Join host Craig Williams for an inspiring conversation with Ellen Burns, Dean of Career and Technical Education, and Jessa Morgan, Trades Program Advocate at Carl Sandburg College. Together, these two dynamic leaders are revolutionizing how students discover and pursue careers in the skilled trades.
Discover how Sandburg's "Goldilocks approach"—not too big, not too small, but just right—creates an ecosystem where students thrive through hands-on learning, strong industry partnerships, and innovative technology like VR career exploration. Learn about hidden gem programs like industrial maintenance, where 19-year-olds can earn $70,000+ annually, and medical office administration that offers remote work opportunities.
Ellen and Jessa share candid insights about leading in traditionally male-dominated fields, how the pandemic unexpectedly enhanced CTE programming, and why their approach of "making it feel like home" is producing remarkable results. From state-of-the-art facilities that rival professional workplaces to the power of eating lunch together in a shared student lounge, this conversation reveals the human side of technical education.
Whether you're a student exploring career options, a parent wondering about alternatives to traditional four-year degrees, or someone considering a career change at any age, this episode demonstrates why the skilled trades represent opportunity, security, and fulfillment in today's economy.
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