Concurrent Sessions – July 29-30
WEDNESDAY 10:15–11:00
Associations in Engineering Between Creative-Self Efficacy, Mindset, and Perceptions
In this session, data analysis that focuses on associations between GPA, creative self-efficacy (CSE), creative mindset and perceptions of engineering as creative will be discussed, comparing female and male undergraduate engineering majors in ten disciplines: biological, architectural, biomedical, chemical, computer, electrical, civil structural, civil environmental, industrial, and mechanical. It is a continuation of research into why certain engineering, and engineering-related professions have higher percentages of women and how success academically (GPA), CSE, fixed creative mindset (FCM), growth creative mindset (GCM), and perceptions of engineering as a creative field may connect to professions that have higher percentages of women.
Christine Delahanty, President, Crossing Education and Grants, Washington Crossing, PA
The Apprenticeship Engine: Building a Workforce Powerhouse from a Struggling Community Program
We started out broken. Our community college program was facing a crisis: student completion rates were dismal, we couldn’t attract or retain essential adjuncts and instructors, and our industry engagement was passive. Companies only found us by accident. In just three years, we executed a complete program overhaul that transformed us into a regional workforce powerhouse. Our program is now at full capacity, exclusively serving major corporate apprenticeship pipelines, including giants like TSMC, Pepsi, Fairlife, Red Bull, and Symbiotic. This is the definitive session for leaders seeking to bridge the skills gap. We will lay out a precise, replicable blueprint for this extraordinary transformation. You will learn and take away our Partnership Algorithm and our Crisis-Proofing Faculty Strategy, Curriculum Restructure, and Replication Blueprint.
Sean Denny, Lead Faculty, Estrella Mountain Community College, Peoria, AZ; Joanne Kingman, Workforce Coordinator, Estrella Mountain Community College, Peoria, AZ
Entrepreneurial STEM
Students use their experiences from STEAM K-7 to launch a business. Students work on their business plan as laid out by the Michigan SBDC and a beginning budget. They take out a small no-interest loan to start, file their LLC, apply for an EIN, and launch their business. Currently, there are several student businesses running. The students learn marketing, web design, graphics, and branding. Students learn about positions within corporations and hold positions themselves such as CEO, CFO, COO, and quality control. Students keep detailed accounting, which includes accounts receivable, accounts payable, invoicing, and filing taxes. The students learn marketing, web design, graphics, branding, etc., as they push their businesses out into the community. The students pay back their loans and begin earning shares of the profit as their businesses grows.
Joseph Walsh, Career Tech Coordinator/STEM Educator, Entrepreneurial STEM, Caife Aspire Inc/Manchester Community Schools, Manchester, MI
Credentials That Connect: Ensuring Quality, Reliability, and Industry Relevance
The increasing emphasis on integrating opportunities for students to earn industry-recognized credentials within technical programs highlights the critical need for rigorous, validated credentialing processes that are guided by ISO/IEC 17024 regulations and align academic and technical preparation with industry expectations. Industry-recognized credentials (IRCs) provide a tangible bridge between curricula and workforce development by validating competencies valued by employers. This presentation uses the Biotechnology Aptitude and Competency Exam (BACE) as a model for identifying critical elements for consideration when either developing or considering an existing credential for curriculum integration. In this session we will explore the processes and standards that ensure quality, reliability, and relevance in credentialing systems, and discuss approaches for embedding IRC standards into coursework to enhance student opportunity and career readiness.
Tamara Mandell, Director, University of Florida, Biotility, Gainesville, FL
Collaborating for Success: Industry Engagement and Grant Development
In this session, MNT-EC and MNT-EC mentees will share proven practices for working with industry and engaging various partners, including community colleges and their academic programs or grants. Participants can ask questions, get feedback, and hear how other institutions are teaming up with industry. MNT-EC will also be on hand to help institutions interested in learning more about the development of a grant idea, the writing of a grant proposal, identification of potential partnerships, and the overall proposal development process. MNT-EC will provide the information and support needed on how to get started.
Billie Copley, Center Director, Micro Nano Technology Education Center (MNT-EC), Pasadena City College, Pasadena, CA; Jared Ashcroft, PI, MNT-EC, Micro Nano Technology Education Center, Pasadena City College, Pasadena, CA; Mel Cossette, CO-PI, MNT-EC, Edmonds College, Edmonds, WA
Connecting Classrooms Across Continents: A Case Study in Virtual Exchange
A detailed overview of a virtual exchange linking students in Iowa (Kirkwood Community College) and South Africa (University of Mpulunga) that happened in February of 2026 to explore ethical issues in IT. This presentation explains the session design, student assignments, discussion prompts, and collaborative outcomes. Attendees will learn how virtual exchanges can enrich curriculum, build global awareness, and encourage diverse perspectives on technology ethics. The presenters will provide attendees with a model for integrating virtual exchanges into their programs.
Bryan Bennett, Associate Professor/Coordinator Cybersecurity and Compliance, Kirkwood Community College, Cedar Rapids, IA; Shawn Lampe, Assistant Professor/Coordinator Network and System Administration, Kirkwood Community College, Cedar Rapids, IA
Women in Transportation: Lessons Learned From Recruitment
This session will cover the various obstacles currently facing recruitment of women in male-dominated fields and what the trending factors are. We will discuss feedback that was accumulated by Central Piedmont Community College from various focus group meetings, employer events, and student interactions. Participants will reflect and perform a SWOT analysis for their own organizations considering the lessons they learned from the feedback presented.
Kiara Baldwin, Program Developer, Central Piedmont Community College, Huntersville, NC
Six Strategies to Build Impactful CTE Programs
Orange Technical College operates on seven campuses in the Orlando area and on over twenty high school campuses, serving over 59,000 secondary and postsecondary students. This session will discuss how OTC builds impactful CTE programs within local school districts to serve students with the training they need to obtain employment in a number of career fields, including health science, manufacturing, information technology, and digital arts, while collaborating with the State of Florida Department of Education on curriculum, licensure, and funding. The presenters will explore a number of elements – with practical examples – essential to a successful CTE program, including employer advisory boards, the accreditation process, and the developmenht of key partnerships and articulation agreements with other educational institutions. Attendees, whether new to CTE programs or experiencing challenges managing CTE programs, will be able to adapt and adopt OTC’s CTE models at their own programs.
Andy Weeks, Program Chair, Arts, A/V Technology and Communication, Orange Technical College, Orlando, FL; Jodie Rolston-Cary, Senior Director, Orange Technical College, Orlando, FL
AI Tutors for Technical Education and Workforce Skills
Explore how customized AI tutor models, using tools such as ChatGPT and Copilot as examples, can support learning across technical and workforce education programs, including manufacturing, industrial automation, mechatronics, IT, healthcare, automotive, and skilled trades. This practitioner-led session focuses on how faculty and trainers can design, deploy, and govern AI tutors that align with competency-based instruction and applied learning environments. Attendees will learn a practical, tool-agnostic framework for using AI tutors to reinforce technical concepts, support lab and hands-on learning, maintain academic integrity, and improve student access to just-in-time support without replacing instructors.
Peter Dettmer, Dean, Redefining Technical Education and Closing the Skills-Gap Through Work-Based Learning, Blackhawk Technical College, Janesville, WI
Using (AI) with the CSET Tool to Create a Critical Infrastructure Sector Risk Assessment
This presentation will cover the process of using AI in developing a CSET Tool Risk Assessment Assignment. The presentation will cover CSET/AI scenarios that will use an Oil and Gas Pipeline Company IT/OT Risk Assessment example. The challenge in performing a CSET tool Risk Assessment in an academic environment is having the business and IT subject matter experts’ input to answer the questions generated by the CSET tool. This presentation will demonstrate how AI was used to simulate the SMEs in a realistic manner.
Stephen Miller, Consultant/Professor Emeritus, NCyTE, Bellingham, WA
From AI Policy to Controls: Enforceable Guardrails for STEM Labs
AI policies often fail because they stop at principles. This session shows how to translate “allowed use” into enforceable controls for AI-assisted tutoring, coding help, and lab work, specifically least-privilege tool permissions, safe data boundaries, and audit-ready evidence capture. Participants will learn a control-mapping method (policy → controls → evidence) and apply it to a realistic classroom scenario, including a short prompt-injection tabletop that reveals common failure modes. Attendees will leave with a one-page checklist, a permissions manifest template, an injection test set, and a rubric addendum for evidence-first dispute handling that protects learning integrity without banning AI.
Samuel Addington, Professor and AI Researcher, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA
Mastering the Mega Trends Shaping The Next Generation of Talent
Following his keynote, join education and generational expert Mark C. Perna for a closer look at engaging today’s young people. You’ll gain actionable insights, strategies, and tools you can start using immediately! To build strong pipelines, we must understand the mega trends driving the younger generations. At all levels of education and employment, young people can be motivated by building their own personal competitive advantage. A compelling vision of their preferred future, achievable through their competitive advantage, inspires them to make the most of their education and career journey. Mark’s vast experience with communities of all sizes has given him the inside track on bringing diverse stakeholders together around a shared vision. Educators, employers, parents, and communities everywhere are using Mark’s proven tools to set a rally point that gets things done. This candid conversation will help you learn to drive young people’s highest performance—at school, work, and beyond!
Mark Perna, Speaker, Author and CEO, TFS Results, Richfield, OH
CREATE’s Greatest Hits Vol. 3: Battery Storage and Charge Control
How are battery storage and energy consumption governed in a solar PV system with energy storage? Learn how in this completely revised classroom lesson: Battery Storage and Charge Control. Using a tabletop solar PV system with battery storage, we’ll demonstrate the functions of a charge controller in governing current flow. Charge controller functions will become clear as we predict, measure, and explain volts and amps on PV components in a variety of dynamic settings. We’ll review everything needed to perform this powerful lab activity—another engaging, easy-to-use lesson for educators from the legendary supergroup CREATE.
Joel Shoemaker, Electrical Apprentice Instructor, Madison (WI) College, CREATE Energy Center, Madison College, Madison, WI; Scott Liddicoat, Author and Trainer, CREATE Energy Center, CREATE Energy Center, Green Bay, WI
From Fragmented Credentials to Workforce Clarity
As colleges expand programs in electric vehicles, renewable energy, energy storage, and autonomous systems, employers still report difficulty finding qualified technicians and interpreting credentials. This NSF funded session explores why credential misalignment persists and how it can be addressed. Drawing on national surveys, employer and academic interviews, and job posting analysis conducted by the National Electric Vehicle Consortium and NSF ATE partners, this session compares workforce alignment across electrification sectors. Participants will learn how mature fields such as renewable energy and unmanned systems benefit from industry-driven certifications, while newer EV programs remain fragmented and reliant on internal employer training. The session highlights transferable strategies for embedding industry-recognized credentials, strengthening partnerships, and aligning program approval with workforce needs.
Kevin Cooper, Principal Investigator, National Electric Vehicle Consortium, Indian River State College, Ft. Pierce, FL; Ken Walz, Principal Investigator, CREATE, Madison Area Technical College, Madison, WI
AI in Action: A Framework for Translating Industry Technology into Postsecondary CTE Instruction
In this session we will look at how career and technical education (CTE) programs are uniquely positioned to navigate the recent artificial intelligence (AI) driven economy. To assist CTE policymakers, educators, researchers, and students looking for the signal amidst the noise, we propose a new pedagogical framework: the Applied Co-Intelligence (ACI) model. In this session, attendees will learn what the ACI model is and how it moves beyond simple conception of AI literacy and is built on the purposeful integration of three skill spheres—Technical skills, Transferable skills, and AI Mastery—along with the four primary barriers blocking its implementation—the alignment crisis, the human capital gap, the structural barriers, and the evidence gap. Finally, we will discuss a stakeholder-driven plan of action with recommendations for policymakers, education providers, and industry and employers.
Michael Tinsley, Assistant Vice Chancellor, College System of Tennessee, Nashville, KY
Teaching Degrees of Freedom with Humanoid Robot CAD to Improve Student Engagement and Retention
This session presents a hands-on instructional strategy integrated into an existing CAD curriculum at Monroe Community College (SUNY) to improve student engagement, enrollment, and retention in engineering technology programs. By incorporating humanoid robot CAD examples early in coursework, students connect foundational mechanical concepts such as joints, motion, and degrees of freedom (DOF) to visible, real-world systems. As many robotics and automation companies now design humanoid and highly articulated robotic systems, understanding how to model movable joints and DOF in CAD has become an increasingly important technician skill. Participants will explore how this approach supports first-year engagement, reduces intimidation barriers, and promotes persistence while keeping CAD coursework aligned with modern engineering technologies. Attendees will leave with adaptable project models and engagement-focused strategies applicable to early-sequence engineering technology courses.
Kay Rand Morgan, Assistant Professor, Mechanical Technology, Monroe Community College, Rochester, NY; Dean Laury, Dean, Monroe Community College, Rochester, NY; Linda Cornelious, Professor of Instructional Technology/Former Department Head, Mississippi State University, Rochester, NY
Expanding Semiconductor Education Beyond the Walls of the Cleanroom using Virtual Reality
The expansion of the semiconductor industry in the United States presents a once-in-a-generation growth opportunity and, at the same time, a significant challenge. Workforce shortfalls are projected to be between 67,000 and 100,000 by 2030 in the U.S. alone. The Cornell NanoScale Facility has created immersive and scalable virtual reality educational content that brings students directly into a world-class cleanroom research facility to learn face-to-face with our expert staff. Immersive 360-degree video with embedded content allows learners of all ages to explore career pathways in the chips industry. An online portal allows educators to monitor student progression, creating a learning platform that extends beyond geographical boundaries. We invite you to experience CNF-VR for yourself during this session. A limited number of VR headsets will be provided along with access instructions for laptops, cell phones, and tablets for everyone in attendance.
Thomas Pennell, Workforce Development Program Manager, Cornell NanoScale Facility, Ithaca, NY
New Spectroscopy Course Developing In-Demand Skills Through Theory and Hands-On Training
Spectroscopy is the backbone of modern analytical laboratories across pharmaceuticals, materials science, quality control, forensics, and manufacturing. Yet there is a critical shortage of trained technicians who can operate, maintain, and troubleshoot UV-Vis, IR, and Raman spectrometers. This session presents a comprehensive spectroscopy curriculum developed and piloted through the NSF-funded EdQuantum project and designed to prepare technicians for employment in this high-demand sector. We will cover an educational model that includes a technical textbook, online modules, and hands-on labs. The curriculum covers 11 competencies from fundamental principles through advanced techniques like ATR and SERS, emphasizing practical skills such as sample preparation, calibration, spectral interpretation, and data analysis. Attendees will experience hands-on demos with portable spectrometers, examine the textbook’s technician-focused pedagogical approach, and receive implementation resources.
Mo Hasanovic, Assistant Teaching Professor, EdQuantum (DUE 2515348): Hybrid Curriculum for Upskilling Photonics Technicians in Advanced Optics and Quantum Technologies, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY; Anca Sala, Professor, EdQuantum (DUE 2515348): Hybrid Curriculum for Upskilling Photonics Technicians in Advanced Optics and Quantum Technologies, Kettering University, Flint, MI
From Classroom to Command Center: Building a Cyber Range and Internship Pipeline
Community colleges face increasing pressure to prepare cybersecurity technicians with real-world skills aligned to employer needs. This session presents a practical approach for designing, implementing, and sustaining a simulated cyber range in a community college program. Based on an NSF ATE-funded project at Johnston Community College, the session outlines key steps for cyber range adoption, including infrastructure planning, curriculum integration, faculty preparation, and student engagement. The cyber range serves as a clinical-style learning environment where students respond to simulated ransomware, reconnaissance, and DDoS attacks. This hands-on experience provides work-equivalent learning aligned with industry certifications. Participants will learn how cyber range simulations improve workforce readiness, engagement, retention, and internship outcomes. Lessons learned, scalability, and transferability are emphasized so attendees leave with actionable strategies.
Ryan Bradshaw, Dean, Business and Digital Technology, Implementing a Simulated Cyber Range Training Environment to Prepare Cyber Technicians (DUE #2348707), Johnston Community College, Smithfield, NC; David Oliver, Instructor, Implementing a Simulated Cyber Range Training Environment to Prepare Cyber Technicians (DUE #2348707), Johnston Community College, Smithfield, NC; Daphne Lewis, Director of Institutional Grants, Johnston Community College, Smithfield, NC; Bob Hildenbrand, Cybersecurity Career Coach, Implementing a Simulated Cyber Range Training Environment to Prepare Cyber Technicians (DUE #2348707), Johnston Community College, Smithfield, NC; Brian Worley, Associate Vice-President, Advanced Manufacturing Training Facility, Implementing a Simulated Cyber Range Training Environment to Prepare Cyber Technicians (DUE #2348707), Johnston Community College, Smithfield, NC
Transforming the Biotechnology Training Experience With a Student-Centered Approach
This session explores a strategic curriculum redesign approach for a Biotechnology Training Program that reduces entry barriers, embeds general education skills, and incorporates authentic research and mentorship experiences to enhance student success in the STEM pathway. Participants will learn how lowering barriers such as rigid prerequisites can increase access and diversity, how integrating general education skills within biotech coursework strengthens workforce readiness, how faculty mentorship supports student retention, and how student research experiences boost student engagement in STEM training.
Jennifer Tront, Associate Professor, Community College of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
From Data to Action: Building Collaborative Capacity for STEM Workforce Grants
This session presents a collaborative, data-driven model developed through an NSF ATE Grant Development Conference to strengthen STEM workforce grant readiness at community colleges. Using survey data to identify systemic barriers—such as unclear budgeting processes, compliance gaps, and fragmented proposal tracking—the model applies CCPI-STEM modules to translate findings into actionable strategies. Participants will explore how structured collaboration among faculty, workforce leaders, and grants staff improves institutional capacity, industry engagement, and alignment with NSF ATE priorities. Emphasis is placed on practical tools, shared templates, and planning approaches that support technician education programs across disciplines. Attendees will leave with replicable strategies to enhance cross-institutional collaboration, strengthen competitive grant proposals, and advance STEM workforce development aligned with emerging industry needs.
Shalini Gogawale, Grants Administrator, Baton Rouge Community College, Baton Rouge, LA; Shane Kirby, Director, Advancement Partnerships, Columbus State Community College, Columbus, OH
Framework for Acquiring Advanced Manufacturing Cell Simulating Semiconductor Production
This presentation traces the development of a project from proposal submission to student engagement with an advanced manufacturing cell that simulates the full semiconductor production process. It will cover key stages including proposal preparation, faculty equipment evaluation visits, return-on-investment analysis, equipment selection and decision-making, and campus installation. The project is presented as a case study in building and implementing a comprehensive student laboratory—one of the first of its kind designed to support hands-on semiconductor manufacturing education.
Douglas Brauer, Dean, Engineering and Industry, Strengthening Building and Construction Technician Training with Alternative Energy Sources to Advance Sustainability, Florida State College, Jacksonville, FL; Yasameen Alkhayyat, Engineering Technology, Florida State College, Jacksonville, FL
Developing Student Troubleshooting Skills and Knowledge Through Online Simulations and Hybrid Learning
This session will focus on how NorthArk has implemented a comprehensive student learning strategy in six electrical/automation courses to develop troubleshooting skills and technical knowledge for students entering the industrial workplace. Virtual machines are used by students to obtain 24/7 remote access to proprietary software (PLC and Simulations) to experience faculty-developed simulations of the same circuits that the students will wire and troubleshoot in the hands-on lab. This accelerated learning strategy has increased learning effectiveness and efficiency. Simulations also have circuits with faults that students must troubleshoot with virtual test equipment. Students also develop knowledge through faculty-developed learning objects (lab exercises, PPT/PDF, and videos) housed in the Canvas LMS, also allowing 24/7 access. Online simulations and hands-on skill development prepare students for their individual skill assessments based on a Competency-based Learning Model.
Roger Hattaway, Electronics Technology Instructor, North Arkansas College, Harrison, AR; Jason Klipp, Industrial Technology Instructor, North Arkansas College, Harrison, AR
Case Study With Lessons Learned to Create an Approved Jointly Registered Technician Training Program
The Southern Tier of New York is in desperate need of optical technicians—individuals who work with scientists and engineers to test how materials interact with light. Corning Community College (CCC) has been working with local industry to prop-up an Optical Technology two-Year Associate Program. However, CCC lacks the high-level (expensive) equipment needed to teach the specialized courses required for an optical technology program. Monroe Community College (MCC) in Rochester, NY, has a nationally recognized Optical Systems Technology AAS Program that houses the high-level equipment that would complement CCC’s need. In this session, learn how CCC and MCC were able to collaborate to offer an approved, jointly registered Optical Technology AAS Degree Program by leveraging the strengths of each organization. Presenters will discuss the “peaches and pits” of the collaboration and offer “tips and tricks” for your institution to do the same.
Robert Koble, Professor of Biology and Science Department Chair, Optical Technology at Corning (OT@C). An Optical Technology A.A.S. Degree Program at SUNY Corning Community College, Corning, NY; Dr. Aliza Erner, Assistant Professor of Physics, Optical Technology at Corning (OT@C). An Optical Technology A.A.S. Degree Program at SUNY Corning Community College, Corning, NY
Impact of GenAI in the Classroom: Case Study from a Capstone Course
Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), which uses Large Language Models (LLMs), has existed for a few years and has significantly influenced higher education. Although educators understand what GenAI is, they find it challenging to implement it effectively in the classroom. While some disruptions have impacted student learning and assessment, they have also notably affected faculty teaching in STEM, business, and other disciplines. This session will examine the impact on curriculum development, assessment strategies, and teaching methods for a business course, including a case study from a business capstone course in the ABIT BAS program at UH Maui College. Session learning outcomes will include designing an adaptive curriculum, project-based assessments, and oral student presentations that showcase creativity in solving new and unique problems. This session will cover general topics of interest to faculty and include hands-on activities designed to engage a diverse audience.
Debasis Bhattacharya, Professor, 2300867, University of Hawaii Maui College, Kahului, HI
Making the Most of Your ATE Evaluation: From Compliance to Strategic Asset
Dr. Lauren McClain, Co-Owner and Principal Evaluator, Grantibly, Bowling Green, KY; Dr. Angelika Gulbis, Co-owner, Evaluation Consultant, Grantibly, Sun Prairie, WI
Using Large Language Models (LLMs) to Support a Flipped Introductory Course
Marcelo Guerra Hahn, Associate Professor, Lake Washington Institute of Technology, Kirkland, WA
Anytime, Anywhere DNA Sequencing and Analysis by Anyone: Oxford Nanopore MinION and DNA Subway 2.0
An individual DNA molecule disrupts an electrical potential as it passes through a microscopic nanopore embedded in an artificial membrane. This revolution in DNA sequencing has numerous applications, ranging from rapid whole genome sequencing to pharmaceutical quality control to pathogen monitoring in public water supplies. Learn about Oxford Nanopore’s miniature MinION device, which provides a simple and inexpensive means to bring DNA sequencing into the high school and college classroom. Under an MOU with Oxford Nanopore, the DNA Learning Center (DNALC) is popularizing nanopore technology for student and citizen research. The DNALC developed DNA Subway 2.0 as the first bioinformatics toolset to work seamlessly on a cell phone and, with MinION, to deliver DNA sequencing anytime, anywhere. See this system in action, analyzing personal genetic sequences produced by participants.
Dave Micklos, Executive Director, InnovATEBIO and DNA Subway 2.0, DNA Learning Center, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY; Anna Feitzinger, Assistant Director for Science, InnovATEBIO and DNA Subway 2.0, DNA Learning Center NYC at City Tech, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Brooklyn, NY
From Vision to Launch: Building AI Programs at Community Colleges Through Strategic Mentorship
The National Applied AI Consortium (NAAIC) developed a national mentorship model to help community colleges launch and sustain applied AI associate degrees and certificates aligned to workforce and technician education pathways. Designed to address common barriers such as limited faculty capacity, evolving labor market demand, and industry alignment, the program connects colleges with experienced faculty mentors and a structured implementation roadmap supporting curriculum development, employer engagement, faculty upskilling, and student recruitment. This session will examine results from the first two cohorts, representing 16 colleges nationwide. Using real-world examples, we will share how institutions embedded AI into existing technical programs, collaborated with industry partners, and navigated challenges including program approval and faculty readiness. The session will feature a brief overview of outcomes, an overview of NAAIC’s free resources, and audience Q&A.
Eduardo Salcedo, Assistant Professor, National Applied Artificial Intelligence Consortium, Miami Dade College, Doral, FL; Cynthia Pereda, Director, National Applied Artificial Intelligence Consortium, Miami Dade College, Doral, FL
Self-Assessment Ranking of Knowledge Level for a Discipline: Identifying Knowledge Gaps
A self-assessment based on the knowledge required for a discipline can provide a student with information on what they know and what they need to learn. It can help a working professional prepare to take a certification exam by helping them identify what they need to review before the exam. An unexpected outcome from multiple GIS self-assessment results is the identification of gaps in GIS knowledge that need to be covered by courses and review programs. This presentation will review how the competencies in the self-assessment were determined and how the results have helped identify what competencies should be emphasized in curriculum.
Ann Johnson, Associate Director, Geospatial Technology Consortium of Community Colleges, GTC3, Colorado Springs, CO
Rise of the Metaverse Architect: A Future-Ready Workforce Training Program
As industries rapidly adopt Metaverse Technologies, Digital Twins, Data, Control, and AI Predictive Maintenance, a new career path—Metaverse Architect—is emerging. This session explores how IOT, automation, and AI are transforming smart building management, industrial automation, and virtual collaboration. Participants will gain insight into Matterport, SIMLAB, KNX, and Crestron industrial control and decentralized networks to create interactive real-time digital twin environments. Attendees will leave with practical applications, industry insights, and a roadmap for integrating Metaverse technologies into education and industry.
Frank Gonzales, Metaverse Architect Instructor, CNM Ingenuity, Inc (Central New Mexico Community College), Albuquerque, NM; Jason Edington, Student, CNM Ingenuity, Inc (Central New Mexico Community College), Albuquerque, NM
Engineering the Agricultural Workforce: Robotics and Automation Technician Pathways
The Agricultural Robotics and Automation Technologies (ARAT) NSF ATE project prepares secondary students for high-demand agricultural technician careers by integrating robotics, automation, and advanced technologies into agricultural education. Built through collaboration among AgCentric, CASE 4 Learning, postsecondary faculty, and industry leaders, ARAT develops modular, field-tested units aligned to workforce needs and higher education pathways. Participants will explore how the modules are designed using CASE pedagogy, how AgCentric supports the implementation of professional development, and how industry credentials bridge secondary and postsecondary programs. This session highlights strategies for preparing students with robotic and agricultural competencies, strengthening partnerships with community colleges and equipment manufacturers, and addressing the national shortage of skilled agricultural technicians.
Carl Aakre, CASE 4 Learning Director, Agricultural Automation and Robotic Technologies, National Council for Agricultural Education, Indianapolis, IN; Keith Olander, Executive Director, Northern Agricultural Center of Excellence, Agricultural Automation and Robotic Technologies, AgCentric, Staples, MN
Hands-On Deployment of Open-Source CTFd Using Docker Containers
This hands-on session will introduce participants to hosting Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions using CTFd, an open-source CTF platform, and will feature a brief overview of how CTFs are used in education, workforce training, and outreach to develop practical cybersecurity skills such as problem solving, analysis, and teamwork. Participants will then install Docker and deploy CTFd live on their own laptops, following a step-by-step walkthrough that demonstrates how to launch a functional CTF instance, access the administrative interface, configure basic settings, and create a sample challenge suitable for instructional use. Common setup issues, classroom considerations, and environment safety practices will be discussed throughout the session. By the end of the presentation, attendees will have a working CTFd environment and the foundational knowledge needed to host their own Capture the Flag events for students, trainees, or community programs.
Eric Renegar, Professor, Implementing Game-Based Learning to Enhance Training for Cybersecurity Technicians and Recruit a Diverse Cybersecurity Workforce, Sinclair Community College, Centerville, OH; Kristine Christensen, Professor, Computer Information Systems, and Director, Faculty Development, Moraine Valley Community College, Palos Hills, IL; Kyle Jones, Professor, Sinclair Community College, Centerville, OH; Casey O’leary, Project Manager, Sinclair Community College, Centerville, OH
Building Technician Pathways: Recruitment and Industry Partnerships in Action
Manufacturing and technical programs nationwide face persistent challenges in awareness, enrollment, and meaningful employer engagement. This session shares how Lake Area Technical College leveraged an NSF ATE grant to address these barriers through structured outreach, measurable industry partnerships, and hands-on student engagement. Participants will explore proven strategies including Mini Maker STEM Camps, middle school classroom visits, dual credit promotion, and the development of high-performing industry partners through a Business and Industry Leadership Team (BILT) model. Year 2 results demonstrate increased student interest, expanded school district engagement, and growth in industry collaboration. The session concludes with a live Mini Maker demonstration featuring 3D pens, soldering, and a drone giveaway, illustrating how interactive recruitment experiences translate into stronger technician pipelines.
Brooks Jacobsen, Department Supervisor, Robotics, Electronics, Energy, Cultivating Career Pathways for Advanced Manufacturing Technicians, Lake Area Technical College, Watertown, SD
Attracting and Engaging Next Gen Talent: Student Perspectives on Career Exploration
Career exploration in technical fields is often designed with good intentions, yet students frequently experience confusion, mixed signals, or unspoken barriers along the way. This session centers on the voices and experiences of the DeRocco Fellows, women enrolled in postsecondary programs exploring careers across technology-enabled sectors. The Fellows will share candid reflections on what actually helped them navigate career exploration and job decision-making, and what made the process harder than expected. The Fellows will also share their unique perspectives as women pursuing careers in technical fields, examining how learning environments, program design, mentorship, and workplace culture influence engagement and retention. Intended to be an exchange of ideas, this session invites educators, employers, and workforce professionals to reflect on how their programs and practices are experienced by students and to identify practical ways to strengthen engagement.
Jacqui Mieksztyn, Co-Founder, DeRocco Fellows, Madison, WI; Eileen Pickett, DeRocco Fellows, Simpsonville, KY
Expanding Cybersecurity Pathways Through a New AP Cybersecurity and Credit Alignment
As demand for cybersecurity talent accelerates, secondary and postsecondary leaders must align coursework, credentials, and credit policies to build seamless pathways. This session introduces AP Cybersecurity, a new AP course designed to prepare students for entry-level cybersecurity study and careers while supporting credit for prior learning. Participants will explore the course framework, technical competencies, and assessment model and examine how institutions can evaluate and award credit aligned to existing cybersecurity, networking, or computer science programs. Presenters will share examples of higher education institutions that have implemented credit policies and discuss strategies for cross-sector collaboration among K-12, community colleges, universities, and industry partners. Attendees will leave with practical tools to evaluate alignment, initiate faculty conversations, and strengthen cybersecurity talent pipelines in their regions.
Zachary Machani Jr, Director, Credit and Placement, AP Career Kickstart, The College Board, New York, NY; Jessica Johnson, Director of Credit and Placement, The College Board, New York, NY
Unlocking Cyber Careers Across Disciplines with the ExploreCyber Toolkit
Students pursuing careers in cybersecurity know that cybersecurity touches all majors, but students in other disciplines may not know how cybersecurity relates to their field of study. This session will introduce you to ExploreCyber, a collection of practical tools and resources for guiding students toward cybersecurity careers. During the session, we will examine case studies highlighting how cyber connects to majors such as health care, manufacturing, criminal justice, and more. You will also learn about personality-based exploration tools—pathway-mapping tools that align with NICE and DoD Cyber Workforce Framework (DCWF)—and review structured worksheets. These resources were designed to be shared throughout your campus and implemented into classroom curriculum, academic advising sessions, and career center workshops. Leave this session with resources you can use and share among your colleagues from other disciplines to improve recruitment, engagement, and cyber career readiness.
Kristine Christensen, Professor, CIS/ Director, Faculty Development, Cybersecurity Career Awareness and Exploration Initiative, Moraine Valley Community College, Palos Hills, IL; Stephanie Wascher, Academic Chair/Professor, Computers and Information Systems, Rock Valley College, Rockford, IL
Students’ Online Assignment Submission and Success
Over 13,000 student grades were analyzed and the following questions were addressed: 1. We wanted to know if students who submit their assignments online in Canvas earlier in the semester do better overall in the course? 2. We also wanted to know if time spent in Canvas impacted their overall final grade? 3. Once we started thinking about the amount of data in Canvas, we started thinking about what other “nuggets” could be dug up from the data. This session will examine student assignment submission in online courses to see if procrastination directly impacted their grades. In the session, we will cover how the data was collected, how it was analyzed, and how it can be used to improve course delivery and construction.
Craig Tidwell, Professor/Program Manager, Seminole State College of Florida, Sanford, FL; Marwan Shaban, Professor/Program Manager, Seminole State College, Sanford, FL
Using LLMs with the Canvas API to Rapidly Build and Revise Courses
Faculty are increasingly experimenting with generative AI, but most workflows still require manual copy-and-paste or technical expertise. This session demonstrates how large language models (LLMs) can securely interact with the Canvas API to help faculty create, modify, and enhance course content rapidly, with little to no coding experience required. Participants will see practical examples of generating modules, assignments, quizzes, rubrics, and discussion prompts, then deploying those updates directly into Canvas through low-code, guided workflows. We will explore collaborative models where faculty refine AI-generated content while maintaining instructional quality, academic integrity, and data privacy. Attendees will leave with a practical roadmap for implementing AI-powered course development without requiring programming skills.
Jonnathan Resendiz, Assistant Professor, Artificial Intelligence Certification Enhancement Project (#2500623), Grand Rapids Community College, Grand Rapids, MI
Building the Bioenergy Workforce: Trends, Tools, and Career Pathways
This session explores bioenergy workforce needs in the Midwest and across the U.S., highlighting education levels and in-demand roles projected over the next five years. Attendees will gain insights into state and regional trends shaping the future of bioenergy careers. We will also introduce free case studies developed by U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratories that transform cutting-edge bioenergy research into workforce development toolkits. Designed for college classrooms, these resources help students build technical and professional skills, such as data analysis, modeling, and proposal creation, while allowing them to see themselves in bioenergy career pathways. College faculty can use these case studies to enrich the learning experience and inspire career exploration in the bioenergy sector.
Mike Kollasch, STEM Pathway Program Developer, Argonne National Lab Institutional Partnerships, Lemont, IL
J ATE Presents: Better Manuscripts, Proposals, and Annual Reports
Join the Journal of Advanced Technological Education (J ATE) in a session designed to help you level-up your manuscript construction, grant proposal writing, and annual report submissions. Learn the tools, tips, and tricks that authors, grant proposal teams, and grant leaders use to save time and produce the highest-quality work. If you want to save time and produce high-quality writing, this session is for you.
Peter Kazarinoff, Faculty, J ATE, Portland Community College, Portland, OR
Designing a Paperless Request Lifecycle Using Microsoft 365 and Enterprise Systems
This session presents a real-world case study of eliminating paper-based student and administrative processes through an integrated Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Using Microsoft Forms for intake, Power Automate for data movement, SharePoint for structured storage, and Power Apps as the employee-facing platform, requests are tracked from submission through completion without printing or emailing documents. Dynamic Forms replace legacy paper forms, while multi-step workflows route requests to the appropriate stakeholders. Depending on request type, completed documents are securely archived in ImageNow as the system of record. Throughout the process, automated notifications keep students, faculty, and staff informed. Participants will learn how intentional system design, governance, and workflow planning can create a transparent, auditable, and fully paperless process that is scalable and replicable across institutions.
Sandy Mujica, Chairperson, Miami Dade College, Doral, FL
Community Colleges as Versatile Partners in a Nationwide Consortium
This panel will share strategies and initiatives community colleges in multiple states have implemented to collaborate with four-year universities, industry, and each other to recruit, engage, and support students; connect them to industry; deliver curriculum; and provide access to cleanroom facilities.
Sophia Georgiakaki, Professor, Microelectronics and Nanomanufacturing Veterans Partnership, Tompkins Cortland Community College, Dryden, NY
From Classroom to Career: Certifying Additive Manufacturing/3D Printing Talent
As additive manufacturing continues to transform advanced manufacturing, community and technical colleges are being asked to prepare students with validated, workforce-ready skills. This session introduces a new national certification assessment in 3D Printing/Additive Manufacturing developed in partnership with AMTEC and NOCTI. Participants will learn how the assessment defines core competencies across design, materials, processes, safety, quality, and troubleshooting—independent of specific equipment—while aligning with industry expectations. We will discuss the development process, employer input, and how colleges can leverage the certification to strengthen programs, support Perkins accountability, and demonstrate measurable student outcomes. Attendees will leave with practical insight into implementation, reporting, and positioning the credential to enhance program credibility and graduate employability.
Anne Gielczyk, Executive Vice President, AMTEC Additive Manufacturing, NOCTI/Nocti Business Solutions, Big Rapids, MI; Jason Simon, Director, AMTEC Additive Manufacturing, AMTEC, Owensboro, KY; Eric Wooldridge, Professor and Director of the KCTCS Additive Manufacturing Center, Somerset Community College, Somerset, KY
Utilizing AI to Enhance the Job Task Analysis Process
This live demonstration will showcase how the Job Task Analysis AI Tool created by the EARTh Center can streamline and enhance the JTA process, enabling educators and industry professionals to identify key job roles, skills, and competencies with greater efficiency and precision. In today’s fast-paced world, companies are operating leaner than ever, making it increasingly difficult to secure industry professionals for multi-day DACUM/JTA sessions. By leveraging AI, we can address this challenge by gathering and analyzing data to build a strong framework, significantly reducing the time and commitment required from industry partners. The public-facing interface for this tool will be unveiled and tested by attendees in real-time!
Josh Webb, Associate Director, EARTh Center, Central Carolina Community College, Sanford, NC
Bridging Skills Gaps through Desktop Simulations
Learn about the immersive desktop-based simulations that the EARTh Center has available for educators. The session will highlight the HAZWOPER-related training modules and simulations created in conjunction with the National Partnership for Environmental Technology Education, as well as other Immersive Ed resources for educators in water technology. We will outline the processes of ideation, subject matter expert and instructor input, and iteration necessary for the success of these resources. We will explain their importance in the classroom for bridging and supplementing skills needed by technicians in the field.
Andrew McMahan, Executive Director, EARTh Center, Central Carolina Community College, Sanford, NC; Josh Webb, Associate Director, EARTh Center, Central Carolina Community College, Sanford, NC; Kirk Laflin, Executive Director, National Partnership for Environmental Technology Education, South Portland, ME
Rethinking VR: How WebGL Increases Scalability in 3D Printing Education
Virtual reality (VR) has long been promoted as the future of immersive learning. However, its high equipment costs, constant maintenance demands, and complex user management often limit its ability to scale in real-world classroom environments. Therefore, a more practical VR approach using WebGL and standard classroom computers was tested as an alternative. This session shares the results of the transition from headset-based VR to computer-screen VR training modules. The result was faster deployment, reduced integration burden on the teachers, and lower development overhead while still supporting immersive VR learning. Attendees will learn what worked, what didn’t work, and why WebGL-based on-screen VR proved to be a more effective solution for 3D printing instruction. Student experience feedback, easy-to-grade assignments, sample demonstrations, scalability factors, and the ideal balance between immersive and conventional coursework will be shared and discussed.
Eric Wooldridge, Director of KCTCS Additive Manufacturing Center, Low Cost VR – NSF Award # 2055722, Somerset Community College – Kentucky Community and Technical College System, Somerset, KY; Eldon Whitis, Additive Manufacturing Strategy and Operations Specialist, Low Cost VR – NSF Award # 2055722, Somerset Community College – KCTCS Additive Manufacturing Center, Somerset, KY
The ATE/ABET Convening: Exploring Synergies
In September 2025, a group of ATE PIs and representatives from ABET, an established international organization that accredits postsecondary STEM education programs through a peer-review process, came together to explore synergies between the two groups. Join this session to learn more about the convening, the synergies identified by attendees, and potential next steps for collaboration and to add your feedback and thoughts regarding alignments. A panel of ATE educators will also provide observations regarding ABET accreditation benefits and challenges for two-year colleges.
Linnea Fletcher, Principal Investigator, InnovATEBIO National Biotechnology Education Center, Austin Community College, Round Rock, TX; Mel Cossette, Executive Director and Principal Investigator, Restoration for All (R4All) NOAA Project, Edmonds College, Lynnwood, WA; Billie Copley, Center Director, Oaq Tree Consulting/MNT-EC, Conway, AR; Mary Slowinski, Associate Professor, Bellevue College, Bellevue, WA
Best Practices to Incorporate Artificial Intelligence Into CTE
Artificial intelligence is transforming every sector, and educators often face the challenge of keeping pace with rapid technological change while also maintaining expertise in their own fields—including advanced manufacturing, engineering, and other CTE disciplines. This session will equip you with practical strategies, best practices, and classroom-ready insights to help prepare the next generation of technicians for an AI-enabled workforce. Participants will explore a case study from the AMTEC Institute for Industry 4.0 Innovation (DUE 2350012), highlighting how AI-focused resources were integrated into national instructor training and how these tools can be adapted for your own programs. You will leave with actionable tools, updated knowledge, and proven approaches you can use immediately in your classroom.
Ryan Hall, Innovation and Artificial Intelligence Lead, AMTEC Institute for Industry 4.0 Innovation (DUE 2350012), Owensboro Community and Technical College, Owensboro, KY; Jason Simon, Director of AMTEC, AMTEC Institute for Industry 4.0 Innovation (DUE 2350012), Owensboro Community and Technical College/AMTEC, Owensboro, KY
AI Application in Shaping the Future of Engineering Education
AI is a powerful emerging tool. The changing trend in academics to the use of AI is a challenge for the academic community. Join the session to get an overview of use of AI in the various disciplines of engineering technology and related fields. The session focuses on the use of AI in the field of engineering. The session also gives information on the fair use of AI for the homework assignments. Let’s use AI for improving student engagement and efficiency.
Ramona Anand, Assistant Professor, Weld-Ed, Lorain County Community College, Elyria, OH
Before the Evaluation Plan: Readiness Is the Real Work
Technical education and workforce initiatives depend on evaluation to demonstrate impact, improve programs, and sustain cross-sector partnerships. Too often, evaluation is treated as a technical task rather than a practice shaped by institutional authority, incentives, timelines, and political realities. This session centers on evaluation readiness as the foundation of high-quality practice. Participants will examine how decision-making structures, funding commitments, capacity, and role clarity influence evaluation design and use. We explore the complementary responsibilities of faculty, administrators, evaluators, and community partners as well as the conditions required for productive collaboration. Through context mapping, a structured readiness scan, and focused action planning, participants will identify one concrete institutional shift to strengthen alignment with learners, communities, and workforce goals while advancing accountable, responsive evaluation.
Monique Liston, Chief Strategist, UBUNTU Research and Evaluation, Milwaukee, WI; JR Moller, PhD, Research and Evaluation Consultant, EvalGeek, Greensboro, NC; Sharon Dorcoo, PhD, Principal, TERSHA LLC, Madison, AL; Solomon Tention, EdD, Assistant Professor of Advanced Studies, Leadership and Policy, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD
Sharing What Matters: Audience-Centered Impact Communication
Sharing your impact means more than reporting what you did. It means telling a story that resonates with the right people in the right way. This session helps evaluators and project teams move beyond routine grant reporting to communicate outcomes that actually connect. We’ll explore how to identify your key audiences, pinpoint what matters most to each of them, and make intentional choices about how you frame and share your work. We’ll also address common communication challenges specific to technical education and walk through practical tools and strategies you can bring back to your team. Participants will leave with resources and strategies to support more intentional, audience-centered communication of their grant’s outcomes and impact.
Brianna Hooks Singletary, Senior Research Associate, EvaluATE, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI; Lyssa Wilson Becho, Principal Research Associate, EvaluATE, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI
Nano LLMs: Teaching With Tiny Titans
Large Language Models have transformed education, but cloud-based solutions raise concerns about student privacy, ongoing costs, and internet dependency. This presentation introduces an accessible alternative: Nano LLMs—highly capable modes that run entirely on local hardware and focus on a specific topic/subject. Participants will gain knowledge about different models available and its functionalities, such as Microsoft Phi and Meta Ollama. These models deliver subject-specific capabilities while running on modest local hardware—with zero ongoing costs and complete privacy protection. Presenters will demonstrate LLM deployment tools from a local laptop.
Rajiv Malkan, Professor, NITIC, Lone Star College – Montgomery, Conroe, TX; Kyle Jones, Assistant Dean of Technology, Grants, and External Partnerships and Professor, NITIC, Sinclair College, Dayton, OH
From National Collaboration to Local Action: Industry‑Integrated Models leveraging Hands-on Learning
This panel will explore how community and technical colleges can move beyond traditional advisory boards to create dynamic, industry-embedded learning ecosystems that strengthen student engagement, accelerate job readiness, and directly respond to regional economic growth in manufacturing. Participants will gain actionable strategies for structuring partnerships that translate into measurable experiential learning outcomes and workforce impact.
Elizabeth Hibner, MI-WPC Lead Program Manager, SME, Southfield, IL; Raymond James, Dean, Greenville Technical College, Greenville, SC; Reggie J. Poché, Interim Vice Chancellor for Strategic Partnerships and Engagement, Nunez Community College, Chalmette, LA
Electric Vehicle Consortia Partnerships
The National Electric Vehicle Technology Exchange (NEVTEX-Next, DUE # 2301095) is pleased to introduce the Society of Automotive Engineers – Industry Technologies Consortia (SAE-ITC) to the NSF-ATE community. We view SAE-ITC as a vital partner in developing the long-range industry standards necessary to strengthen and expand local programs. In this session, we will discuss our strategic alignment with SAE-ITC, which serves as the global authenticating body for the EVPRO+ Program. We will detail the six core components of the EVPRO+ framework and how SAE-ITC can support workforce development goals. Additionally, we will introduce the newly formed NEVTEX Consortia—operating under the SAE-ITC umbrella with seven specialized subcommittees—designed to lead the future growth of the electric vehicle workforce.
Ken Mays, PI-NEVTEX – Next, National Electric Vehicle Technology Exchange, Central Oregon Community College, Bend, OR; Rich DeMary, Director @ Probitas Authentication, SAE-ITC, Warrendale, PA
From Practice to Performance: A Structured AI Model for Teaching Interview Skills
Navigating the hiring process is often left to students after graduation or is only sparsely covered in academic programs. This is likely due to the difficulty and time-intensive nature of providing students with authentic, individualized interview practice. BTECH has leveraged AI to ensure that all students receive critical instruction and real-world practice before applying to jobs. This session demonstrates how BTECH integrated AI to strengthen interview readiness. Attendees will experience a series of Canvas modules that guide students from generating targeted interview questions to developing strong responses using the STAR method, and then practicing their responses in an AI-simulated interview. Rather than replacing student thinking, AI is positioned as a guided practice tool that builds confidence and communication skills. Attendees will leave with an adaptable model, including structured prompts and module design, to support workforce readiness across any program.
Mason Lefler, Associate Vice President for Educational Innovation, Distance-Enabled Industry-Led Data Analytics Technician Pathway (ILDAP), Bridgerland Technical College, Logan, UT; Tiffany Carter, Senior Instructional Designer for Development, Distance-Enabled Industry-Led Data Analytics Technician Pathway (ILDAP), Bridgerland Technical College, Logan, UT
Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure: Challenges, Opportunities, and Recommended Practices
This session will share the key takeaways from a recent publication by the CREATE Energy Center and the National Electric Vehicle Consortium. Industry standards for electric vehicle charging infrastructure will be presented, along with prevalent construction and installation practices. Case studies from several community and technical colleges will be shared to highlight common obstacles that are encountered. Recommended practices will be discussed that can help facilitate EV charger deployment, while also promoting the use of campus infrastructure to deliver student learning opportunities. The content of this session will be based in part on a recent publication in the Journal of Advanced Technological Education, https://micronanoeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2025/05/K.-Walz_Considerations-for-Colleges-Installing-EVS_DOI_Final_5-1-25.pdf.
Ken Walz, Director and Principal Investigator, CREATE Energy Center, Madison Technical College, Madison, WI; Kevin Cooper, Director and Principal Investigator, National Electric Vehicle Consortium, Indian River State College, Fort Pierce, FL
Ignite Your NSF ATE Journey: Funding Insights and Free Mentor Support
NSF ATE proposals can be challenging for two-year colleges to navigate. Understanding the expectations and specifics of this funding opportunity is vital for success. Celeste Carter, Former NSF ATE Lead Program Officer, will offer an overview of current funding opportunities, the reauthorization of the ATE Program by Congress, and the implications of PAPPG 24-1 and different executive orders. Pamela Silvers will present information about Mentor-Connect, which provides critical, no-cost support to prospective two-year college grantees. This support includes personalized mentoring, technical assistance, ATE-specific resources, and leadership development for STEM faculty. Mentor-Connect has helped 283 college teams (new to ATE recipients) achieve a 71 percent funding success rate.
Pamela Silvers, PI, Mentor-Connect (DUE2227301), Florence Darlington Technical College, Florence, NC; V. Celeste Carter, Ph.D, New America Fellow and former NSF Project Director, Alexandria, VA
Beyond Compliance: Cultivating Collaborative Partnerships with Evaluators
Program evaluation is often viewed as a compliance requirement rather than a strategic partnership for project success. For emerging and new principal investigators, understanding the role and value of an evaluator can be challenging. This session seeks to reframe that perspective through a panel discussion featuring experienced external evaluators who will demonstrate how evaluation can move beyond accountability to a collaborative partnership. Drawing on the panelists’ expertise, this interactive session will explore three critical insights: 1) how evaluators contribute expertise and experience in stakeholder engagement; 2) how evaluators strengthen implementation through continuous improvement—not just measurement; and 3) how evaluators serve as invested partners who share a PI’s commitment to meaningful outcomes. Participants will leave with greater clarity about the evaluator’s role and concrete approaches for cultivating a productive, supportive evaluation partnership.
Pamela Leggett-Robinson, Founder and CEO, Advancing Education in Electric Vehicle Technology, PLR Consulting, Inc., Hampton, GA; J.R. Moller, Research and Evaluation Consultant, EvalGeek, Greensboro, NC; Solomon Tention, Assistant Professor of Advanced Studies, Leadership and Policy, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD
Advanced Manufacturing and ESL: Analysis of Our Successes and Challenges During Rollout
Central Community College Plastics has completed the initial rollout of our 12-credit plastics certificate and our focus on recruiting and training second language learners. This session will reflect on successes, challenges, and the many lessons learned while training this first group of students. We will discuss recruiting strategies, attrition, challenges dealing with second language students’ often difficult schedules, and challenges training these folks, both in the classroom and the lab. Finally, we will discuss plans for a recently funded grant in our institution, NSF Project BUMP, which will take lessons learned from this project as it seeks to reach ESL students for training in mechatronics. We intend for our experiences to help inform other institutions interested in reaching out to their own second language populations.
Karl Anderson, Director, Plastics and Injection Molding, Injecting English Language Learners into Advanced Manufacturing, Central Community College, Columbus, NE; Daniel Davidchik, Associate Dean of Training and Development, Injection English Language Learners into Advanced Manufacturing, Central Community College, Columbus, NE; Craig Potthast, Plastics Trainer/Coordinator, Central Community College, Columbus, NE
Workplace Navigation Training: Preparing Students for Workplace Success
Workplace Navigation Training equips students with assessment tools and skills to strategically navigate any workplace to support their own goals and priorities in order to thrive in their chosen career field. Developed in collaboration between a community college and a technician employer, this training is being adapted for scaling and dissemination through asynchronous Canvas modules and is being piloted with over a dozen technical education programs. Participants will learn how the training enhances student work-based learning experiences and career success, and how they can pilot the training in their own program.
Karen Leung, Biotechnology Instructor and Internship Coordinator, Workplace Navigation to Support Student Success in Technical Careers, City College of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
Enhancing Cybersecurity Employability: Hands-on Experience in a Security Operations Center
Faced with their advisory committee’s feedback that graduates with an associate degree but no experience were unlikely to get a job directly in the cybersecurity field, San Jacinto College set out to provide hands-on experience for every student. San Jacinto faculty received an ATE grant to establish a Security Operations Center (SOC) in cooperation with the college’s IT department. The SOC became both an operational tool for the college and an opportunity for students to get real-world experience. Faculty prepared lab activities for each cybersecurity course that would bring students into the SOC, alongside college cybersecurity staff working with real-world tools and data. In this session we will share our journey, and attendees will get access to resources we created and the feedback we got from employers.
David Carpenter, Professor, Pipeline for Cybersecurity Careers Aligned to National Standards, San Jacinto College, Houston, TX
Credentialing Opportunities for Community College Programs
Having the ability for students to earn quality-reviewed credentials on their way to completion of the program will benefit students and employers by allowing them to put their skills to work in the industry while they complete their degree program The credentialling space is relatively new and can be a confusing environment: How can a community college program develop a strategy for credentialling students? Why should a credential become quality recognized? This interactive presentation will provide ideas, takeaways, and an example of how college program credentialling can be developed.
Melanie Diaz, Senior Manager, Professional Programs, ABET, Baltimore, MD; Dr. Donna Reese, Professor Emerita, ABET / Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS; Thomas Singer, Professor Emeritus, ABET / Sinclair College, Dayton, OH
Let’s Think About Project Sustainability
The session will examine strategies for sustaining NSF ATE initiatives beyond the grant funding lifecycle, with a focus on establishing long-term institution outcomes, industry partnerships, and scalability. The presentation will highlight effective practices in industry engagement, certification and credential alignment, equipment selection, and curriculum development that support technician education and workforce readiness.These efforts are grounded in more than a decade of collaborative success through SCC’s Independent Mechatronics Education Curriculum (iMEC) and the Independent Remote Engineering Automation Lab (iREAL) training platforms. Session participants will engage with the project team to examine successes, challenges, and lessons learned across multiple technical sectors, including advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and supply chain automation. Emphasis is placed on practical, replicable approaches aligned with NSF ATE priorities.
Doug Laven, Mechatronics Faculty, Building and Expanding the Manufacturing Workforce Through Collaboration, Outreach, and Partnerships, South Central College, North Mankato, MN; Dr. George Taylor, Dean of Business and Industry, Expanding the Technician Workforce Through Independent Mechatronics Education Curriculum (DUE 2400652), South Central College, North Mankato, MN
Partnering With Employers to Build Real-World, Industry-Aligned Cybersecurity Labs
To ensure that students graduate with up-to-date skills, it is imperative that educators collaborate with industry professionals to integrate realistic activities and assignments into the curriculum. Revising existing courses or introducing new courses can take a long time at some institutions, and industry partners do not always have the time or expertise to engage in this process. This session will focus on the design of industry-aligned labs that introduce real-world scenarios into curriculum. The presenters—including a cybersecurity employer, a student, and a faculty member—will demo a cybersecurity lab and showcase a second, cross-disciplinary lab model that can be valuable and adaptable for any department. Participants will leave with a practical plan to design industry-partnered labs that strengthen students’ job-ready skills.
Fathima James, Program Chair of Computer Information Technology, Career-Connected Cybersecurity Education for Low-Income and Minority Students, Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology, Roxbury, MA
An Overnight Success Journey: Building a Manufacturing Workforce at a Distance With Mechatronics
To address the growing need for automation technicians, educators from Central Community College (Nebraska) and South Central College (Minnesota) will share their experience developing and delivering a distance mechatronics course sequence that strengthens the workforce pipeline. This session introduces a distance-based model that builds partnerships with industry, high schools, and postsecondary institutions while expanding access to mechatronics, instrumentation, engineering, and other technical career paths. Attendees will learn best practices for offering hands-on technical courses remotely by engaging high school instructors and industry technicians as on-site facilitators. The session will also highlight strategies for scaling this model to additional colleges and outline opportunities to receive a free trainer and paid professional development in summer 2027.
Daniel Davidchik, Associate Dean of Community and Workforce Education; Principal Investigator – Project BUMP, Building Robust Mechatronics Pathways (Project BUMP), Central Community College, Columbus, NE; Doug Laven, Mechatronics Faculty, NSF iMEC 3.0 Principal Investigator, Mentor-Connect Mentor, Expanding the Technician Workforce through Independent Mechatronics Education Curriculum (DUE 2400652), South Central College, North Mankato, MN; Doug Pauley, Workforce Consultant, NSF Project BUMP Co-PI, NSF Expanding Participation in Advanced Manufacturing Co-PI, Central Community College, Columbus, NE
Emerging Technologies Workforce Readiness: Strategies from the ET Career Scholars Program
Postsecondary institutions continue to face challenges in attracting students to emerging technology fields. In its second year, the Engineering Technology Career Scholars Program pre-apprenticeship program provides new data illustrating how expanded student supports became essential to participant success. This session will share updated outcomes from two cohorts, including refinements to recruitment, application processes, and academic and wraparound supports. With the first cohort now working in the field for about six months and serving as peer mentors to new scholars, the program offers a growing model for workforce readiness in data center operations and semiconductor manufacturing. Attendees will leave with insights and actionable strategies to adapt this approach within their own communities.
Ti’Era Worsley, STEM Education Coordinator, Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale, VA; Chris Russell, IET Project Manager, Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale, VA; Josh Labrie, Director NOVA SySTEMic, Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale, VA
3 Modalities, 1 Course: Designing and Scaling a Sustainable HyFlex (Hybrid-Flexible Learning) Model
HyFlex (hybrid-flexible learning) allows students to choose how they attend each class session—in person, online live, or asynchronously. While often described as flexible, sustainable implementation requires intentional design, faculty preparation, and aligned infrastructure. In this session, attendees will see how an NSF Advanced Technological Education (ATE) initiative supported the redesign and scaling of a three-pathway HyFlex model in Cybersecurity and Help Desk programs while maintaining instructional rigor and consistency. Participants will examine the systems that support the modality, including standardized Canvas course design, a structured faculty training course, classroom technology configurations, and engagement strategies that work across all formats. Attendees will leave with practical implementation strategies, onboarding examples, and technology insights that can be adapted at their own institutions.
Kayla Hawley, Assistant Professor of Business and Information Systems, Transforming IT Support and Cybersecurity Credential-Attainment Through HyFlex (Hyper‐Flexible) Educational Offerings in Western Wyoming, Western Wyoming Community College, Rock Springs, WY
Resistance Isn’t Futile Until AI Makes It Useful: AI in a Python Coding Class Journey
At Springfield Technical Community College, the Python coding course faculty grappled with using Artificial Intelligence on assignments and making sure student work was authentic. The facts are clear-cut: AI is here to stay and only getting better. The presenters will share their AI odyssey in a Python coding class, moving from fear and concern, to devising prevention counter measure strategies, to ultimately embracing this powerful tool. Attendees will hear perspectives from faculty, students, and a STEM dean. The session will also feature assignment examples, video testimonials, and sharing of experiences.
Brian Candido, Professor and Department Chair of Computer Technologies, Springfield Technical Community College, Springfield, MA; Lara Sharp, Dean of Engineering, Technology and Advanced Manufacturing, Valencia College, Orlando, FL
Community College S-STEM Network Research and S-STEM Resources for ATE Projects
The Community College S-STEM Network (CCSN) is an NSF Scholarships in STEM (S-STEM) Research Hub. CCSN connects and supports researchers and practitioners in conducting and translating research on how academically talented, low-income community college students navigate STEM pathways into evidence-based practices, programs, and policies. Led by CCSN leaders who are long-time ATE PIs, this session highlights CCSN research on student decision making, program structures, and institutional factors that influence enrollment, retention, and transfer among community college students. Presenters will explain the purpose of the S STEM Hubs and how CCSN’s national surveys, case studies, and systematic reviews inform evidence-based practices and more equitable student outcomes. The session will showcase how ATE grantees can leverage CCSN resources and proposal-writing support to develop competitive S-STEM projects that provide scholarships and support directly benefiting ATE students.
Will Tyson, Professor of Sociology, Micro Nano Technology Education Center, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL; Michelle Van Noy, Director and Associate Research Professor, Education and Employment Research Center (EERC), The Hidden Innovation Infrastructure: Understanding the Economic Development Role of Technician Education in the Changing Future of Work, Rutgers University, Piscataway, MJ; Maria Luz Espino, Assistant Professor, Tarleton State, Fort Worth, TX
Boomers to Gen Alpha: Strategies for Managing Multiple Generations in the Classroom
Community college classrooms are increasingly an eclectic collection of students from a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and experiences. CTE programs must provide pathways, curricula, and instruction techniques that simultaneously meet the needs of students at open-enrollment institutions, including high school dual-credit students and recent graduates, incumbent workers, career-switchers, and information seekers. This session is based on recent research on inter-generational teaching/learning and first-hand classroom experiences.
Marci Gale, Associate Professor of Mechatronics and Program Head, Improving Advanced Manufacturing Technician Education Using Industry Partnerships, Central Virginia Community College, Lyncburg, VA
Making ATE Materials Available to LMS Users via ATE Central's STEMLink Service
STEMLink is a service from ATE Central that enables seamless inclusion of ATE-created materials into courses in Learning Management Systems across the country. After an LMS administrator performs a brief one-time setup process, all instructors at their institution will be able to browse through ATE-created resources and include them in classes they are teaching. In addition to disseminating their work via STEMLink, ATE grantees can also create curated sets of related resources, to be selected from or used together in the classroom, and potentially receive data on the use of their materials, that they can then share with their stakeholders to document impact. This session will provide an interactive demonstration of STEMLink, showing how instructors can include ATE content in a course, and how ATE grantees can use STEMLink to create and offer curated collections of materials.
Corey Halpin, Software Engineer, ATE Central, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI
The Open Source Resume: Helping CS Students Prove They're Hire-Ready
CS graduates are struggling to get hired. AI tools now handle much of the work traditionally assigned to entry-level developers, and employers expect more than ever from new hires. Yet most undergraduates graduate without internship experience, and the traits employers want most, such as initiative, problem solving, and curiosity, are rarely developed through conventional coursework. This session presents findings from a peer-reviewed study of 20 US hiring managers and 650 undergraduates. We identified the seven traits employers prioritize most for entry-level hires and documented exactly how students can demonstrate those traits through open source contributions. Attendees will leave with a concrete framework for connecting open source participation to employer hiring criteria, along with practical tools for communicating that connection to students.
Tyler Menezes, CEO, CodeDay, Seattle, WA
Leveraging BILT to Bring Industry Trends to the Classroom
Community colleges must respond rapidly to evolving industry demands while maintaining academic rigor and access. This session highlights how the Business and Industry Leadership Team (BILT) model serves as a structured mechanism for identifying emerging workforce trends and translating them into actionable classroom practices. Rather than relying on traditional advisory input, BILT prioritizes future-focused knowledge, skills, and abilities that inform curriculum design, applied learning experiences, and authentic assessment. Participants will explore strategies for embedding industry-validated competencies into coursework, activating employer partnerships in instruction, and creating agile, workforce-aligned pathways that prepare students for immediate impact in high-demand technical fields.
Sheela Vemu, Associate Professor of Biology, Building Pathways to Careers in the Water Sector (DUE 1838419), Waubonsee Community College, Sugar Grove, IL; Hope Cotner, President and CEO, The Building Pathways to Innovation (PTI) Through Strategic Employer Engagement (DUE 2039395), Center for Occupational Research and Development, Waco, TX
Industry to Instructor: A Practical Framework for Workforce Faculty
Many workforce programs rely on faculty hired directly from industry—great for technical expertise, but often overwhelming for new instructors who’ve never been trained to teach. This session provides practical tools for supporting industry experts as they transition into effective educators. Participants will explore a simple framework for course design built around content, engagement, and assessment, with examples drawn from a faculty workshop we developed and implemented last year. Attendees will experience a short hands-on activity they can reuse with new faculty: aligning real-world job tasks to student learning outcomes and authentic assessments. The session will also address common challenges practitioners face (time management, student engagement, assessment design, teaching in online/hyflex modalities) and share strategies that departments can implement immediately. Participants will leave with a ready-to-use mini toolkit for mentoring and supporting new workforce faculty.
Ginger Dennis, Department Chair, Business and Information Technology, Reducing Barriers to Information Technology Technician Education, Kilgore College, Kilgore, TX; Danny Darden, Associate Professor, Computer Information Technology, Reducing Barriers to Information Technology Technician Education, Kilgore College, Kilgore, TX; Karl Riley, Assistant Professor, Computer Information Technology, Kilgore College, Kilgore, TX
BioSuite Virtual: A Mixed-Reality Approach to Biomanufacturing Training
As education and workforce programs respond to growing demand for skilled biomanufacturing technicians, innovative training tools are essential. BioSuite Virtual is a mixed-reality training platform that simulates bioreactor and fermentation processes, enabling students to prepare, scale, and monitor a virtual biomanufacturing workflow using immersive headset technology. This approach provides educators with a cost-effective means to introduce core bioprocessing concepts and practices without expensive laboratory equipment. This presentation will highlight strategies for integrating BioSuite Virtual into undergraduate biomanufacturing curricula, including course alignment, implementation models, and assessment of student learning outcomes. Additionally, the Bioscience Core Skills Institute will describe the development and deployment of a complementary microcredential designed to formally recognize competency in virtual bioprocess operations and support workforce readiness.
Margaret Bryans, Biotechnology Professor, InnovATEBIO Biomanufacturing Lead, InnovATEBIO, Montgomery County Community College, Blue Bell, PA; James Hewlett, Professor, co-PI, InnovATEBIO, Finger Lakes Community College, Canandaigua, NY; Jared DeCoste, CEO, Prism Immersive, Austin, TX; Dan Beaupre, Prism Immersive, Austin, TX; Angela Consani, co-Founder and CEO, Bioscience Core Skills Institute (BCSI), Olathe, KS
Strengthening Industry Connections Through Alumni Engagement
In this session we will explore strategies for community college technical training programs to engage with their alumni and build a vibrant alumni network that strengthens industry connections while supporting student retention, recruitment, and career placement. Three colleges in California, Texas, and North Carolina have developed and tested a series of practical approaches to enhance alumni engagement and inspire students. Participants will gain access to guidelines that have been developed by the three colleges, including simple activities and templates to support alumni engagement.
Golnar Afshar, Adjunct Faculty, Increasing Student Retention and Recruitment Through Alumni Programs, Speed Networking, and Industry Engagement, City College of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Julie Griffin, BioBlend Career Coach, Increasing Student Retention and Recruitment Through Alumni Programs, Speed Networking, and Industry Engagement, Johnston Community College, Smithfield, NC
BioSCOPE: Professional Skills and Industry Roles Through Student-Led Manufacturing Projects
BioSCOPE (Bioscience Supply Chain Operations Projects for Education) uses a project-based approach to introduce students to industry roles and the professional skills today’s biotech workforce demands. To support adoption, the project team provides faculty professional development and BioSCOPE 101, a “manual” hosted on an LMS with slides, SOPs, and batch record templates, giving faculty resources needed to bring the project into their classroom. In these student-led projects, students manufacture educational products such as buffers, agar plates, and plasmids using batch records, while taking on roles as project managers, materials managers, and quality managers. Students embed industry workflows, professional communication, and quality systems into every step, meeting production timelines, managing resources, troubleshooting defects, and ensuring product quality. This session shares our model, examples, and outcomes and how educators can adopt BioSCOPE into their own programs.
Ying-Tsu Loh, Executive Director, Expanding Hands-On Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Experience for Diverse Student Populations, BABEC, Burlingame, CA; Emily Quach, Faculty, Expanding Hands-On Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Experience for Diverse Student Populations, Laney College, Oakland, CA
Technician Career Pathways Panel: Advanced Manufacturing
The Manufacturing USA institutes connect people, ideas, and technology by accelerating the development and adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies. Spanning seventeen technology areas, each institute works to train students and workers on technology, entrepreneurship, and career pathways. Join workforce development leaders from across the network as we outline technician career pathways across STEM and have a panel discussion about future occupations and skills needed through 2031. You’ll be able to hear about curriculum, new programs, and opportunities you might need for technician and bachelor careers. Come find out more about careers in robotics, biomanufacturing, cybersecurity, materials, textiles, and more.
Brad Conrad, Education and Workforce Development Manager, NIST – Office of Advanced Manufacturing, Gaithersburg, MD; Lisa Masciantonio, Executive Workforce and Strategy Leader, Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing, Gibsonia, PA; Hunter Brown, Associate Program Manager, BioMADE, St. Paul, MN; Robin Hammond, Chief Workforce Development Officer, EPIXC, Tempe, AZ; Rose Todd, Chief Operating Officer, CyManII (Cybersecurity Manufacturing Innovation Institute), San Antonio, TX
Designing Unique Cybersecurity Programs Aligned to Specific Regional Workforce Needs
Community colleges play a critical role in closing the cybersecurity workforce gap—but no two regions share the same security needs. From healthcare and finance to manufacturing and small business, workforce demand varies widely. A one-size-fits-all program can leave graduates misaligned with local hiring needs and competing with similar programs at nearby colleges. This session explores how to design a cybersecurity program of study around regional labor data, employer input, and sector-specific risks. Participants will learn strategies for needs assessments, advisory engagement, curriculum mapping, and differentiated pathways. Case studies developed through mentoring with MentorLinks and FORCCE-ATE highlight practical models, lessons learned, and outcomes. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to build regionally responsive programs that strengthen employer partnerships and improve student job placement.
Davina Pruitt-Mentle, NIST NICE Lead for Academic Engagement, MentorLinks and FORCCE-ATE, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Clarksville, MD; Brendan Shea, Philosophy and Computer Science Faculty, MentorLinks, Rochester Community and Technical College, Rochester, MN; Ren Olive, Grants Development Coordinator, Rochester Community and Technical College, Rochester, MN; Joel D. Offenberg, Department Head for Computer Science and Cyber Technology, FORCCE-ATE, Howard Community College, Columbia, MD; Chola Chhetri, Professor, Department of Information and Engineering Technologies, FORCCE-ATE, Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), Reston, VA
Building the Semiconductor Workforce: Experiential Learning, Faculty Workshops, and Student Bootcamps
A panel-based presentation followed by Q&A will review effective strategies, best practices, and key learning outcomes for immersion of community college students and faculty with semiconductor industry professionals in advanced semiconductor fabrication facilities. The panel will include workforce development leaders from NY Creates and community college faculty from Madison Area Technical College and Columbus State Community College presenting outcomes of immersive, experiential learning opportunities for two-year community college students through months-long internships, structured short-duration bootcamp programs, and outcomes of dedicated faculty technical workshops with industry professionals at NY Creates’ 300 mm Si wafer fabrication facility. The student and faculty learning outcomes from these immersive semiconductor fab experiences will also be discussed in terms of aligning two-year curriculum and career development pathways with the semiconductor industry needs.
Andrada Niculae, Experiential Learning Coordinator, EASEL, NY Creates, Albany, NY; Grant Emmel, Faculty, EASEL, Madison Area Technical College, Madison, WI; Michell Ward, Senior Director of Learning Innovation and Strategic Partnerships, Columbus State Community College, Columbus, OH; Simon Corrales-Builes, Student, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY
Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Activities: Bringing Industry to the Classroom
In early 2026 there were over 400,000 U.S. manufacturing jobs open, and manufacturers consistently cite the lack of a skilled workforce as one of the biggest challenges to advanced manufacturing initiatives. In this session, Manufacturing USA Institutes will showcase programs aimed at supporting educators and engaging students in tomorrow’s cutting-edge occupations. Experience first-hand potential collaborations and programs established by the Manufacturing USA network. The session will include activities and career information from America Makes focused on 3D-printing (additive) and IACMI (Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation) focused on materials processing, such CNC machining.
Brad Conrad, Education and Workforce Development Manager, NIST – Manufacturing USA, Gaithersburg, MD; Edward Herderick, Director of Education and Workforce Development (EWD), America Makes, the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Institute, Youngstown, OH; Shelby Bledsoe, Program Operations Coordinator, IACMI – The Composites Institute, Oak Ridge, TN
Building High-Impact Biotechnology CTE Pathways: From Classroom Labs to Industry Credentials
Biotechnology is one of the fastest-growing workforce sectors, spanning healthcare, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and energy. Yet many districts struggle with how to launch or scale high-quality biotechnology programs that align to industry needs, Perkins V requirements, and postsecondary pathways. This interactive session introduces a flexible Biotechnology Curriculum and Program Framework designed for grades 9–12 CTE implementation. Participants will explore multiple entry models—from embedding biotech into existing science courses to building full CTE pathways—while examining industry-recognized credentials such as BACE, OSHA-10, and stackable microcredentials. Through guided design activities, attendees will begin mapping a biotechnology program aligned to their local workforce, facilities, and funding realities. Participants will leave with practical tools, implementation strategies, and a scalable roadmap to bring high-impact biotechnology education to their schools.
Poornima Rao, Product Manager, Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc., Hercules, CA
Field Intelligence for New Grantees: AI-Assisted Research Discovery Across Academic and Open Web
Systematic field research is standard at research universities, where faculty have librarians, graduate students, and database subscriptions. Faculty at two-year institutions with full teaching loads have none of that, yet NSF ATE grantees are expected to demonstrate the same depth of field awareness. This session demonstrates a modular discovery pipeline that simultaneously aggregates academic sources (OpenAlex, ERIC, ATE Central, NSF-PAR), news feeds, blogs, and web-scrapable content, and then applies text embeddings and clustering to surface thematic patterns across all source types at once, finding connections sequential database searches miss. The output is a persistent, queryable corpus that grows throughout the life of a project rather than one-off literature reviews. Attendees see a live demonstration: a real ATE topic area, from a standing start to a structured cross-source corpus. No programming experience is required.
David Presley, XR Lab Administrator, RECITE, Motlow State Community College, Tullahoma, TN
Beyond the Baseline: Pioneering Accessible Innovation Under Title II
This session will focus on the efforts the Resource Collaborative for Immersive Technologies (RECITE) has undertaken to ensure compliance with the updated Title II ADA requirements in areas such as website accessibility, accessible data collection (through accessible surveys and reports), and universally designed professional development for future technicians. With the pracitcal tips and resources shared during this session, ATE staff will have a good start in meeting their Title II obligations, reducing legal liability, and, even more importantly, creating programs that allow every person to pursue educational and professional opportunities that enhance competitiveness by increasing the talent pool for ATE.
Luis Perez, Senior Director of Disability and Accessibility, RECITE and KonnectXR, CAST, Saint Petersburg, FL
AI Upskilling Needs of Manufacturing Organizations and How Higher Ed Institutions Can Help
This session will present national sentiments of manufacturers across sectors on levels of AI adoption, current use of various smart technologies, stated workforce development needs, and their expectations of how higher education institutions can support manufacturers from a micro credentialing and upskilling standpoint. The presenters will discuss research findings, share success stories, and provide clear pointers for organizations and institutions on how to work together and access various resources to address the skills gaps. It is clear that manufacturing firms are no longer just making things; they are becoming technology companies. To succeed, they must invest in both technology and people concurrently. The findings from the study underscore the urgency for higher education institutions to collaborate on pathways and processes to hasten the narrowing of the skills gaps.
Suj Chandrasekhar, President, BILT Team Chair, NCNGM, Strategic Insights Inc, Washington, DC; Ann Beheler, Industry Engagement Director, NCNGM, Farmington, CT; Karen Wosczyna-Birch, Executive Director and Principal Investigator, NCNGM, Farmington, CT
Bridging the Gap: A Group Discussion on High School Recruitment
Recruiting high school students into certificated technical workforce pathways remains a challenge for many programs. This session highlights lessons learned from high school and community college partnerships aimed at increasing enrollment. Participants will explore adaptable outreach tools and effective messaging strategies they can implement in their own programs.
Michael Fuller, Pathways Lead, InnovATEBIO, BABEC, Burlingame, CA; Ying-Tsu Loh, Executive Director, BABEC, Burlingame, CA
Advanced Manufacturing Technology Workforce Training: Engaging Industry for Current and Future Needs
The presentation shares best practice and case study examples of hourly plant floor workers learning practical skills in modern manufacturing technologies, automation systems, and foundational AI concepts. Proven workforce development efforts will be shown, along with an introduction to how continuous improvement continues to drive measurable training completion. The session emphasizes hands-on relevance, safety, and confidence-building so workers can effectively interact with emerging technologies and contribute to continuous improvement on the production floor.
Andrew Pokelwaldt, Director of Education and Workforce, IACMI – The Composites Institute (Workforce Programs ACE, METAL), IACMI (Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation) Workforce, Innocrate, Metals, ACE, University of TN at Knoxville, Knoxville, TN
Tips, Techniques, and Challenges for Implementing AI Programs
This session will feature a panel that will focus on practical tips, techniques, and challenges for helping colleges implement and maintain currency for AI credentials within community colleges. Topics will include how to determine the best predictions of the knowledge, skills, and abilities that employers believe they will want entry-level workers to possess. The Business and Industry Leadership Team model will be highlighted as foundational for ensuring employer commitment to guiding each college on emerging programs such as AI. Additionally, the panel will address how to best recruit busy employers to help with program development as well as how to maintain currency in a program changing as fast as AI. Challenges and solutions encountered during implementation will also be discussed.
Jeremy Adams, Director Business IT Talent Solutions, Enhancing Artificial Intelligence Skills for Technicians to Thrive in the Digital Workforce, Columbus State Community College, Columbus, OH; Ann Beheler, Director of Innovation, Pathways to Innovation, CORD, Waco, TX
GRIPping Industry Engagement: BILT, CRM Strategy, and Building Advanced Manufacturing Partnerships
Many colleges struggle to maintain consistent, meaningful employer engagement—resulting in unclear expectations, inconsistent advisory participation, and limited actionable feedback for improving advanced manufacturing programs. Sparked by an NSF grant aimed at improving employer engagement around emerging technologies, this session brings together representatives from five institutions to share practical strategies for addressing these challenges. Presenters will demonstrate effective communication workflows, CRM-supported employer tracking, and BILT-aligned practices that make industry input more specific and useful. Attendees will leave with adaptable tools and approaches they can implement immediately to strengthen employer participation and improve emerging technology program alignment with workforce needs.
Michelé Smith, Ph.D., Vice President of Workforce Solutions and Strategic Alliances, Generating Regional Innovative Partnerships (GRIP) via the Enabling Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity (EPIIC) Grant, Harper College, Palatine, IL
Digital-First Colleges: Rapid CE-to-Credit Pathways in 90 Days
Community colleges face increasing pressure to respond to labor market demand faster than traditional credit program approval cycles allow. This session presents a digital-first, continuing education-first model that enables institutions to pilot high-demand workforce programs in under 90 days and intentionally align them to credit pathways. Participants will explore modular curriculum design, competency mapping, and employer-validated outcomes that allow colleges to test programs in noncredit environments while building clear articulation into certificates, associate degrees, and apprenticeships. The session also addresses governance alignment, faculty engagement, quality assurance, and transcripted credit options that preserve academic integrity while increasing institutional agility. Attendees will leave with a replicable framework for transitioning from a credit-first mindset to a scalable CE-to-credit ecosystem that accelerates technician preparation and workforce impact.
Kimberly Lea, District Dean, Workforce and Industry, Palm Beach State College, Lake Worth, FL
Developing and Updating Industry-Responsive AI Programs Using the BILT Model and New AI Tools
The Business and Industry Leadership Team Model (BILT) is widely used for promoting high employer engagement for existing and new technical programs. This session will focus on how to use new AI tools and other BILT-related tools to streamline creation of an up-to-date AI program and how to keep it current. Panelists that have used the BILT model to create AI programs will share their experiences and the new tools that help automate the development of emerging programs and keep them up to date.
Ann Beheler, Director of Innovation, Pathways to Innovation, CORD, Waco, TX; Hope Cotner, President and CEO, Pathways to Innovation, CORD, Waco, TX
Industry Validated Technical Skills in Biomanufacturing
A growing bioeconomy will need an increase in the pool of skilled technical workers for biopharmaceutical, bioindustrial, and biofabrication roles. Making it easier for potential workers to fill these occupations is critical to accessing existing talent and growing the workforce pipeline. One challenge in these efforts is properly identifying and standardizing the essential skills required for biomanufacturing careers. Recently, NIST developed the Manufacturing USA Advanced Manufacturing Occupation and Competency Framework to address this challenge in advanced manufacturing. In this session, we build on this framework to reveal data on (1) entry-level positions in biomanufacturing fields; (2) foundational, essential, and specialized biomanufacturing skills; and (3) core competency sets for biomanufacturing technical roles. This standardized data can be used as a framework for industry-validated curriculum development in biomanufacturing.
Joseph Long, Advanced Manufacturing Strategy Fellow, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD
Growing from ChatGPT to Autonomous Agents: Reimagining Teaching and Learning
Higher education is moving beyond tools like ChatGPT toward autonomous AI agents, multimodal systems, and adaptive learning platforms that may fundamentally reshape academic work. This session explores the shift from reactive text generation to proactive, task-executing AI capable of automating workflows, generating course assets, supporting research, and delivering real-time, personalized student feedback. We will examine multimodal AI, intelligent tutoring systems, AI teaching assistants, and emerging agentic platforms embedded within LMS environments. Strategic, pedagogical, and governance implications will be addressed, along with the competencies institutions must develop as AI becomes infrastructural rather than optional. The question is no longer whether AI belongs in higher education but how institutions will redesign themselves around it.
John Jagtiani, Professor of Computer Science, National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM), CT State Community College, Winsted, CT
From Content Expert to Teaching Expert: Scaling Evidence-Based Instruction in CTE
As workforce programs expand and diversify, instructors who are content experts often lack systematic preparation in evidence-based teaching practices. This session demonstrates how TeachingHOW2s tools can accelerate instructional quality and student outcomes in career and technical education (CTE) by providing scalable, on-demand professional development anchored in evidence-based teaching (EBT). Participants will learn how step-by-step visual guides and collaborative coaching features help instructors translate pedagogical theory into classroom practice; enhance active learning and engagement; and build consistency across modalities and faculty experience levels. Session content addresses how institutions can prepare CTE instructors to improve learning outcomes, reduce barriers to adoption of high-impact teaching strategies, and embed continuous improvement mechanisms into faculty development systems. Attendees will leave with actionable frameworks and resources for building teaching.
Dr. Andrew Lieb, Collegewide Chair, CTE: Business and Applied Technology, Eastern Florida State College, Cocoa, FL; Dr. Mildred Coyne, CEO, Coyne Workforce Solutions, Cocoa, FL
An Integrated Statewide BILT for Bioscience Workforce Development in California
The BILT (Business and Industry Leadership Team) model for industry advisories enhances employer engagement with college career education programs by creating strong, lasting employer/ educator partnerships. BILTs leverage employer sector knowledge and faculty teaching expertise to ensure curricula meet industry needs and students are prepared for the workforce. With biotechnology/biomanufacturing programs at nearly 40 of the 116 community colleges in California, there’s a need to capture the most current knowledge, skills, and abilities required for entry-level technicians, and update curriculum. A state BILT integrated with college program advisories can potentially enhance employer/educator, employer/employer, and educator/educator partnerships across the state, and identify industry trends and needs across bioscience and its sub-sectors at local, regional, and state levels to provide consistent workforce readiness training across the state that addresses current employer needs.
Terri Quenzer, Executive Director, Bioscience WFD Hub, Building Strategic Faculty-Industry Engagement to Advance Bioscience Workforce Development (DUE #2500548), MiraCosta College, Oceanside, CA; Hope Cotner, President and CEO, Building Strategic Faculty-Industry Engagement to Advance Bioscience Workforce Development (DUE #2500548), CORD, Waco, TX; Ann Beheler, Director of Innovation, CORD, Waco, TX
Recruitment Diagnostics: Analyzing STEM Enrollment Challenges Through a Systems Lens
Many STEM programs invest heavily in recruitment yet continue to see variability in enrollment results. The issue is rarely effort—it’s misalignment. Recruitment plans often include a medley of tactics rather than strategic responses that take into account the interacting systems that shape learner decisions. This session presents a systems-based recruitment diagnostic grounded in ecological systems thinking. Participants will observe and engage in a live analysis of real program scenarios, learning how learner motivations, institutional structures, pathways, partnerships, and workforce signals combine to produce recruitment outcomes. Building on last year’s conversation and subsequent field application, the session demonstrates how to interpret recruitment challenges before designing solutions. Attendees leave with a practical mental model for diagnosing why recruitment strategies succeed or fail and guidance for applying the approach in their own context.
Lana Rucks, President and CEO, The Rucks Group LLC, Dayton, OH; Brianna Crumly-Goodwin, M.S., Ph.D. Candidate, Research and Evaluation Association, The Rucks Group LLC, Dayton, OH
Telling the ATE Story on the Hill: Federal Legislative Engagement for College Faculty
Two-year college faculty and ATE PIs are encouraged to meet with congressional offices to show how their programs prepare skilled technicians and support local employers and economies. This session provides a practical, step-by-step roadmap for initiating and holding those conversations, with examples drawn from two-year college settings and both district and DC offices. Presenters will draw on experience as an ATE PI, a former congressional intern, an NSF ATE program officer, and a congressional staffer to unpack how to make initial contact, what materials to bring, how to frame a brief project story, and what members and staff find useful in meetings. The panel emphasizes advocacy and effective communication of ATE project impacts, helping participants translate technical work into clear, compelling messages. Participants will leave with an outreach planning worksheet, a one-page visit template, and adaptable talking points for their delegations.
David Anderson, PI, Resource Collaborative for Immersive Technologies, l, Vero Beach, FL; Lois Josefson, CEO, Greater MN Development Corporation, Fergus Falls, MN; Olga Pierrakos, Program Officer, National Science Foundation, Alexandria, VA
Showcasing Low-Cost Hands-on Nanotechnology Lab Manual and Presenting Educator Testimonials
This session will focus on low-cost alternatives that have been developed to provide students with hands-on experiences with methods traditionally used in nanotechnology and the semiconductor manufacturing industries. In many cases these activities are portable and can be utilized for student recruitment and outreach at the K-12 and community college levels. The session will also discuss hands-on remote learning and how the Remotely Accessible Instruments for Nanotechnology (RAIN) network can be used in the classroom to give students hands-on experience on sophisticated characterization equipment and introduce the new RAIN website.
Trey Shirley, Lab Manager, Low-Cost Nanotechnology Manual, Center For Nanotechnology Education and Utilization (CNEU) at Penn State, University Park, PA; Zachary Gray, Managing Director, Low-Cost Nanotechnology Education Manual (DUE 2301137), Center for Nanotechnology Education and Utilization (CNEU) at Penn State, University Park, PA
AI Infrastructure and Data Center Deployment: Strategic Next Steps for Colleges
As AI infrastructure and data centers rapidly expand nationwide, community colleges face the challenge of leading high-cost, high-impact regional responses. This session explores the evolving data center industry, current market trends, and their direct implications for technician competencies (KSAs). Featuring a panel of industry experts and experienced educators, we provide a strategic roadmap for colleges in the early stages of data center project development. Key topics include (1) managing pre- and post-construction talent pipelines, (2) leveraging and adapting existing curricula to meet industry demands, and (3) analyzing project timelines for workforce readiness. Participants will gain actionable insights and access to shared resources developed through successful NSF ATE projects.
Josh Labrie, Director NOVA SySTEMic, Data Center Operations Program Development: A National Approach to Improving Capacity for Data Center Education, Northern Virginia Community College, Manassas, VA; Amir Mehmood, Faculty and AWS Trainer, Data Center Operations Program Development: A National Approach to Improving Capacity for Data Center Education, Northern Virginia Community College, Manassas, VA; TJ Ciccone, NOVA DCO Adjunct and Chief Technology Officer Menlo Digital, Northern Virginia Community College, Manassas, VA; Natasha Schuh-Nuhfer, STEM Coordinator, Data Center Operations Program Development: A National Approach to Improving Capacity for Data Center Education, Northern Virginia Community College, Manassas, VA
Building Micro and NanoTechnologies from the Bottom Up at a Rural Community College
Tompkins Cortland Community College (TC3) is a small, rural college building key infrastructure to facilitate training of personnel to support developing regional industries, including semiconductor, thin films, optical, and advanced materials manufacturing. This presentation will discuss how TC3 secured funding to develop a unique facility, with multiple thin film deposition/plasma etching systems, photolithography, advanced vacuum systems, and microscopy for hands-on learning activities. These technologies allow TC3 to develop distinct training programs that complement partnership ventures while advancing the scope of techniques that TC3 trainees will be equipped with for supporting regional industries. The session will also describe how TC3 has leveraged partnerships with local colleges and universities, industry, NSF consortia, and national centers to offer programming in micro-nano technologies that allows graduates to compete for jobs with a breadth of industry partners.
Nicole Levi, Associate Professor, Tompkins Cortland Community College, Dryden, NY; Sophia Georgiakaki, Professor, Tompkins Cortland Community College, Dryden, NY
AI and Industrial IoT’s Evolving Role in Industry 4.0
This talk will address the role that AI and Industrial IoT (IIoT) are playing in the increasing implementation of Industry 4.0/Smart Manufacturing. We will examine the two-year college’s critical role in preparing the next-generation workforce in this area and the cross-disciplinary nature of that technical workforce. Industry 4.0 is no longer off in the future; it is happening now. Manufacturing is embracing the adoption and scaling of smart manufacturing with AI and digital transformation strategies enabled by IIoT technologies. Topics addressed will include: applications of AI and machine learning in the manufacturing environment, the maturing of various IIoT networking technologies and applications software, and the needed skills by workers entering this field as related to us by industry. Emphasis will be placed on how the two-year college can play a major role in the shaping of the needed technical workforce as manufacturing becomes increasingly data-driven and software-enabled.
Gary Mullett, Professor and Department Chair, Advanced Engineering Technologies, National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM), Springfield Technical Community College, Springfield, MA
Building Strong Logic Models for ATE Proposals and Evaluation
Logic models are powerful tools for clarifying and communicating a project’s goals, activities, and intended outcomes. They strengthen grant proposals and evaluation plans by clearly showing how project efforts lead to meaningful results. In this interactive session, presenters will introduce the essential components of an effective logic model and share practical strategies for developing logic models that strengthen ATE proposals. Participants will learn how to align activities with outcomes, communicate project value, and avoid common pitfalls. Participants will then apply what they learned by reviewing their own draft logic model or working from a provided template. Presenters will offer individualized feedback and guidance to help participants strengthen their logic models. Whether you are refining an existing logic model or starting from scratch, this session will provide practical tools you can use immediately. Participants will leave with a logic model guide and template.
Lyssa Becho, Principal Research Associate, EvaluATE, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI; Kelly Robertson, Principal Research Associate, EvaluATE, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI; J. Michael, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI; Brianna Hooks Singletary, EvaluATE, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI
Impact That Speaks: Turning ATE Evaluation into Actionable Stories
Community college STEM programs are producing powerful results, yet those results often remain buried in reports. This session shows how to make impacts speak. Drawing on our evaluation partnerships with four NSF ATE projects at community colleges, we demonstrate how mixed-methods findings can be turned into clear, compelling, workforce-aligned impact stories. Participants will learn how to identify high-value “impact signals” within their own data, including shifts in student confidence, credential completion, retention, and industry engagement, and convert them into concise narratives that resonate with administrators, funders, and industry partners. Through guided practice and real examples, attendees will leave with practical templates and a draft impact statement ready for immediate use.
Sondra LoRe, Director, SPEAR (STEM Program Evaluation, Assessment, and Research) Consultant, #2300775, #2500166, and #2500654, Maryville, TN; Greg LoRe, Evaluation Consultant, #2300775, #2500166, and #2500654, SPEAR (STEM Program Evaluation, Assessment and Research) Consultant, Maryville, TN
From Demo to Deployment: Scaling Fab-Ready Talent With Physical Equipment, VR and AI
As the semiconductor industry expands, attracting a “fab-ready” workforce is critical. This session explores a collaborative model between Training All People (TAP) and NY Creates, utilizing immersive VR curriculum to ignite student interest and accelerate technical proficiency. We demonstrate how students transition from virtual simulations—practicing on $10 million tools that fit “in a backpack”—to world-class fab facilities. Key learning objectives from the Introduction to Semiconductor Manufacturing and Electrical Troubleshooting modules include: The Wafer’s Journey: Visualizing Wafer Paths and Critical Cleanroom Protocols and Core Electrical: Executing Lock Out/Tag Out and Interpreting Electrical Schematics. This session shows how VR training, AI integrations, and physical fab tours provide a scalable workforce development model. Attendees will learn to bridge the gap between classroom theory, advanced manufacturing requirements, and learning practices for simulations combined with physical equipment.
Isai Pochtar, Sr. Account Executive, Training All People Inc, Dallas, TX; Capri O’Hara, Director of Workforce Development, NY Creates, Albany, NY
Taking Advantage of Capacity-Building Opportunities for Growth
Given current constraints on budgets, the Enabling Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity (EPIIC) grant mechanism from the NSF provided funding for community colleges to explore new avenues of collaboration. The NSF aims to broaden participation in innovation ecosystems that advance key technologies by supporting capacity-building efforts at institutions of higher education interested in growing external partnerships. In this session, participants will learn how the EPIIC grant enabled Jefferson College (JC) and Ohlone College (OC) to submit a collaborative grant application. In the year after the EPIIC award, JC was awarded a $4 million Apprenticeships Building America grant and additional applications thereafter have increased the resources available for further growth, while Ohlone College grew its biotechnology and engineering programs. Attendees will also learn about the Business and Industry Leadership Team (BILT) model to enhance industry partnerships.
Josephine Kershaw, Dean of Institutional Effectiveness and Innovation, Jefferson College, Hillsboro, MO; Lori Silverman, Dean, STEM Division, Ohlone College, Fremont, CA
Fostering Divergent Thinking Among First-Time Designers in a Makerspace
Divergent thinking—the ability to generate multiple novel ideas in response to a problem—is an essential skill in both technical and design contexts. This session reports on efforts to develop student capacity for divergent thinking during a design incubator at the Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) makerspace. The incubator was divided into two parts. During the first, students completed a series of spring ideation workshops focused on problem identification. During workshops, students learned structured techniques for ideation, developed and refined a problem statement, and conducted interviews with stakeholders who experience that problem. Students then returned for a summer design residency, using the tools available in the makerspace to ideate and prototype a solution. After the program, students were interviewed about their experiences with divergent thinking throughout the process. Results from these interviews are presented, alongside implications for practice.
Chris Russell, IET Project Manager, Product Design Incubator: Fostering an Entrepreneurial Mindset Through Interdisciplinary Product Design, Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale, VA; Richard Sewell, Fabrication Lab Coordinator, Product Design Incubator: Fostering an Entrepreneurial Mindset Through Interdisciplinary Product Design, Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale, VA
The InnovATEBIO Big Idea Hackathon: Results and Next Steps
InnovATEBIO held a virtual hackathon in the last week of June 2026. Hackathons are short, intense experiences that are well known for their ability to help participants work together in teams to generate new ideas. InnovATEBIO’s Hackathon was designed to create opportunities for community members to work together on new ideas and strategies for addressing shared challenges in biotechnology workforce education. We will discuss the results of this event and the projects that faculty will tackle going forward.
Sandra Porter, President, InnovATEBIO, Digital World Biology, Seattle, WA; Margaret Bryans, Instructor, InnovATEBIO, Montgomery County Community College, Blue Bell, PA
Building a Rural Cyber and IT Talent Pipeline: Partnerships, Pathways, and Outcomes
Rural colleges don’t have the luxury of large labor pools or deep employer networks. To build cybersecurity and IT workforce pipelines a multifaceted approach is necessary. In this session, we share how we’ve built and refined the IT Pathways model at Laramie County Community College in partnership with local employers, K–12 districts, and federal programs including the NSA Center for Academic Excellence. We’ll share what has actually worked for us, and what hasn’t, across recruitment, retention, credential completion, remote learning, and job placement. We’ll also talk about stackable credentials, dual and concurrent enrollment, industry certification alignment, the role of student organizations like TEK Club, and how we structure employer engagement. Participants will leave with practical ideas and a clearer sense of how to leverage these approaches to support students.
Dan McIntosh, Director Wyoming Center for Business and Economic Analysis, Laramie County Community College, Cheyenne, WY; Troy Amick, Director IT Pathway, Improving Access, Recruitment, Retention, and Attainment in IT, Laramie County Community College, Cheyenne, WY