2026 K-ACTE Career Tech Summit has ended

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2026 K-ACTE Career Tech Summit

Welcome to the K-ACTE Career Tech Summit 2026: Shaping the Next Generation of Workers!

You will be able to validate your attendance (Check-In to sessions) using your personal schedule.

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10:45am CDT

AI 201 | Designing Instruction in an AI Enhanced Classroom

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT

Once you understand what AI is, the exciting question becomes: how do I use it intentionally and powerfully? This high energy, hands-on workshop moves beyond awareness into real time application. Educators will experiment with classroom ready AI tools, test how they function, and design learning experiences on the spot, including building, refining, and rethinking instructional tasks that elevate student thinking rather than replace it. Expect learning by doing, collaborative problem solving, and practical takeaways you can implement the very next day.

Key Takeaways
Hands on experience using AI tools in real time
Strategies for designing AI supported tasks that increase rigor rather than reduce it
Approaches to strengthen clarity and creativity in instruction
Ready to implement ideas for your classroom

Speakers

Dyane Smokorowski

Digital Literacy & Citizenship Coordinator, Wichita Public Schools

Dyane Smokorowski is an accomplished educator, having been inducted into the National Teacher Hall of Fame in 2019 and named 2013 Kansas Teacher of the Year. As Coordinator of Digital Literacy in the Wichita Public Schools, she fosters a student-centered classroom that builds skills... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT
RC 175 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KLCTE, KTIEA
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject All CTE

10:45am CDT

Artificial Intelligence as a Tool for Advancing CAD Education

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT

This presentation examines how artificial intelligence enhances computer-aided drafting instruction. It highlights AI tools that support design exploration, creativity, and real-time feedback, and emphasizes integrating AI into CAD curricula to prepare students for complex design challenges. Participants will be encouraged to share experiences and ideas related to AI use in drafting or CTE education.

Speakers

Kim Stewart

Professor and Chair of the Department of Applied Technology, Fort Hays State University

Kim M. Stewart is Professor and Chair of the Department of Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) in Hays, Kansas. A faculty member since 1997, he has led the department since 2012 and was instrumental in the design and construction of the Center for Applied Technology, a 58,000-square-foot... Read More →

Heather Cleveland

Assistant Professor Department of Applied Technology, Fort Hays State University

Heather Cleveland is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University in the Peter Werth College of Science, Technology, and Mathematics. She holds a Master of Science in Education and a Bachelor of Science in Technology Studies from FHSU... Read More →

Eric Deneault

Professor Department of Applied Technology, Fort Hays State University

Eric L. Deneault is a Professor in the Department of Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University, where he teaches Engineering Design Technology, Construction Management, and Technology and Engineering Education. He holds a terminal degree, a Master’s in Instructional Technology... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT
RC 155 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KTIEA
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject Engineering & Technology, Skilled Trades

10:45am CDT

New Class but NO Curriculum?

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT

Are you teaching a new class but have no textbook, lesson plans, or curriculum maps? Do you need to give a current class an overhaul? Fall 2025 I found myself in this exact spot, a brand new class being offered across the state, but no curriculum provided. Come to a hands-on workshop to build the curriculum directly from your course competency using AI products.

Speakers

Shanta' Kemp

Computer Teacher, Ottawa High School

Shanta’ Kemp taught for five years in Wellsville, KS, then left teaching to run a successful Pampered Chef business for 15 years. In 2016, she returned to the classroom via a long term substitute position at Ottawa High School that turned into a full-time position. Currently Shanta... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT
RC 245 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KTIEA
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject All CTE

10:45am CDT

Pitching with Purpose: Bringing Client-Connected Projects into Any Classroom

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT

Engage students by giving their work purpose beyond the classroom. This session showcases how Speech classes at Gardner Edgerton High School partnered with local government and business professionals to create meaningful, client-connected projects. Students addressed real challenges and pitched their ideas directly to decision-makers. Participants will gain a step-by-step look at how the project was developed, how community partners were engaged, and how student and client feedback shaped the experience. The presenter will also discuss how this framework can be adapted to fit a wide range of courses and disciplines.

Speakers

Jaylene Freeman

CTE and RWL Coordinator, USD 231 Gardner Edgerton

Jaylene Freeman has a background in secondary education and business, with degrees from Kansas State University and Baker University. She’s spent her career helping students connect classroom learning to real-world experiences while teaching a wide range of business and technology... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT
RC 270 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KLCTE, KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KTIEA
Session Type Business & Community Partnerships, Student Career Development, Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject All CTE

10:45am CDT

The Student Who Struggles: Why CTE is the Perfect Intervention

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT

In every school, there is a student who struggles. They can’t sit still. They miss assignments. They are labeled unmotivated, distracted, or difficult. Traditional classrooms often magnify their deficits, but Career & Technical Education can unlock their potential.
This session explores why many students who struggle academically are not incapable they are experiencing executive function skill gaps, regulation challenges, or learning environments that don’t match how they are wired to succeed. CTE classrooms, with their hands-on structure, real-world application, and built-in accountability, are uniquely positioned to serve as powerful interventions.
Participants will learn practical, shop-ready strategies to support executive function development, embed workforce readiness into daily routines, and design CTE environments that transform struggling students into thriving contributors. This is not about lowering expectations, it’s about building systems that allow students to rise to them.
Walk away with actionable tools you can implement immediately to better serve the student who struggles, and turn potential into performance.

Speakers

Stacey Jones

Director, Highland Community College

Director of Highland Community College's Western Center a Technical Education Campus for both high school students through Excel in CTE and for Post Secondary Students.

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT
RC 232 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KTIEA, KAAE, KLCTE
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject All CTE

10:45am CDT

Why Is Career Exploration so Critical Today?

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT

HirePaths Founder and Manhattan mom Kristin Brighton will overview the latest national and state data behind why Kansas and the entire United States need to invest heavily in career exploration, starting with students as young as elementary school. She'll also share her personal story as a parent and entrepreneur and overview HirePaths, which offers free, Kansas-based career resources you can easily integrate into your district's classrooms.

Speakers

Kristin Brighton

Founder, HirePaths

Kristin Brighton is one of the principals and founders of New Boston Creative Group LLC, an integrated marketing communications firm based in Manhattan.

Ms. Brighton is the founder of HirePaths, a marketing campaign to introduce Kansas kids to high-demand careers.

In addition to her professional work, Ms. Brighton is an elected member of the USD 383 Manhattan-Ogden School Board, and she was the 2016 chair of the board for the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT
RC 181 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KLCTE, KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KTIEA
Session Type Clusters/Pathways, Engaging Instructional Methods, Student Career Development, Work-Based Learning
Subject All CTE

1:00pm CDT

Constructing Excellence: How to Build a Program That Produces Industry-Ready Professionals

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT

What does it take to turn learners into job-ready professionals in today’s construction industry? This session breaks down the blueprint for success—covering curriculum design, experiential learning, employer collaboration, and program scalability—while highlighting how Kansas Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways can be leveraged to strengthen program alignment and student outcomes. Walk away with actionable strategies to build or enhance a program that delivers skilled, confident, and workforce-ready graduates.

Speakers

Nathan Howard

Associate Professor, Fort Hays State University

Associate Professor in the Department of Applied Technology at Fort Hays State University. Lead professor in construction management and lead sponsor of Associated General Contractors student organization.

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
RC 245 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KTIEA
Session Type Work-Based Learning, Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject Skilled Trades, Engineering & Technology

1:00pm CDT

From Rubric to Results: Workshopping Strong SAE Grant Applications

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT

Take the guesswork out of SAE grant applications. In this hands-on session, Ag educators will break down the grant rubric, analyze sample applications, and identify what makes a proposal stand out. Participants will work collaboratively to strengthen ideas, align to scoring criteria, and draft key components of their own application. Leave with practical tools, clearer direction, and a stronger plan for submitting a competitive SAE grant.

Speakers

Mary Lonker

ELA Program Manager, Kansas State Department of Education

Mary Lonker has spent 30 years in English Language Arts education, teaching both middle and high school students. She taught 8th grade English as well as over 20 years of high school English, including a decade in AP Language and Composition, and is certified to teach AP Seminar... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
RC 238 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KAAE, KTIEA
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject Agriculture, Skilled Trades

1:00pm CDT

Real-World Personal Finance: Helping Students Navigate Today’s Money Culture

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT

Personal finance is evolving faster than most curriculum can keep up. From sports betting and fast fashion to Buy Now Pay Later services and influencer investing, students are making complex financial decisions in real time. This interactive session gives CTE educators practical, classroom ready strategies to address emerging trends while reinforcing core concepts such as risk, credit, incentives, and consumer protection.

Speakers

Ryan Wood

Midwest Partnerships Manager, Next Gen Personal Finance

Ryan supports teachers, districts, and states in delivering engaging, high-impact personal finance instruction. A former business and marketing teacher, he brings firsthand classroom experience to his work with CTE leaders and educators. He focuses on practical implementation by helping... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
RC 175 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KBOA, KATFACS
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods, Student Career Development
Subject Business & Marketing, Family & Consumer Sciences

1:00pm CDT

Teaching Tomorrow’s Tech: Preparing Students for Cyber, Cloud & AI Careers

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT

Step into the future of IT education with an engaging look at the skills students need to succeed in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and AI. This session blends research‑driven workforce insights with practical strategies that educators can apply in a variety of classroom settings. We will examine how modern IT roles are evolving, what early‑career professionals are expected to know, and how teachers can build those foundations with clarity and confidence. The session will include a few light interactive elements and helpful resources to support discussion, but the primary focus will remain on understanding trends and strengthening IT pathways. Participants will leave with practical ideas and a stronger framework for preparing students for tomorrow’s technology careers.

Speakers

Hondo Tamez

Assistant Professor of IT/Department Chair, Johnson County Community College

Hondo Tamez is an Associate Professor and the Department Chair of Information Technology at Johnson County Community College. He spends his time exploring the worlds of networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and all the other tech that keeps modern life running. Hondo holds industry... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
RC 232 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KBOA
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods, Student Career Development, Data & Program Improvement
Subject Engineering & Technology

2:00pm CDT

AI as a Teaching Tool: Practical Applications for Every CTE Program

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT

Artificial intelligence is already embedded in the industries our students are entering. CTE educators do not need to become AI developers, but they do need to understand how AI tools can enhance instruction, improve efficiency, and better prepare students for modern workplaces.

This interactive session focuses on practical, hands on applications of AI tools that educators across all CTE pathways can implement immediately. Participants will explore how AI can support lesson planning, rubric creation, technical documentation, troubleshooting simulations, formative assessment, and student skill development. Rather than emphasizing coding or technical AI development, the session centers on what AI can realistically do, where it adds value, and how to guide students in using it professionally and ethically.

Through structured peer collaboration, attendees will design one AI integrated classroom activity tailored to their own program area. By the end of the session, participants will leave with a drafted implementation plan, example prompts aligned to their field, and a clear framework for integrating AI as a productivity and learning tool within existing coursework.

Speakers

Hondo Tamez

Assistant Professor of IT/Department Chair, Johnson County Community College

Hondo Tamez is an Associate Professor and the Department Chair of Information Technology at Johnson County Community College. He spends his time exploring the worlds of networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and all the other tech that keeps modern life running. Hondo holds industry... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
RC 238 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KLCTE, KTIEA
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods, Data & Program Improvement
Subject All CTE

2:00pm CDT

Be Future Ready: Empowering Tomorrow’s Financial Leaders

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT

With digitization reshaping the way we bank, pay, and earn, it's crucial to deepen students’ understanding so they can navigate our evolving financial landscape. This session will explore a new online course that delves into the innovative world of finance and technology through a student lens.

The lessons cover digital banking and payments, how to manage one’s digital financial footprint, social trends that intersect with finance, risks associated with digital banking and payments, digital currencies, avoiding financial frauds and scams, and more. The three stand-alone modules offer student-centered activities, built-in assessments, and a comprehensive teacher’s guide, and can also be integrated into existing learning management systems for students to complete independently. Join this session to discover how this new curriculum can help teens take control of their financial future and empower them to make more informed choices in our digital world.

Speakers

Gigi Wolf Neil

Director of Education, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City

Gigi Wolf Neil is Director of Education for the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, where she coordinates the strategic direction of education outreach throughout Kansas, western Missouri, and the region. She has extensive experience developing curricula related to economics, entrepreneurship... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
RC 175 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KBOA, KATFACS
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject Business & Marketing, Family & Consumer Sciences

2:00pm CDT

Beyond the Credential: How the "Whole-Scholar" Model Achieves a 75% Persistence Rate

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT

Most programs stop at graduation. We don't. Learn how Great Jobs KC uses a 5-pillar ecosystem (Intake to 1-Year Post-Employment Coaching) to achieve a 75% persistence rate and an average salary increase of 176%.

Using recent Mathematica Evaluation data to prove that tuition-free training is only half the battle. That providing on-going Scholar support through one-to-one coaching and robust community services leads to better outcomes and stronger employees.

Takeaways:
The "Scholar Advocate" framework: Moving beyond academic advising to life-barrier removal (transportation, tech, child care).

Using data to track success, not just completion.
Training in a holistic manner with mandatory life skill workshops leads to more well-rounded employee for area employers.
Strategies for building an "Employer Network Team" that guarantees a pipeline, not just a job board.

Speakers

Macenzie Tucker

Senior Director of Workforce Development and Scholar Success , Great Jobs KC

As the Senior Director of Workforce Development and Scholar Success, Macenzie Tucker is responsible for overseeing core programming for the adult workforce development program, Great Jobs KC tuition-free job training. Macenzie Tucker holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from... Read More →

Alex Shaw

Great Jobs KC

Alex is an accomplished professional with a diverse skill set and a huge passion for workforce development. Alex has previously worked in education, behavioral health, county government, IT, and even construction! With experience in different organizations and settings, she has... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
RC 155 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KHSIA, KLCTE, KTIEA
Session Type Access and Supports, Engaging Instructional Methods, Student Career Development
Subject Health Sciences, Skilled Trades

2:00pm CDT

Including Culture in Health Care

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT

Including culture in health care is a teaching mindset that creates a positive and inclusive learning environment that includes students' culture allowing them to lean into their learning. You will receive lessons and visuals to take back to your classroom.

Speakers

Danielle Espinosa

Science Teacher, USD259

Danielle Espinosa is a dedicated educator with 14 years of experience, currently teaching Biology and Biomedical Pathway courses at Wichita North High School. Passionate about project-based learning, CTE, and edtech, she fosters innovative, transformative experiences that empower... Read More →

Paige Tillotson

Science Teacher, USD259

Paige Tillotson is a Health Science and Biomedical educator at Wichita North High School. Her focus goes beyond content. Within her classroom, she wants her students to walk away knowing they are capable of doing hard things and growing through the process. She prioritizes teaching... Read More →

Jill Pelz

Science Teacher, USD259

Jill Pelz has been in education for 18 years, where she has spent the last 8 years at Wichita North High educating students in biology, the biomedical pathway, health science, and sports medicine. She is passionate about preparing students for careers in healthcare through hands-on... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
RC 255 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KHSIA
Session Type Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject Health Sciences

2:00pm CDT

Leveling Up Your Labs with iCEV

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT

Take your hands‑on learning to the next level with iCEV! This session highlights quick, practical ways to enhance your classroom labs using iCEV’s built‑in activities, projects, and management tools. Learn how to customize labs, integrate industry‑aligned skills, and streamline prep time while boosting student engagement. Perfect for educators looking to modernize and simplify their lab-based instruction.

Speakers

Dr. Calee McElwain

Territory Manager, iCEV

Dr. Calee McElwain is the iCEV Territory Manager for Kansas and Missouri. She spent 25+ years in public education in a variety of roles including classroom teacher, instructional coach, and curriculum director. She has experience in both rural and suburban school districts. Dr... Read More →

Monday July 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
RC 270 11190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Concurrent Session

Affiliate KLCTE, KAAE, KATFACS, KBOA, KHSIA, KTIEA
Session Type Clusters/Pathways, Engaging Instructional Methods
Subject All CTE