Henrico Career & Technical Education has a podcast! CTE covers 100+ programs in middle school, high school, and at our two Advanced Career Education(ACE) centers. The CTE Now Podcast will address topics important to students, parents, and businesses looking to hire well-educated and trained students from our programs. We will have a range of topics and guests that profile the importance of career and technical education in Henrico County Public Schools. I hope that everyone will subscribe through their favorite podcast service. We will have 2 new episodes every month. Subscribe so you don’t miss one.
Our podcasts are hosted by Reshawn Garnett and Mike Roberts. Reshawn produces all the videos for Henrico CTE, and Mike manages all website and social media for Henrico’s Career & Technical Education Department (CTE).
Click here to visit our podcast page on Anchor. We are currently available on over 9 different podcast venues. Many are listed below.
Available Podcast Sites
Apple Podcasts
Google Podcasts
Spotify
Breaker
Overcast
Pocket Casts
RadioPublic
Stitcher
…and many more…
Links to individual podcasts:
Henrico CTE Now: Mr. Carlos Savory, Welding Instructor, ACE Center at Virginia Randolph, and welding students Alex and Kamir, Season 5, Episode 17, Click here
Welcome to this podcast episode where we explore the amazing world of welding! Today we have a special treat for you: we are joined by Mr. Carlos Savory, a welding instructor at the ACE Center at Virginia Randolph, and two of his talented students, Alex and Kamir. They will share with us their passion for welding, their experiences in learning this skill, and why welding is a great career choice for young people who want to express their creativity and make a difference in society.
Henrico CTE Now: Live at the 2023 Mission Tomorrow Event, Season 5, Episode 16, Click here
In this episode, we are at Mission Tomorrow where 8th grade students from Henrico County and surrounding localities visit with over 150 businesses to experience hands-on demonstrations and discuss how a student can prepare to eventually begin their world of work after high school or college.
Henrico CTE Now: Live at the 2023 Life Ready Expo, Season 5, Episode 15, Click here
In this episode, we are at the Life Ready Episode talking with students, their families, and business representatives about why they were at the expo and why they thought it was important. Have a listen and find out about this great event.
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Mary Starr, and Mac Beaton, Season 5, Episode 14, Click here
In this episode, we talk with Mary Starr, Business Development Manager, with Shirley Contracting Company, and Mac Beaton, Director, Workforce & Career Development, HCPS. Out of high school and moving on to college, Mary was working toward a career as a physical therapist. As with many people, things happen and now she is working for a successful civil contractor in Virginia. Find out about her story and why Mac is back on the show on today’s podcast! You are going to love this episode.
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Courtney Baker, Taylor Brannon, Season 5, Episode 13, Click here
In this episode, we talk with Courtney Baker, Director of Workforce Training with Associated General Contractors, and Taylor Brannon, Executive Vice President of F. Richard Wilton Contractor. Our discussion covered everything from the importance of Career and Technical Education for companies that hire trade specialists, managers, supervisors, engineers, and all the support staff needed to operate all types of contracting companies. A large part of the discussion is the need for high school and college graduates for their industries and how students can prepare for their future careers by attending Career and Technical Education programs while in middle and high school.
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Several new teachers at this year’s New Teacher Academy. Season 5, Episode 12, Click here
In our latest episode we talked with several new Career and Technical Education teachers at this year’s New Teacher Academy. The discussion was about the importance of CTE teachers and career switchers getting into teaching CTE classes.
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Automotive Tech Instructor, Mark Schultz, Apprentice, Quinn McCarthy, CMA’s Corey Dahl, Talent Acquisition Specialist, Beth Lucchesi . Season 5, Episode 11, Click here
In our latest episode, we are talking about everything automotive. We have ACE Center at Hermitage instructor, Mark Schultz, automotive apprentice with the Carter Myers Automotive (CMA), and graduate of the ACE Center Automotive Technology program, Quin McCarthy, Cory Dahl, CMA Service Manager, and Beth Lucchesi, Talent Acquisition Specialist with CMA. We talk about Quin’s journey from ACE Center student to his hiring by CMA and to his working to become a master automotive technician. It is a great story of hard work and great people helping him through his young life and preparing for his career.
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Naomi Hines and Carrie Hunt of NAWIC, Season 5, Episode 10, Click here
Recently we hosted Camp NAWIC, the National Association of Women In Construction, at our new Adult Education Center at Regency which is for girls entering 7th – 9th grades to introduce them to a potential career in the construction industry. After that, we sat down with representatives of NAWIC, Naomi Hines and Carrie Hunt, to talk about their event and how NAWIC works to encourage women to enter the construction field.
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Chief Clevert, Deputy Fire Chief at Henrico County Division of Fire and Henrico Firefighter Duan Perez-Means, Fire Recruiter Season 5, Episode 9, Click here
Chief Clevert, Deputy Fire Chief at Henrico County Division of Fire, and Henrico Firefighter Duan Perez-Means, Fire Recruiter are our guests on this episode. They talked with us about exploring and joining the great and noble profession of a Henrico Firefighter. This episode includes the introduction of our new co-host, Marianne McGhee.
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Jason Gill, Crews and Gregory Fire Sprinklers Inc. and AFSA VA Chapter Community Project Chair, Jeff Lewis, Vice President of Inspections at VSC Fire & Se, Season 5, Episode 8, Click here
Jason Gill and Jeff Lewis talk to us about their career paths leading up to their involvement in the fire suppression and prevention industry, working with our students at our Adult Education Center, and the career fair they recently hosted with our students.
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Jeffery Grow, Maintenance Control Supervisor with Henrico County Schools, Season 5, Episode 7, Click here
In our latest episode Jeffery Grow, Maintenance Control Supervisor with Henrico County Schools talks to us about his varied career path that started with photography, and the importance of the real-world education that occurs in CTE programs.
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Connor Gentle, Senior Superintendent and, Sam Tignor, Project Engineer with Clark Construction, Season 5, Episode 6, Click here
We talked with Connor Gentle and Sam Tignor, former ACE student in Precision Machinery, with Clark Construction, about careers in construction and the need for young people to decide to make lucrative and important careers in the construction industry.
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Anthony Forest, President of B&S Development, Season 5, Episode 5, Click here
President of B&S Development, Anthony Forest, talks about his career path that took him from college to starting his own construction company in the middle of COVID.
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Judy Frank, Director of State and Regional Partnerships with SREB, Season 5, Episode 4, Click here
Judy Frank is the Director of State and District Partnerships with the Southern Regional Education Board. SREB is a non-profit non-partisan that works with states to form sound education policies and work to transform teaching to help students be prepared after school. Please listen and learn about Judy Frank’s career path from teacher to where she is today with SREB and what they are doing for Virginia schools.
Southern Regional Education Board
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Stephan Corbin with Colonial Web and Candace Wilkerson, Director of Elementary Education with Henrico County Schools Season 5, Episode 3, Click here
In this episode, we speak with Stephan Corbin and his mother Candace Wilkerson. A few months ago, with the help of Mac Beaton, Director of Workforce and Career Development, Stephan was able to have an interview with Colonial Web. Colonial Web is an installation, maintenance, and service of building mechanical and electrical systems or what is sometimes called an HVAC company. We speak with Stephan and Candace about how Stephan’s life has changed since starting his career at Colonial Web. When Stephan was going to his local high school, they did not offer career and technical education programs to students. Listen to this podcast and discover how many of today’s businesses, even without training from a CTE program, will train individuals to start lucrative careers. Having the benefit of experiencing a CTE program while in high school is preferred, and businesses will hire and continue the training necessary to become an expert in a trade but are willing to hire and train anyone with the drive to succeed. This is Stephan Corbin’s story.
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Steve Bonniville President/Owner or Broad Sky Management and Mark Slusher, Vice President of Thalhimer Realty Partners, Inc. Season 5, Episode 2, Click here
In this episode, we talk with Steve Bonniville President/Owner of Broad Sky Management, and Mark Slusher, Vice President of Thalhimer Realty Partners, Inc about the evolution of Regency Mall and the addition of the new Henrico County Adult Education Center which is being built in the mall. The important thing about the Adult Ed Center being built in the mall is that our ACE Center students have been working since the beginning alongside many of our business partners on that construction. Listen to this episode to find out about the revitalization of the mall and the addition of the Adult Education Center.
Henrico CTE Now: Guests: Mac Beaton Director of Workforce Development(CTE), Beverly Cocke, Career Specialist, Susan Moore Director of Public Facilities for Henrico County: Season 5, Episode 1, Click here
Mac Beaton Director of Workforce & Career Development (CTE), Beverly Cocke , Workforce & Career Development Career Specialist, Susan Moore Director of Public Facilities for Henrico County. In this episode, we discuss the expansion of the 3 ACE Centers, their new programs, and the new Adult Education Center at Regency Square Mall that is being built now.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 25: Guests: Turner O’Neal, Cara Jean O’Neal, Victoria Gifford, Click here
Henrico CTE Now visited the Radio Broadcasting & Journalism class. We recorded this podcast with guests Cara Jean O’Neal, Assistant Principal at Freeman High School, her son, Turner O’Neal who is in the Radio Broadcasting program, and Victoria Gifford, instructor for the Radio Broadcasting program. We had an enjoyable conversation about the Radio program as well as the benefits of the CTE comprehensive classes and ACE Center programs. One of the best parts of the interview is that we recorded the interview in front of the Radio Broadcasting class! I very much enjoyed the discussions with the class and their involvement in this episode. Ms. Gifford has a great bunch of young people. I hope to see you guys again soon.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 24: Guests: Dave & Ali Ogburn, Engineers for Goodyear Tire, Click here
Dave and Ali Ogburn talk with us about their career path to becoming engineers at Goodyear Tires. Both of them, while in college, got a lot of experience in a motorsports program at UVA while they studied to become engineers. They both worked for racing teams early on and while Dave is a Performance Test Driver at Goodyear, Ali is a Senior Engineer at Goodyear. They have a remarkable story about the years of experiences that led them to both be working at Goodyear Tires at their facility in Texas. Don’t miss this episode.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 23: Guests: Brenda Woodcock, MSN, RN, WHNP, NEA-BC, Bon Secours Market Chief Nursing Officer, and Nellie League, MSN, RN, NE-BC, Bon Secours Richmond V.P. Nursing, Click here
In this episode, we talk with Brenda and Nellie about the wonderful world of nursing as a career. This is a great exploration of the wide variety of nursing careers and how St. Marys Hospital helps its nurses to grow by funding their education to advance their nursing career.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 22: Guests: President of F. Richard Wilton Contractors, Scott Brannan, and Vice President Taylor Brannon, Click here
In this episode, we talk with the President of F. Richard Wilton Contractors, Scott Brannan, and Vice President Taylor Brannon. They discuss the history of their company and how important CTE is to companies like Richard Wilton Contactor. Scott and Taylor discuss their involvement in our Regency Mall Adult Education project and the need for young people to become involved in the construction trades and how Henrico CTE offers a start in the careers involved in the construction trades.
https://www.frichardwilton.com
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 21: Recap of the Life Ready Expo, Click here
In our latest episode, we are covering the Life Ready Expo where over 150 businesses gathered to talk to 6th graders through 12th graders about how to prepare for their chosen careers. We interviewed parents and students on the night of the event to discuss how the event was helping them. Have a listen.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 20: Hosea Fitten, Program Manager of Workforce Development for Newport News Shipbuilding, Click here
Our latest guest, Hosea Fitten, Program Manager for Workforce & Development for Newport News Shipbuilding talked with us about the many lucrative careers available at NNS! They are looking for welders and pipefitters and even admin staff such as IT, finance and more with all working to do their part to keep our country safe by building ships and more for our military. Have a listen and get informed about the many careers to count available at NNS.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 15: Jeff Covington, owner of Synergy Technical Services, Click here
Jeff Covington is the owner of Synergy Technical Services and we talked with him about his company and how he believes that CTE programs are an essential tool in encouraging young people to consider lucrative trade careers.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 14: Cari Tretina, Chief of Staff for Henrico’s County Manager, Click here
We visited Cari Tretina, Chief of Staff for Henrico’s County Manager, and had a great talk with her about her experiences in the EMT program at the ACE Center at Hermitage when she was in high school. We also discussed her college and career path that brought her to become Henrico Counties’ very first Chief of Staff. It was a great discussion about how CTE programs are just as important to college-bound students as they are for ready-to-work students. Please have a listen and let us know your thoughts. Email us at mwroberts@henrico.k12.va.us with your thoughts and ideas and maybe we will be able to read them on the next show.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 13: Ryan Beck, Welder with Henrico County Schools, Click here
Ryan Beck visited us in the studio and talked about his welding career. Ryan is the welder for Henrico County Schools and his skills are in high demand. Listen to this interesting podcast and learn about the highly lucrative careers in the welding field.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 12: David Mullsteff, CEO/Owner of Tactical Deployment Systems and Cables Plus. Click here
In this episode, we talk with David Mullsteff, CEO/Owner of Tactical Deployment Systems and Cables Plus, both custom copper and fiber cable manufacturing companies. David is a high school graduate who after working for other cable manufacturing companies in his youth, decided to start his own company and ended up starting two. He talks about how career and technical education is important to companies like his and how his company has been affected, like many other companies, by our current demand for workers in many industries.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 11: Matthew Haltiner COO, and Keith Dignan Vice President of Thompson Consulting Engineers, Click here
In this episode, we spoke with Matthew Haltiner COO, and Keith Dignan Vice President of Thompson Consulting Engineers. Their company specializes in designing schools and other types of long-life structures. Their services include mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire engineering as well as construction administration and building systems commissioning. Matthew is a high school grad and Keith went to Pen State to become an engineer. We talked about the importance of a CTE education and early career exposure. Listen in for a great conversation about their career paths and why their company, and many others, are looking for young people right out of high school to come and work for their company and others.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 10: Guest, Bob Beckwith with Cavalier Fire Protection, Click here
In this episode, we visit Bob Beckwith who is one of the owners of Cavalier Fire Protection. He talks with us about how his company is always looking for young people to start with their company and the importance of having a CTE education when starting with Cavalier. They are committed to working with new hires by providing all the available training someone will need to start with the company as well as growing their careers in a great industry that helps keep people safe. If you are college-bound or looking to work right out of high school, Cavalier would be a great company to begin your career with.
American Fire Sprinkler Association (National – Dallas, TX) – firesprinkler.org
American Fire Sprinkler Association (State – Richmond, VA) – virginiaafsa.org
Cavalier Fire Protection – cavalierfire.com
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 9: Jennifer Boyle, President/CEO of Junior Achievement of Central VA, Adrienne J. Minock, Library Manager, Henrico Public Library at Libbie Branch, Click here
Today, Jennifer Boyle talks to us about the work of Junior Achievement, financial literacy and the importance of career exposure, and how JA helps students in Central Virginia with all this and more. We also talked with Adrienne Minock as she describes how Henrico libraries are great resources about area employers, professional resume help, and many other services for Henrico residents. Both also talk about their support for Henrico CTE’s Signing Day which will be returning to JA/Libbie Library location in May and why they think Signing Day is such an important event for students.
https://henricolibrary.org/libbie-mill
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 8: Brian Dail, Managing Director, Regional Project Operations Talent Solutions at Virginia Economic Development Partnership, Click here
In this episode we have Brian Dail, he talks with us about his career path from a CTE program to graduating from a Henrico high school and working for a few machine shops including the machine shop at Rolls Royce to now working for the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. For years now he has been working to bring businesses from all over the world to start operations in Virginia. This is what a Henrico CTE Education looks like.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 7: Career Rodeo 2022, Click here
500 ACE Center students highlighted their skills to 750 middle schoolers and 250 business and community partners during the 2022 Career Rodeo. Join Reshawn Garnett as he recaps this year’s event. Listen to soundbites from various businesses in attendance, as they discuss their industry needs. The Career Rodeo allows students to highlight their skills to our business and community partners. 400 student resumes from this year’s rodeo were requested by industry professionals.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 6: Guest: Tyson Dickson, Jr., Talent Acquisition Partner, Noel Travis, Safety Manager, and Eric Walters, Area Manager, with Southeast Connections, Click here
In today’s podcast, we chatted with Tyson Dickson, Jr., Talent Acquisition Partner, Noel Travis, Safety Manager, and Eric Walters, Area Manager, and they are with Southeast Connections. Southeast Connections provides a full array of services including pipeline and station construction, maintenance, and emergency response. They talked to us about the gas pipeline industry and the high-paying and challenging careers with their company. They are incredibly supportive of Henrico Career & Technical Education and our talented students.
https://www.seconnections.com/
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 5: Guest: Dennis Bickmiere, President of Richmond Raceway, Click here
During CTE Month we had an important guest and Henrico CTE partner, Dennis Bickmiere, President of Richmond Raceway. Dennis oversees two NASCAR races a year and untold expos, events, shows, and concerts each year at his facility. Dennis is aware of the importance of a CTE education and talks with us about opportunities with his company for young people and why CTE helps bring soft skills with the hands-on skills our courses offer. We talk about his path to becoming the President of Richmond Raceway and our upcoming Career Rodeo.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 4: Guest: Chad Blalock, Building Systems Group Manager with W.M. Jordan Company, Click here
This episode’s guest is Chad Blalock who is a Building Systems Group Manager with W.M. Jordan Company. They are a construction services company that works in the Virginia/North Carolina area. Chad talks to us about a special charity project that his company and others and Henrico CTE are involved in. He also talks to us about labor issues in the construction industry and why it is important students explore career opportunities in their industry. He also talks to us about a special project that benefits the Henrico CASA and their Home for Good Project. Henrico CASA
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 3: Guest: Eagle Construction representatives, Tyler Butterworth, ACT Field Superintendent and Nathan Blinn VP of Construction & Strategic Innovation,, Click here
In this episode, we are talking to Tyler Butterworth, ACT Field Superintendent, and Nathan Blinn VP of Construction & Strategic Innovation, Eagle Construction of VA Principal Researcher. They talk with us about some exciting new technologies in the construction industry and the impact of attracting young people to the industry. All aspects of the trades industry are looking to attract students to their companies and Eagle Construction is no different. Tyler, Glen Allen High School grad, and Nathen talk to us about their career paths and why CTE is such an important educational tool for students today.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 2: Guest: Trane Technologies representatives, George Barnes, Ethan Graham, Matt Senters, and Holland Bressler, Click here
We are starting off 2022 with a great episode of Henrico CTE Now. We were able to meet four individuals with Trane Technologies. Now if you were like me, I thought Trane was just an HVAC company. You will find out why they are so much more. Many students today say, when it comes to their careers, they want to do something important. They want to do something to help the planet and the environment. If that’s you then you are going to want to hear what George Barnes, Matt Senters, Ethan Graham, Holland Bressler have to say about Trane Technologies! What is the Gigaton Challenge? It’s going to blow your mind. Find out why a career with Trane could be exactly what you are looking for. Have a listen. 1/25/2022
Henrico CTE Now. Season 4, Episode 1: Guest: Marrie Vargas and Emma Crider, ACE Center EMT graduates, Click here
In the first episode of our 4th season, we interview Marrie Vargas and Emma Crider, ACE Center EMT graduates who have started a CPR program for Henrico County. It’s a great ACE Center Success Story you are going to want to hear about. 1/11/2022
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 26: This Is Our Annual End Of The Year Recap With Some Of Our Best Guests Of 2021, Click here
Have a listen to some clips of our best guests and interviews of 2021. 12/28/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 25: Guest: Devon Gallagher, Nuclear Engineer with Dominion Power, Click Here
In our latest podcast, we meet Devon Gallagher, Nuclear Engineer with Dominion Power! She talks with us about her attending Freeman High School and her days as a CTE student in our former electronics class years ago as well as what she feels about the importance of a CTE education for students today. 12/14/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 24: Guest: Robert Isbell, HCPS Mechanical Trades Supervisor, and ACE Center graduate, Ashton Carr, Click Here
In this episode, we have another great success story! We talk with Robert Isbell, HCPS Mechanical Trades Supervisor, and ACE Center graduate, Ashton Carr. Ashton recently graduated from our ACE Center program, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Plumbing and was recently hired by HCPS Facilities at our Signing Day event. Robert talks about the duties his department covers and Ashton lets us know what it has been like the past few months working in the HCPS Facilities department and how he sees his future. It is another great Henrico CTE success story you are going to want to hear. 11/30/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 23: Guest: Students and Parents at the 2021 College & Career Night, Click here
In our latest episode, Reshawn and I are at this year’s College and Career Night at Henrico High School. Students and parents get to meet with college recruiters and local businesses to prepare students for life after high school. Reshawn interviews several area businesses while I talk to parents and students about the many opportunities Henrico Career & Technical Education offers to get students college and career ready. The businesses that Reshawn interviews talk about everything from internships to full-time jobs offered to our CTE students. Parents and students should listen to discover examples of just a few of the opportunities available from local businesses offered to CTE students. 11/16/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 22: Guest: Students and Parents at the 2021 Life Ready Expo, Click here
The Life Ready Expo was held on the evening of October 19th, 2021, and was attended by 86 businesses. Over 2000 students and parents came to talk to business representatives at the event. They explored varied careers and listened to advice from the businesses on how students could prepare for their future careers. We interviewed students and parents who attended the event to get their thoughts on the expo and why they thought it was important to be there. After last year’s virtual event it was great hearing from everybody face to face and listening to their thoughts. Our conversations with these students and parents revealed some amazing insights on the expo and what is in store for the future of these students! 11/02/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 21: Guest: Charles Tilley, and Allison Powel with Quinn Evans Architecture, Click here
In today’s episode, we have an exciting conversation with Charles Tilley and Allison Powel with the architectural firm Quinn Evans. It is exciting for two reasons. One because they are working on the expansion of our two ACE Centers and about the field of architecture. Join us as we learn about the exciting career path of an architect and about what is going to happen to our two ACE Centers over the next couple of years. 10/19/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 20: Guest: Matt Kellam, Military & Recruitment Program Coordinator, Talent Acquisition for Dominion Power, Click here
Our guest in this episode is Matt Kellam, Military & Recruitment Program Coordinator, Talent Acquisition for Dominion Power. We talk with Matt about the Virginia Energy Workforce Consortium’s “Energy Workforce Development Pathways” Virtual Summit happening on October 21st. The energy industry in Virginia, and the country, is evolving rapidly and they need new young talent and Matt is working hard with school systems to expose students to careers in the energy industry. It does not matter if you are planning to go to college or not, Dominion Power has openings for high school graduates and those in college. Have a listen to find out about the many opportunities at Dominion Power and the upcoming summit. Anyone can attend or listen online. 10/05/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 19: Guest: John Cario, General Manger of to Hilton Richmond, Click here
This episode explores the importance of the Hospitality & Tourism industry to Richmond and the state of Virginia. Part of that importance is finding the right people to work in the industry and Mr. Cario talked about the importance of young people starting their careers with Hilton and how Henrico Career and Technical Education helps them. Have a listen to this great interview and find out about the interesting building that became the Hilton Richmond. Life-time Richmonders will know what I am talking about. 09/21/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 18: Guests: Chamber RVA President & CEO, Brian Anderson and Director of the Department of Workforce & Career Development, Mac Beaton, Click here
In this episode, the Chamber RVA President & CEO, Brian Anderson, and Director of the Department of Workforce & Career Development, Mac Beaton with Henrico County Public Schools discuss the importance of career and technical education and the upcoming Mission Tomorrow event for middle school students in central Virginia this year. 09/07/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 17: Guests: Caitlin Hughes and Beth Smith with MajorClarity, Click here
In this episode, we talk with Caitlin Hughes, Customer Success Manager/Instructional Content Specialist, and Beth Smith, Manager of Education Programs with MajorClarity. MajorClarity is an online tool that promotes career exploration and academic planning for students in grades 6-12, meant to promote active student engagement in preparing for future college and careers. Henrico County Public Schools has partnered with MajorClarity to bring their career and education tools to our students. We have a great discussion with Beth and Catlin about how those tools will help our students to prepare for their future education and careers. 08/24/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 16: Guests: Branscome Regional Manager Mike Van Sickel & ACE @ Highland Springs Grad Kristian, Click here
In our latest episode Reshawn interviews a recent ACE Center at Highland Springs Carpentry student, Kristian, and Regional Vice-President at the Richmond branch of Branscome Paving Company, Mike Van Sickel. Branscome is a leading paving company based in Northern Virginia. Kristian is a graduate of Douglas Freeman High School and is a mechanics apprentice at Branscome. We talk with Mike about Branscome’s partnership with Henrico’s Workforce and Career Development and Kristian’s about getting hired to work for Branscome. Kristian was hired by Branscome on our 2nd Annual Henrico CTE Letter of Intent Signing Day event. 08/10/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 15: Guests: Debbie Kelo, director of programs at SwimRVA, and Ms. Bobbie Southard, our Sports Medicine instructor, Click here
Summertime is usually associated with lots of outdoor activities like swimming. Swimming might be the most popular summertime activity during a hot summer. Every year area pools have to deal with a chronic shortage of certified lifeguards. Two years ago, Henrico CTE partnered with SwimRVA to train our Sports Medicine students to train lifeguards. Please join us as we talk to Debbie Kelo, director of programs at SwimRVA, and Ms. Bobbie Southard, our Sports Medicine teacher, about this important program that helps train more lifeguards in our area. 07/27/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 14: Guests: Lenny Pritchard, Chief of Operations for Henrico County Public Schools, Click here
I was on vacation but Reshawn interviews Chief of Operations for Henrico County Schools, Lenny Pritchard. Reshawn talks to Mr. Pritchard about his days as principal of Deep Run High School and the importance CTE programs in our schools and ACE Centers and how they lead directly to students going to college and preparing them for their careers. 07/13/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 13: Guests: Web Development Teacher Ms. James-Moore, Students, Aly, Sameer, Aadi, and Jayson, Click here
In our latest episode, we are talking with some great students and their teacher. Aly, Sameer, and Aadi recently won first place at the 2021 FBLA National Leadership Conference. We talk to them about the project they worked together on and how they were able to win with it. We also talk with Jayson about the website he created for the Youth Conservation Leadership Program. Here is a link to it: http://www.waterrunoffawareness.com. We also get to talk with their teacher, Ms. James-Moore who is great at inspiring her students to push themselves build their skills to be successful. 06/29/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 12: Guests: Career Ambassadors, Daejah & Keertiana, and Career Specialist Beverly Cocke, Click here
In today’s episode, we talk with a couple of students who are in our new Career Ambassador program. Daejah & Keertiana talk with us about what it was like to be a part of this new and important program and we are joined by Beverly Cocke, CTE Career Specialist, who was part of the team that put it together. 06/15/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 11: Guests: Mrs. Melinda Preston, Family And Consumer Sciences Teacher, FCCLA Advisor, Click here
In this episode, we talk to Family And Consumer Sciences Teacher, Mrs. Melinda Preston about her new YouTube show, Kitchen Thyme. In an effort to engage her students who have been working from home because of COVID she started her own cooking show. She talks with us about how it got started and why Career & Technical Education is so important to students today. 06/01/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 10: Guests: Chris Haynie, Dillon, Morgan, and from Richmond Ford West, Click here
In this episode, we return to Richmond Ford West and talk with service manager Chris Haynie again and two Henrico CTE graduates from the Automotive Technology program at the ACE Center at Hermitage. Both Dillon and Morgan are working at Richmond Ford West as technician apprentices and attending the Ford ASSET program where they can graduate as master technicians. Reshawn and I talk with Chris, Dillon, and Mogan about their experiences with Henrico CTE and how important those experiences can be when students take advantage of the opportunities offered by Henrico CTE and the ACE Centers. 5/18/2021
Henrico CTE Now. Season 3, Episode 9: Guests: Kaitlyn Schmidt, ACE Center EMT Graduate, Click here
In this episode, we interviewed the wonderful Kaitlyn Schmidt. We met with Kaitlyn at the ACE Center at Hermitage where she attended the Emergency Medical Technician class. Since she graduated she has worked for a local medical transport company and is now under contract with Henrico County Fire Department. We spoke with her about her time at the ACE Center and how it has already helped with her current position with the Henrico County Fire Department and her future as an EMT. 05/04/2021
Henrico CTE Now, Season 3 Episode 8: Guests, Deia Champ, Henrico County Public School’s Director of Middle School Education , Click here
Today’s guest is Henrico County Public School’s Director of Middle School Education, Deia Champ. When it comes to the discussion of how soon Henrico students should be exposed to Career & Technical Education, Deia Champ has a thought on the subject. This is a great interview about how important it is for students to experience a CTE education. Hop in and have a listen.
Henrico CTE Now, Season 3 Episode 7: Guests, Michelle Blaney, Payton Ford, Sarah Lambeth, and Amber Taylor, Click here
In this episode, we meet Michelle Blaney, a plumbing apprentice, Payton Ford, BIM Supervisor, Sarah Lambeth, Service Coordinator, and Amber Taylor, IR PSM Coordinator all working at Colonial Web. Their website says they “install, maintain and service mechanical and electrical systems for our communities most important buildings.” No matter what they do this is a great company. We talk with these four successful women working in very different fields but in the same comapny. Whether they are working in a shop, the office, or on a job site; these women put the diversity of the construction industry on full display! Don’t miss this great show!
Henrico CTE Now, Season 3 Episode 6: Guest, Chef J. Person, Click here
Join us as we talk with Chef J. Person who owns Person to Person Catering and Walters Kitchen talks about his career path from owning and running his own mobile car wash company. Then working in a restaurant as a sous chef to becoming the executive chef to becoming a multiple business entrepreneur.
Henrico CTE Now, Season 3 Episode 5: Guest, Briana Smith, first-year teacher, and Seza Aldrich, Click here
In this episode, we are speaking with first-year teacher at Pocahantas Middle School, Briana Smith about attending Henrico CTE Family and Consumer Science classes and the Early Childhood Education class at the ACE Center. We also talk to her about receiving the First Year Teacher award and how CTE started her on the path to becoming a teacher. We also talk to Seza Aldrich with Henrico County Human Resources about a program Henrico offers aspiring teachers a way to their first teaching job with Henrico County Public Schools. 3/09/2021
Henrico CTE Now, Season 3 Episode 4: Guest, Dalton Echard with Anton Paar and 2 High Tech Academy students, Click here
Just over a year ago we came to Anton Paar, an international scientific instrument company with a local office in Ashland Virginia, and interviewed Dalton Echard about Anton Paar and their interest in recruiting students for their apprenticeship program. In this interview, we get to meet two recruits from Henrico’s ACE Center High Tech Academy who have been selected for their program. It’s a great interview. 02/23/21
Henrico CTE Now, Season 3 Episode 3: Guest, Trevor Norton, High Tech Academy graduate, Click here
I think our best shows are our success stories and Trevor Norton, a graduate of our ACE Center’s High Tech Academy has a great story of his career journey. Trevor’s journey has already taken him from Virginia to Arizona. Follow along with us as we explore this episode. 02/09/21
Henrico CTE Now, Season 3 Episode 2: Guest, School Counselors, Tiffany M. Kremsreiter, and Kathy S. Ferrell, Click here
Counselors Kathy S. Ferrell (Hermitage High School) and Tiffany M. Kremsreiter (Henrico High School talk to us about the importance of counselors helping students plan for their future college and careers and so much more. You are going to want to miss this discussion. This is essential information students and parents need to hear. 01/26/21
Henrico CTE Now, Season 3 Episode 1: Guest, Nate Smith, Click here
We have another exciting episode for you here. Nate Smith completed the ACE Center at Highland Springs Computer Technology class a few years ago and that started him on a tremendous journey that has led him to work for two amazing companies already in his young years! So let’s kick off our 3rd season of Henrico CTE Now with his story! 01/12/21
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 24, Guests: LTC Forest Black, retired Sergeant Major Keitha Orth, cadet Brenda Osbourne, Click here
If you are looking for ways to pay for college then you will want to listen to our latest episode. The military has more ways to pay for your education than you can imagine. Listen to our guests LTC Forest Black, retired Sergeant Major Keitha Orth, and cadet Brenda Osbourne as we visit with them at Virginia State University and find out that you will have a regular college life while Uncle Sam pays for your education. Don’t miss out on this information. 12/29/20
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 23, Guests: Brock Covington, Ms. Bobbie Southard, Click here
In today’s episode, we again have a great success story of an ACE Center graduate. Brock Covington graduated from our Sports Medicine course at the ACE Center at Hermitage just a few years ago and he has recently opened his own gym called Iron Built Gym. We talk to him and his Sports Medicine teacher, Ms. Bobbie, about his experiences that led to opening his own business.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 22: Guests: Brian Viscuso, Kevin Poynter, Zane Schultz, Click here
This episode guests are Brian Viscuso, Assistant Director, Infrastructure & Operations Henrico County Information Technology, Kevin Poynter, IT Manager for Service Desk Henrico County Information Technology, Zane Schultz, service Desk Henrico County Information Technology. Today we talk about our Computer Technology graduate from our Advanced Career Education (ACE) Center, Zane Schultz, and how he decided his career path and getting hired right out of high school to work for Henrico County.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 21: Guests: Ms. Catina Downey, CPA, Click here
We really enjoyed interviewing CPA, Ms. Catina Downey. We talked to her about her career path to become a CPA and start her own business. Her graduation from J.R. Tucker High School, and her participation in the Cooperative Education program at Tucker. We also found out that she has worked very hard to give back to the community and is working to encourage students to volunteer as a Student Tax Preparer for the Henrico County Varina Center Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Find out about all this and more by having a listen to this great podcast.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 19: Guest: Larry Maready, John Neal, and Clayton Fuhrman, Click here
In this episode, we visit the Henrico Central Automotive Maintenance (CAM) facility where we talk to Clayton Fuhrman, a recent graduate of our Advanced Career Education (ACE) Center diesel program, Larry Maready, Fleet Manager for CAM, and John Niel, Director of General Services for Henrico County. We had a great interview that included a personal account from a recent graduate from one of our Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, and county reps that know the power of a CTE education. This is really worth a listen.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 18: Guest: Chris Williams, CEO of Henrico Federal Credit Union, Click here
Reshawn and I had a great interview with Chris Williams at the Henrico Federal Credit Union offices. We talked about his career path to CEO at the Henrico Federal Credit Union and how the credit union is involved with educating students about their finances and their commitment to being involved with the community at large.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 17: Guest: Karl Fox, Barbering Teacher, Click here
We just continue to have great interviews with exceptional people. Karl Fox is our new barbering teacher at the ACE Center at Hermitage. He talks with us about his career and how he came to start teaching and why a CTE education is so important today. We could have stayed with him all day. Don’t miss this episode.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 16: Guest: Monica Smith-Callahan, Click here
Today’s interview is with Monica Smith-Callahan. Varina High School graduate, mother, and deputy county manager for community affairs with Henrico County. She speaks with us about the importance of a CTE education in today’s new reality. Students, parents, and business leaders will be interested in this great interview.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 15: Guests: Commander, Curtis Irby, and Master Chief Petty Officer Shawn Grasty, Click here
This episode is special because we have two men who after completing a career in the military both decided to continue to be of service by becoming JROTC instructors with Henrico County Schools. Commander, Curtis Irby, and Master Chief Petty Officer Shawn Grasty talk about their careers and how JROTC can help young students with leadership skills and more. Have a listen to a great episode.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 14: Guest: Eugene Bordonie, a volunteer with our Student House Building Project, Click here
Mr. Eugene Bordonie started his working life as an electrician and switched careers to become a real estate agent. He is also on CTE’s Student House Building Project board called the Henrico County Vocational/Technical Education Foundation. The HBP is a program for our trade students at our ACE Centers to learn and apply their skills on a foundation to roof house that once completed is sold on the housing market which funds the next student build house. Listen to the interview and find out more.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 13: Guests: Dr. Samantha Habib, Veterinarian, Click here
This episode’s guest is Dr. Samantha Habib, a veterinarian with Locke A. Taylor and Associates. We are continuing to focus on essential workers and I don’t think anyone would argue that point when it comes to our pets. Dr. Habib is working as a vet at one of Richmond’s more popular vet hospitals with 2 locations in the Richmond area.
Make sure to give us a shoutout at Henrico CTE Now. We would love to hear from you. What do you like? Who would you like us to interview? Send us an email at mwroberts@henrico.k12.va.us. Also, please tell your friends and family about us and be sure to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE so you get a notice when we have our next episode.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 12: Guests: Dana Markland, CEO of Home Building Association of Richmond, Click here
The Home Building Association of Richmond (HBAR) is a non-profit group, founded in 1946 as a trade organization to help the various companies in Richmond that are involved in building homes. We had a great conversation with Dana Markland, CEO of HBAR about the importance of young people entering into the trades in an industry that has had a decades-long deficit of young people entering the trades fields. The trades are important careers that are fulfilling, create successful individuals, are essential to Richmond, Virginia, and the country.
Make sure to give us a shoutout at Henrico CTE Now. We would love to hear from you. What do you like? Who would you like us to interview? Send us an email at mwroberts@henrico.k12.va.us. Also, please tell your friends and family about us and be sure to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE so you get a notice when we have our next episode.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 11: Guests: Sheldon and Shari Glassner with the ACE Center Graphic Communications Program, Click here
This was a great interview with Sheldon and Shari Glassner. Sheldon is the instructor at the ACE Center at Hermitage Graphic Communications program. Shari is an instructional assistant at Hermitage High School. Sheldon has over the years built one of the top graphic communications programs in the state of Virginia, high school, or college.
The Glassner’s discuss the work they and the students do for many departments in with Henrico County Schools, Henrico government, and other school systems. Sheldon’s program is a great example of the hands-on education students receive with all ACE Center programs. So many essential careers can come from Sheldon’s Graphic Communications program and that what makes it important. Parents and students should look closely and consider his program when considering the different ACE Center programs. CTE and ACE Center students are training to be the essential careers this country needs today and tomorrow!
Make sure to give us a shoutout at Henrico CTE Now. We would love to hear from you. What do you like? Who would you like us to interview? Send us an email at mwroberts@henrico.k12.va.us. Also, please tell your friends and family about and be sure to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE so you get a notice when we have our next episode.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 10: Guests: Johnna Chandler, EMT Teacher at Hermitage ACE Center, Click here
We are continuing our coverage of essential workers and careers out there during COVID 19. This interview is with Johnna Chandler, an Emergency Medical Technician instructor at the ACE Center at Hermitage. Johanna talks to us about her many years of experience and training in the EMT field and her most recent experience when she went to New York to help during the hight of the pandemic.
Make sure to give us a shoutout at Henrico CTE Now. We would love to hear from you. What do you like? Who would you like us to interview? Send us an email at mwroberts@henrico.k12.va.us. Also, please tell your friends and family about and be sure to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE so you get a notice when we have our next episode. A little bird just told me we are interviewing some EMT’s next time. Don’t miss it.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 9: Guests: Ruben Canty, and Crystal Sarvay, Click here
This week we have another podcast profiling essential workers during these days of Corona. The nursing field are right now the warriors on the front lines of this battle against Corona 19. Their numbers are stretched and in need of reinforcing for the current situation and for our daily needs across the country for generations to come. Have a listen as we talk with Ruben Canty and Crystal Sarvay, both graduates of our Practical Nursing program years ago, about the importance of young people getting into the nursing field.
Make sure to give us a shoutout at Henrico CTE Now. We would love to hear from you. What do you like? Who would you like us to interview? Send us an email at mwroberts@henrico.k12.va.us. Also, please tell your friends and family about and be sure to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE so you get a notice when we have our next episode. A little bird just told me we are interviewing some EMT’s next time. Don’t miss it.
Henrico CTE Now Season 2 Episode 8: Power Generation, Part 4 of Our Series on the New Career Cluster, “Energy.”, Click here
This episode is our fourth in a series relating to the new 17th Career Cluster coming from the Virginia Department of Education called “Energy.” In this episode, we are talking about Power Generation and our guests are, Dominika Sink, M&A Associate, Strata Solar, Wafa May Elamin, Executive Director, Virginia Renewable Energy Alliance (VA-REA), Lauren Lopez, SUPV NUCLEAR ENGINEERING, Dominion Energy, and Emily Hughes, Project Manager at EDP Renewables. This was such a great interview and wish we had more time with everybody.
We are recording this while CTE’s offices are closed as are so many others. We were able to get everyone together through Zoom so we apologize that the sound quality is not as it usually is. I hope you like the episode and please like and subscribe to the podcast and let us know how we are doing at mwroberts@henrico.k12.va.us.
Strata Solar
Virginia Renewable Energy Alliance
Dominion Energy
EDP Renewables
Henrico CTE Now, Season 2 Episode 7: Fuel Production and Distribution for the new “Energy” Career Cluster, Click here
This episode is our third in a series relating to the new 17th Career Cluster coming from the Virginia Department of Education called “Energy.” We are talking about Fuel Production and Distribution with, Sasha Furdak-Roy, Operations Center Manager, Northern VA Columbia Gas of Virginia, Dana Willingham, Manager, Technical Training and Training Center Columbia Gas of Virginia, and Greg Meinweiser, ENGINEER II – Nuclear, Dominion Energy. There are so many careers in the energy field today and we hope we are able to inform parents and students of the many opportunities available to young people today.
We are recording this when CTE’s offices are closed as are so many others. We were able to get everyone together through Zoom so we apologize that the sound quality is not as it usually is. I hope you like the episode and please like and subscribe to the podcast and let us know how we are doing at mwroberts@henrico.k12.va.us.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2, Episode 6: Guest Mr. Henry Rosenbaum, Henrico Firefighter, Click here
While we are living with the circumstances of the COVID 19 virus we all now understand what an essential worker is. With that reality, we will begin an interview series with essential workers in this country while we continue our podcast series covering Virginia’s new career cluster. So I hope you will enjoy listening to Henry Rosenbaum, Assistance Chief / Fire Marshal with the Henrico Fire Department as he describes the opportunities offered to today’s young people when it comes to an essential career in today’s world.
Henrico CTE Now. Season 2 Episode 5: The LifeReady Skills Challenge Career Rodeo, Click here
This episode Reshawn interviewed students and business representatives who attended our first annual Skills Challenge Career Rodeo. The event hosted over 425 students and over 100 business representatives at an event where the businesses judged students as they demonstrated their skills and the businesses requested over 300 resumes from the students.
Henrico CTE Now, Season 2 Episode 4: Guests, Jackie Merrick, Sameera Younus-Kan, and Matt Kellam with Dominion Energy, Click here
This episode is our second in a series relating to the new 17th Career Cluster coming from the Virginia Department of Education called “Energy.” In this episode, we have 3 professionals from Dominion Power, Jackie Merrick System Reliability Engineer, Sameera Younus-Kan, Electric Distribution Design, and Matt Kellam, Military & Recruitment Coordinator for Dominion Power. This podcast we are discussing “Energy Transmission, Distribution, and Storage” and how important that students consider important careers in this area of the Energy field.
The new 17th Career Cluster is being introduced through the Virginia Department of Education this July. A Career Cluster is a sequence of courses within your area of interest and was created by the U.S. Department of Education. A Career Cluster will connect you with 79 Career Pathways from high school to college and career. For more information about Career Clusters follow this link to the Virginia Department of Education.
We want to thank the CTE Resource Center for letting us record this podcast in their offices. http://www.cteresource.org/
https://www.dominionenergy.com/
http://www.doe.virginia.gov/
Henrico CTE Now, Season 2 Episode 3: Guest, Daniel Pruitt, Branch Manager for RICOH USA, INC, Click here
We had a great time talking with Daniel about the many services offered by RICO USA and the many benefits of young people coming to work with an international company like RICO. It is amazing how a technology company like RICO has dozens of different careers available for young people to explore covering software, hardware, sales, support, and so many more. Many of these careers can be experienced in our programs before students graduate from high school. Please listen to this great episode and let us know what you think.
RICO USA is working with Henrico CTE and our Graphic Communications program at the ACE Center at Hermitage. We will have a huge room-sized printer for our students to learn and train on. Now that we have this machine the Graphic Communication program students will be handling all major print runs for Henrico Schools and Henrico Government. Getting real-world experience and training that will prepare them for real-world careers.
www.ricoh.usa.com
Henrico CTE Now, Season 2 Episode 2: Guest, Carrie Webster, Chase Counts, KC Bleile, Click here
This episode is special because it is the first of a series of episodes related to the new 17th Career Clusters being introduced through the Virginia Department of Education this July. A Career Cluster is a sequence of courses within your area of interest and was created by the U.S. Department of Education. Students. A Career Cluster will connect you with 79 Career Pathways from high school to college and/or career. For more information about Career Clusters follow this link to the Virginia Department of Education.
We are happy to be interviewing Carrie Webster, Energy Manager for Henrico County, Chase Counts, Director of Utility Programs for Community Housing Partners, and KC Bleile, Executive Director of Virdiant. We discussed how their organizations are contributing to the efficiency and sustainability of energy resources in the state of Virginia.
We want to thank the CTE Resource Center for letting us record this podcast in their offices. http://www.cteresource.org/
Henrico County: https://henrico.us/genserv/energy-management/
Community Housing Partners: https://www.communityhousingpartners.org/
Viridiant: https://www.viridiant.org/
Henrico CTE Now, Season 2 Episode 1: Guest, Kathy Case and Justin White, Click here
In this episode, we talk to Kathy Case with Takeoff Co. and Justin White who is now with CB Flooring (change happened after the show was recorded). Both have been in the flooring industry for a long time and both got to where they are now on very different career tracks. They are talking to us today about Henrico CTE’s Life Ready Expo and how their industry is looking to hire young people to get them started in great careers. Kathy also talks to us about women in construction and NAWIC Richmond, an organization she is involved with that caters to getting women into the trades.
Henrico CTE Now, Episode 25: Guest, Amy Cashwell, Amy Lorenzo, and Steve Rayborn, Click here
Dr. Amy Cashwell, superintendent of Henrico County Schools, talks to us about the importance of CTE programs for students in Henrico County. Amy Lorenzo, Policy Director for Idaho Career and Technical Education, and Steve Rayborn, Deputy Administrator for Idaho Career and Technical Education were in the Richmond area for a conference and heard a lot about Henrico CTE and came for a visit. Of course, we had to have them as guests on our CTE Now podcast. Please join us for another great podcast.
Henrico CTE Now, Episode 24: Reshawn and Mike interview parents and students attending the Life Ready Expo, Click here
As promised we have part 2 of our Life Ready Expo coverage. In part 2 we are talking with parents and students who attended our very first Life Ready Expo. I hope you enjoy it.
Henrico CTE Now, Episode 23, Reshawn and Mike interview businesses attending the Life Ready Expo, Click here
Henrico CTE had a very successful Life Ready Expo with over 150 businesses and over 2000 parents and 8th to 12-grade students. We were able to interview representatives of just a few of the businesses at the Expo. These are great interviews with different industries and showed the importance of business partnerships with Henrico CTE and how we can connect students with these companies and the career tracks they offer.Our next episode will have parents and students we interviewed during the expo so please like and subscribe!
Henrico CTE Now, Episode 22: VACTEA Conference Recap, Click here
Recently the Henrico CTE Now hosts, Rashawn and Mike were invited to hold a demonstration of our podcast to other CTE administrators in Virginia who attended the Virginia Association of Career and Technical Education Conference in Virginia Beach. We had great audiences and 4 great guests from all over Virginia. Here is the combined podcasts from our visit. Our first 2 guests were Kenny Ballance, the Director of Career and Technical Education for Louisa County and Darla Miller, Principal of Valley Career and Technical Center, which is one of 9 regional centers in Virginia. In our second segment, our guests were Jen Alberts, Program Manager Health for Medical Sciences at Fairfax County Schools and Cathy Zanella, Instructional Team Leader with Culpepper County Schools.
Episode 21: Guest, Rob Doolidge, Tech Ed Teacher, Click here
This episode we interview Technology Education teacher, Rob Doolidge, at Short Pump Middle School. Rob talks to us on the importance of student’s involvement with Tech Ed and how it can develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through hands-on woods and metals projects. Rob is a high energy teacher who has built great programs that are highly sought out by many Short Pump Middle students.
Episode 20: Guest, Spencer, Bonnie, and Sam Werneth, Click here,
Spencer Werneth, an EMT student at the Hermitage ACE Center, and his parents Bonnie and Sam are with us today to talk to us about Spencer’s journey to be Life Ready through Henrico CTE. Spencer is a senior that took Sports Medicine as a junior last year and is currently in the EMT program. We talked to Spencer and his parents about his experiences with the ACE Centers as he prepares himself for college.
Episode 19: Guest, Sue Maddock with IGS, Click here
Today’s guests are Susan Moore, Director of Facilities at Henrico County Public Schools and her son Zack Moore, is a mobile repair mechanic for Richmond Machinery. They discuss how a CTE education touched their lives and how it gave Zack a head start toward his career. Zack has a twin brother Luke who took a different path and instead of becoming a mechanic he became a Henrico firefighter after college. Both brothers both ended up in a trade but took different paths. One by way of college and the other started with a CTE education in high school before college. A great discussion on getting college and career ready. Susan Moore also talks about her department hiring our CTE students. Sorry, but we had some recording anomalies in this episode.
Episode 18: Guest, Susan, and Zack Moore, Click here
Today’s guests are Susan Moore, Director of Facilities at Henrico County Public Schools and her son Zack Moore, is a mobile repair mechanic for Richmond Machinery. They discuss how a CTE education touched their lives and how it gave Zack a head start toward his career. Zack has a twin brother Luke who took a different path and instead of becoming a mechanic he became a Henrico firefighter after college. Both brothers both ended up in a trade but took different paths. One by way of college and the other started with a CTE education in high school before college. A great discussion on getting college and career ready. Susan Moore also talks about her department hiring our CTE students. Sorry, but we had some recording anomalies in this episode.
Episode 17: Guest, Angela Stewart, Professional Learning and Leadership with Henrico County Schools, Click here
Our guest is Angela Stewart who is a Professional Development Specialist in the Professional Learning & Leadership Department with Henrico County Public Schools. One of her duties is to help new CTE teachers who may be coming from the world of work, transition into teaching. This is important to help great business people become great teachers.
Episode 16: Guest Rai Beasley, Parent and Supporter Of Henrico CTE, Click here
We were privileged to have Rai Beasley visit us today at CTE Now headquarters to talk to us about why he thinks Henrico CTE is important to the students of Henrico County. Mr. Beasley is a very active citizen of Henrico County. He has on many occasions spoken in front of the Henrico County School Board on many subjects and he and is wife are very active in the community. Their son was a student at the CTE, Advanced Career Education Centers, and according to Mr. Beasley, that experience made a huge impact on his son.
Episode 15: Guest Dr. Pierre Tulowitzki, Click here
Pierre Tulowitski, a professor from Ludwigsburg University visited with us and was able to experience many of our summer programs such as Summer Building Trades, Summer Polytech, our House Building Program, Signing Day and more. Professor Tulowitski teaches the German postgraduate program INEMA, an International Education Leadership, and Management program and is currently a Professor in Residence at the University of Richmond. Before he returned to Germany he was nice enough to join us for a CTE Now Podcast. We talk to him about his CTE visit and about the German education system related to career education compared to the Henrico’s Career & Technical Education.
Episode 14: Guest, Bobbie Southerd , Debbie Kelo, PHD, and Ted Quinn, Click here
For today’s podcast, we are meeting with CTE’s Sports Medicine instructor, Bobbie Southerd, Debbie Kelo, director of programs at SwimRVA and Tedd Quinn, director of safety school, SwimRVA. We are talking about how SwimRVA helps young people how to swim, their safety programs and how we have partnered with SwimRVA to help some of our students learn to be lifeguards and CPR certified. Listen to this great episode and share it with your friends. www.swimrva.com
Episode 13: Guest, Gordon & Lori Taylor from Smoke Pit Grill, Click here
Gordon and Lori Taylor did not start their careers in the restaurant business but the desire for a change in their lives brought them to start a food truck business that led to their own sit-down restaurant, the Smoke Pit Grill. Gordon and Lori recently were able to visit the culinary students at Varina High School and teach them how to smoke ribs and serve them from the largest food truck (actually a trailer) in Richmond. We had a great interview with them about their past careers, their visit to Varina HS and why they want to continue to give back to the community through Henrico CTE. smokepitgrill.com
Episode 12: Guest Victoria Ferris, Intro to Culinary Arts Instructor, Click here
Victoria Ferris is a teacher at Varina High School and is the Intro to Culinary Arts instructor and also Nutritional Wellness. Her very successful program gets her students ready to work in the restaurant industry. Every week her students prepare meals for many of Varina’s sports teams and caters many Henrico County events. She talks with us about what it takes to become a cook and her experiences in the classroom.
Episode 11: Guest Virginia Delegate, John McGuire, Click here
Our guest is Virginia House of Delegates member John McGuire representing the 56th district. Mr. McGuire was born and raised in Henrico. Delegate McGuire took the CTE Electronics program and graduated from Henrico High School. After high school, he joined the Navy and became a Navy Seal. He is also a successful businessman and has been a delegate since 2018. Mr. McGuire talks to us about how CTE influenced his life and how important he feels it is for today’s youth.
Episode 10: Steve Pierce and Heather Greenwell with Virginia Association of Roofing Professionals, Click here
This episode we spend a great half-hour with Heather Greenwell and Steve Pierce with the Virginia Association of Roofing Professionals. They speak with us about the importance of attracting young people to the roofing industry. Mark is also the General Manager of the Richmond branch of Baker Roofing.
https://www.varoofingprofessionals.org/
https://bakerroofing.com/
Episode 9: Guests From A Couple Of our ACE Center Programs And We Are Talking About Signing Day, Click here
This episode is very special. Its subject is about our second annual CTE Signing Day where we recognize and celebrate students who are graduating high school and moving on to the world of work. Like star athletes, our stars are students who are sitting next to their future employer and signing an agreement to start their employment with many eager companies who are looking for trained and experienced young people from Henrico County’s Career and Technical Education programs. Our students are receiving great starting pay with quality benefits that put them in a higher category than most young people working today. Last year’s event had about a dozen students and about 6 companies. This years we have over 100 students going to work with over 50 employers. Please help us honor these great students and employers by visiting our website, henricocte.com, and finding out more and join us on social media @henricocte (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube) and wish these young men and women well as they start their journey to adulthood on April 23rd. They aren’t getting a job, they are starting their career.
Episode 8: Guest, A. Person, instructor for the Masonry program at the ACE Center at Highland Springs, Click here
This week’s guest is Mr. Person, instructor at the ACE Center at Highland Springs Masonry class. Mr. Person talks about the importance of masonry in today’s construction and about how students can make it a career.
Episode 7: Guest, Ricky Akers with James River Exteriors, Click here
In this episode, we interview Ricky Akers, a sight supervisor for James River Exteriors. We talk about the challenges of finding new talent for the masonry industry. We learned a lot from Ricky’s 40 years of experience in the masonry industry. Enjoy. https://jamesriverexteriors.com/
Episode 6: Guest Carter Iseman, David Helmick, Sunni Burton with the Virginia Asphalt Association, Click here
In this great episode, we interview Carter Iseman, Director of Training and Development for Virginia Asphalt Association, David Helmick, Executive Vice President of Superior Paving, and Sunni Burton, QC Lab Technician for Superior Paving. They talk about their work in the asphalt industry and what they are actively doing to attract young people to their industry and more. For more information about the Virginia Asphalt Association please visit www.vaasphalt.com.
Episode 5: Guest Mark Schultz & Anthony Dejarnette (DJ), instructors for the Automotive Technology program at the ACE Center at Hermitage, Click Here
Today’s guests are Mark Schultz and Anthony Dejarnette (DJ), instructors in the Automotive Technology program at the ACE Center at Hermitage
Episode 4: Guest, Chris Haynie, service manager at Richmond Ford West, Click here
Chris Haynie, Service Manager at Richmond Ford West is our guest for today’s episode.
Episode 3: Guest Mr. Renick, A/C, Refrigeration & Plumbing Instructor, Click Here
This episode we interview Duane Renick, A/C, Refrigeration & Plumbing instructor at the ACE Center @ Hermitage and Chris Keithly, owner of CK Appliance Repair, former student of Mr. Renick and his brother Brandon who is also a former student of Mr. Renick. Duane discusses the importance of CTE and the ACE Centers and Chris and Brandon talk about how Duane and his teaching influenced them in their career of choice.
Episode 2: Guest Mitch Haddon with Colonial Webb, Click Here
This week we interview Mitch Haddon, President of Colonial Webb, and discuss the importance of CTE students to his and other businesses in today’s marketplace. https://www.colonialwebb.com/
Episode 1: Guest, Mac Beaton, director of Henrico Career & Technical Education, Click here
Welcome to the first episode of Henrico CTE Now. On today’s show, we have Mac Beaton, Director of Henrico CTE as our guest talking about the importance of Career and Technical Education (CTE). Join Reshawn Garnett and Mike Roberts and find out what CTE is all about.