What does it take to improve a college program from the inside?
This year, 16 fellows in the ACTE NextLevel Postsecondary CTE Leaders Fellowship set out to answer that question. Each created a “make it better” plan shaped around the needs of their own institution. In their own words, they share what they’re building, how they’ll measure success, and what the year has taught them. The fellowship is a yearlong experience that helps CTE professionals become stronger, more effective leaders.
The plans are as varied as the institutions behind them. At Miller-Motte College, Melissa Hibbard is reimagining faculty onboarding as ongoing growth, with mentorship, learning cohorts, and a badge system that help industry experts become confident educators. At the Community College of Aurora, Misty G. Hull is translating academic outcomes into the language employers actually use. Her new intake survey also connects students with support before financial barriers push them out.
Employer partnership is a strong thread. Kimberly Lea makes the case for replacing annual advisory meetings with ongoing collaboration. In Arizona, Danny Fisher wants one semiconductor technician certification to become the state standard. Jennifer Curtis is building a micro-credential playbook so students on an aircraft maintenance waitlist of more than 100 can start building skills now.
Other fellows focus on students who are too often overlooked. Renato Freitas is building a pipeline from technical college to meaningful jobs for neurodivergent students. Maryann Reid’s pre-apprenticeship pilot suggests the real gap may be purpose, not skills. In her pilot, 27% of participants received interview invitations within 24 hours of graduating.
You’ll also read about preparing career counselors in Maryland, giving high school CTE teachers hands-on industry experience, and guiding adult learners into credential programs. Another plan reimagines a declining aquaculture program in Florida.
Each fellow also shares a lesson learned along the way. Read the full feature below to see all 16 plans.
