Whether you are navigating Work-based Learning experiences for students in your CTE pathways for the first time or if you are a seasoned pro; this session will support looking at sharing best practices, resources, and partnerships as we create these meaningful learning opportunities for our students.
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.
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 18111190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210
Students are asked to walk into locations they are not familiar with, work with people they don't know, and learn from those experiences. At the end of this session, participants will get a gift from the KHSIA, as well as:
1. Examine issues that students could encounter on the way to and from a work-based learning experience and how to mitigate those risks to them and your program. 2. Examine issues within the work-based learning experience that a student may need to deal with and how to mitigate those risks. 3. Explore how to improve a student's work-based learning experiences by addressing how to get the most out of their learning.
Health Science/Sports Medicine Teacher, USD 512 Shawnee Mission School District
Kevin has finished his eight year in the classroom, where he teaches sports medicine and a couple of work-based learning courses. His emphasis on preparation for the work-based learning and his relationships with preceptors allow for a smooth transition for students into the clinical... Read More →
Monday July 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT RC 15711190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210
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.
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 14511190 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66210
