2024 CTE Works! Summit: Full Schedule

EVENT LOCATION: Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West Hotel, 3131 Campus Drive, Plymouth, MN (hotel website)
WEBSITE: https://www.minnstate.edu/cte-works-summit

THEME: This year’s Summit centers on a deceptively simple yet profoundly impactful theme: Listening.

In a noisy world, listening is not passive - it’s an intentional act of leadership. Turn down the volume and tune in to the voices that matter most—the people we serve. Together, let’s amplify the power of listening to transform education, strengthen communities, and shape a more connected future for career and technical education in Minnesota.

Why listening, and why now?

The pace of change continues to accelerate. To adapt and innovate effectively, we must listen closely to the needs, challenges, and aspirations of those we serve.
The most impactful solutions often come from those closest to the problems. Listening amplifies voices that have too often been marginalized and overlooked.
Data speaks volumes - if we’re attuned to hear it. Sharpening our listening skills helps us glean actionable insights from the wealth of information at our fingertips.

4:30pm CST

Reception sponsored by Greater Twin Cities United Way and the ECMC Group

Tuesday November 19, 2024 4:30pm - 6:00pm CST

Fireside Lounge

After an inspiring day of sessions, join us for an evening of connection and conversation at the Fireside Reception, proudly sponsored by Greater Twin Cities United Way and ECMC Group. We invite you to turn down the volume and tune in to the voices that matter most—the students we serve.

In addition to light refreshments, we’re excited to feature Question the Quo, a public awareness campaign developed by ECMC Group. Based on surveys of Gen Z teens, these national surveys gathered insights from teens ages 14-18 to uncover how high school students are thinking about and planning for their future education and careers amidst an ever-changing environment.

Whether you want to unwind, share insights, or spark new collaborations, this relaxed setting provides the perfect opportunity to deepen your connections. Don't miss this special event — the ideal way to wrap up your first day at the summit!

Presenters

Karl Ohrn

State CTE Director, Minnesota State

Karl began serving as Career and Technical Education State Director for Minnesota in December of 2022 and has been with the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system since 2013. He first became involved with the Perkins Grant while working at Northland Community and Technical... Read More →

Liz Williams

Associate Director, Innovation, Greater Twin Cities United Way

Liz Williams works with the Greater Twin Cities United Way as a Program Officer for Career Academies, collaborating with school districts and partners to reimagine school systems as a lever for community wealth-building. Liz is passionate about disrupting inequitable education systems... Read More →

Yingfah Thao

Director of Profesional Development for Career and Technical Education, Minnesota State System Office

I bring a human-centered approach to everything I do and consider every problem I encounter—big or small—a design challenge. I'm a staunch advocate for creating and delivering delightful user experiences for humans. In my current position, I apply UX and human-centered design... Read More →

Tuesday November 19, 2024 4:30pm - 6:00pm CST
Fireside Lounge