing students for the workforce.
Topics:
-Leading A Student Managed Off-Site Coffee Shop
-Student-Driven Marketing: Freedom to Experiment
-The Future of CTE: Staying Relevant and Embracing AI
-AI as a Problem-Solving Tool: Empowering Students
-Innovative Assessment: Proving Learning through Real-World Evidence Zachary Johnson Bio:
Zachary Johnson is passionate about real- world experiential learning. He utilizes his experiences previously working in the corporate world and owning his own business to walk alongside students through their learning process. He seeks to assist students in becoming fully prepared for their future whether that be college, trade school or entering the workforce. Zachary currently teaches in the North Kansas City School District facilitating their innovative new student-run and operated coffee shop, Class Act Coffee, that is an off-campus program and fully open to the public He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business-Marketing and a Master's of Arts in Teaching degree both from the University of Central Missouri. This is his second year as a mentor teacher with the Kauffman Foundation Client Connection Project Teacher Network, but has been utilizing real-world projects and business partners for many more.
Outside of the classroom, Zachary enjoys spending time with his wife and two kids, hiking, reading, participating in sports, and spending time with friends.
Sylvester has a free gift for you!
A Free Career Tech Education Masterclass Here:
https://workwithglobalcte.com/
Equipping Students for Career, Community, and Life Readiness Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep. 52 In Episode #52 of the Global CTE Podcast, host Sylvester Chisom welcomes Scott Carr, Career, Community, and Life Readiness Consultant at CESA 2 in Wisconsin. Together, they explore the transformative power of educational ecosystems that put students at the center, highlighting the importance of early career exposure, competency-based learning, and fostering innovation in the classroom. Scott shares his vision for a future where educators empower students to take ownership of their learning journey, preparing them for success in both life and work. Topics Covered:
-Empowering Teachers Through Transformational Leadership
-The Future is CCLR: A Year-Long Conference to Drive Change
-Competency-Based Learning: The Future of Education
-Measuring Success: Beyond Resumes to Durable Skills-Student-Driven Learning: Putting Purpose First
-A Vision for the Future: Building an Educational Ecosystem
Scott Carr Bio: Scott Carr is the Career, Community, and Life Readiness Consultant at CESA 2 in Wisconsin, one of the 12 CESA agencies that support school districts.. With over 30 years of experience, Scott has dedicated his career to helping schools reimagine and redefine their educational systems to focus on career and community readiness. Growing up in a small town in Wisconsin, Scott was the youngest of three boys and found his purpose later in life, inspired by his own children's educational journeys. He holds degrees in education and leadership and has made significant contributions to various school districts and collaborative educational service agencies, particularly in the areas of special education, career readiness, and community engagement.
Sylvester has a free gift for you!
A Free Career Tech Education Masterclass Here:
https://workwithglobalcte.com/
