Presenters

NameBioPhotoURL
Nathan Simpsonlorem ipsum dolor
Arnaz Dotivala Lead Teacher Workshop Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2024 Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Virginia Association for Trade and Industrial Educators (VATIE) Conference Join us for the Lead Teacher Workshop, an interactive session designed specifically for Trade and Industrial Education Lead Teachers. During this workshop, we will:Review the key responsibilities and expectations of Lead TeachersStrengthen strategies for collaboration across schools, regions, and industry sectorsExplore effective ways to engage and support Trade and Industrial teachersDiscuss how to build and sustain meaningful connections with business and community partnersThrough guided discussion and shared experiences, participants will walk away with practical tools and strategies to enhance cluster participation and elevate their leadership roles across the Commonwealth. Whether you are a returning Lead Teacher or new to the role, this session is a valuable opportunity to connect, reflect, and lead with purpose. We look forward to seeing you there!
Courtney BakerCourtney Baker, CWDP, serves as the Senior Director of Workforce & Training for the Associated General Contractors of Virginia (AGCVA). A Certified Workforce Development Professional, Courtney partners with community organizations, educators, and contractors to build clear pathways into construction careers. Drawing on her roots in a family of contractors, she brings passion and authenticity to promoting the industry and the people who power it.Courtney has served on advisory boards for SkillsUSA Virginia, K–12 CTE programs, and the Build Virginia initiative under Governor Northam. She’s led successful statewide campaigns—including securing a Governor’s Proclamation for Careers in Construction Month—to raise awareness of opportunities in the skilled trades.Outside of work, Courtney enjoys traveling, biking, paddleboarding, and disc golfing with her husband, Jerry, their sensitive Bernedoodle, Auggie, and their spirited Portuguese Water Dog, Fynn. This dynamic session brings together construction industry professionals and CTE educators to strengthen the bridge between classroom learning and real-world application. Led by members of the Associated General Contractors of Virginia (AGCVA), including contractors actively shaping the workforce, the presentation will spotlight evolving construction methods, in-demand technologies, and the skills today’s employers need most.Instructors will hear directly from AGCVA members through presentations, hands-on demonstrations in a fabrication lab or jobsite (where available), and real-time conversations about how to better align curriculum with industry practices. Just as importantly, this session is designed to listen—to gain a deeper understanding of what CTE educators need and how the construction industry can meaningfully support their work.Together, we’ll explore practical, collaborative ways to empower students, strengthen programs, and build a talent pipeline that benefits everyone.
Tori CashTori Cash is an Account Executive in the K12 space of Interplay Learning, an educational technology company that provides skilled trades training for schools (k12 and higher education), and industry partners such as carrier, goodman, and Lowes, along with SMB partners. She is a former high school and middle school teacher who has moved into educational technology to support students and instructors in the skilled trades classroom. She has 3 children, 2 dogs, and 2 cats and is a military spouse who has taught in 4 different states.
Nathan Pope(Writer/Editor, CTE Resource Center)
Toni Garcia-Jackson
Kelley SmithKelley Smith is the Executive Director for the Board for Barbers and Cosmetology at the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. She has approximately 15 years of experience in licensing and regulatory programs for the Commonwealth of Virginia and previously practiced law at a mid-size firm in Richmond, Virginia. Kelley holds a Juris Doctor from University of Richmond and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Laura Smith CTE Teacher S.O.S., Support Options for Success is designed to aid new, career-switcher teachers in transitioning to the classroom from industry by providing mentor support, in-time information, and access to helpful resources. The full-day or mini-sessions will provide Career Switcher Educators in Career & Technical Education with training, support, and mentorship that will aid in teacher success and retention, as well as add to the success of CTE students.Full day session - 8:30 - 5 Tuesday, July 22, 2025, Mini-Session(s) - Wednesday, July 23, 2025 during breakout sessions.
Stephanie KielStephanie Kiel is your Pearson/NCCER executive Director dedicated to the state of Virginia. She is passionate about education and has been supporting educational programs with Pearson since 2011.Get updates on the NCCERconnect platform that you already have access to and learn about the new adaptive learning and AI study tools as well as all new curriculum updates. You will also learn about the NCCER and HammerMath® partnership and get free access. HammerMath is an innovative, hands-on approach to teaching fractions and measurements. It helps students see and comprehend math in a different way and provides tools and activities that help students stay engaged.
Joyce Price
Davis and Green Services/ Greg GreenBuilding partnerships with Business and Industry (No matter what you teach)Work –Based Learning /Youth Registered Apprenticeship (how it leads into apprenticeship)The need for our young people to understand that learning is lifelong. (lifelong learner) About Me: I am an experienced CEO with over 30 years in the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC industry. I have a proven track record of leadership, technical expertise, and business acumen. I am passionate about empowering employees and delivering exceptional service. I am adept at financial planning, tax strategies, and business growth through mergers and acquisitions.
Wayne WhiteSkillsUSA-what to know Classroom management: lecture/notes
Jacquelin MortonOriginally from Maryland, and a graduate of Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, Jacqueline Morton is the Virginia Coordinator for Workforce Development and Education at IEC Chesapeake. Her career began in public education, serving nine years in Virginia Beach City Public Schools as a High School History teacher. Following her tenure as classroom teacher, Jacqueline worked in commercial development. In her current role she has been able to blend the best of both worlds by providing workforce development and education opportunities directly into the electrical industry. Jacqueline looks forward to strengthening existing relationships with school divisions in the Commonwealth and developing new relationships with school divisions she has not yet worked with.IEC Chesapeake Electrical Apprenticeship Program For more than 40 years, IEC Chesapeake has been the region’s leading electrical and renewable energy contractor association and electrical apprenticeship program provider. Our members are comprised of more than 250 contractors and associate partners, representing over 50,000 men and women in all facets of the electrical industry. Teaching hundreds of electrical apprentices and licensed electricians each year, and representing and advocating on behalf of our member companies, IEC Chesapeake is dedicated to educating, promoting and advancing the electrical industry. Our primary mission is education, and our greatest relationship exists with our K-12 partnerships which create a natural pipeline from school to career!
[email protected]Deborah Tripp, graphic communications teacher and SkillsUSA advisor for over thirty years. She serves as lead teacher at the Academies of Loudoun.Classroom Success and Set-up. It’s a new school year. Where to start with classroom/lab/shop set-up for the new school year. We will discuss what, why and how of classroom management techniques. Also learn from other teachers and share best practices.
Christine EvansThis educator training equips instructors with the essential skills and knowledge to confidently teach traditional straight razor shaving. We’ll cover proper razor handling, sanitation, skin prep, shave techniques, lathering, and client safety. Designed specifically for educators, this class also includes tips on curriculum delivery, student evaluation, and creating a safe learning environment. Walk away certified and ready to train the next generation of barbers and stylists.Christine's passion for education has been the cornerstone of her career in the beauty industry. Early on, she discovered her love for teaching while working alongside Kelly Cardenas and serving as a Paul Mitchell Platform educator. This drive to empower others led her to roles as a Learning Leader at Paul Mitchell the School Las Vegas, a Sport Clips Ambassador, and a national educator for Hanzo. Her notable experiences include working on J.Lo's performance at the 2013 Billboard Awards and collaborating with a diverse array of celebrities like O.J. Simpson, Greg Maddox, and Gerard Gallant. Christine's talent and expertise have garnered recognition, with her work featured in publications such as Vegas Weekly and Zappos, as well as on prestigious runways like Main Stage IBS Las Vegas, Main stage Pennsylvania beauty Pro Expo, and Paul Mitchell’s Caper+Gathering
Jennifer EureThis session will provide an overview of key concepts in special education, including the differences between IEPs and 504 Plans, common disabilities and how they may present in a classroom setting, and frequently used special education acronyms. We’ll also discuss typical accommodations instructors may be asked to implement and explore practical strategies for effectively educating and engaging students with disabilities in technical programs. This session is designed to build confidence and competence in creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment.I am a dedicated Special Education professional with over 20 years of experience in instructional support, educational leadership, and inclusive practices. Currently, I serve as a CTE Special Education Support Specialist, where I support students with disabilities in technical programs and provide professional development to instructional staff. I hold an Education Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction in Special Education, and throughout my career, I’ve worked as a teacher, case manager, program director, and testing coordinator. I’m passionate about equity, innovation, and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
[email protected]Deborah Tripp, graphic communications teacher and SkillsUSA advisor for over thirty years. She serves as lead teacher at the Academies of Loudoun.Mock Interviews. Looking for ways to help your students get ready for the interviews. Participants in this session we will cover how to set-up and run mock interviews, using your business partners as the interviewer. We will share steps for set-up and conducing the interviews.
Matthew Favaro, C-TechMatthew Favaro is a Program Specialist at C-Tech, serving as a primary point of contact for educational partnerships and program implementation. With five years of experience as a high school teacher, Matthew offers unique insights into classroom needs and effective instructional strategies. At C-Tech, he supports educational institutions and correctional facilities by providing comprehensive training, technical guidance, and strategic assistance to successfully integrate vocational training programs and prepare students for high-demand careers.Preparing Students for the Future of Connectivity: Hands-On Career Training in Broadband Infrastructur as the demand for high-speed internet and data infrastructure continues to grow, so does the need for a skilled workforce to support it. This session explores the emerging job market in broadband telecommunications, with a focus on how schools can prepare students for meaningful, long-term careers in copper, fiber optic, and wireless technologies. Educators will gain insight into the structure and impact of C-Tech’s Broadband Academy—a hands-on, industry-informed program that aligns classroom learning with real-world technical skills. With a focus on accessibility, engagement, and workforce readiness, this session will highlight how students—especially those often underrepresented in technical fields—can earn stackable certifications and develop career-relevant competencies in a rapidly expanding industry. Whether you are looking to enhance your existing CTE offerings or explore new pathways that connect students to high-demand technical careers, this session will offer practical takeaways for building programs that make a lasting difference in students’ lives.
Marcia BirdClass Name: Multiple Methods for Multiple Intelligences The Multiple Methods for Multiple Intelligences course is designed to empower educators with the knowledge and skills to effectively cater to the diverse learning needs of their students. Based on the pioneering work of Howard Gardner and his theory of multiple intelligences, this course explores how each student possesses a unique set of intelligences that influence their learning preferences and strengths. You will delve into the principles of learning styles and gain an understanding of the theory of multiple intelligences. We will explore a wide range of teaching and learning strategies tailored to each intelligence, enabling you to create engaging and inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive.Marcia Bird has just over four decades of experience comprised of the salon and school business along with education management for product manufacturers. As owner of Protégé, Beauty Education Advising her commitment to quality education and helping others reach their full potential as a beauty professional has been the common thread throughout her career. In 2009, she received the N.F. Cimaglia Educator of the Year Award.
Sidney DelepineJMU Class
Lee RossMaster of Ceremonies/Officer Induction
Michael Payne/Mark MathiasNew Teacher Orientation
Keith LovegroveFederated Auto Parts
Desiree AlexanderShaving hand on clinic