Talking Shop with CTECS

CTECS Interim Executive Director Dr. Ellen Solek talks with two founding members of the CTECS C.A.R.E.S. Council about the importance of forming relationships in a school community. In this episode, learn about social-emotional learning strategies that can be used in the classroom, at home, and in the community that lead to positive outcomes for students and staff.

CTECS Interim Superintendent Dr. Ellen Solek sits down to speak with Vinal Technical High School student Krista Meehan, junior in the Carpentry program, and Sara Bruno, Sustainable Architecture Department Head (DH) at Platt Technical High School. In this episode, Dr. Solek and guests discuss their experiences as women in CTE, including the challenges, assumptions, and advantages of being a woman in male-dominated industries.

CTECS Interim Superintendent Dr. Ellen Solek sits down to speak with Howell Cheney Technical High School student Jayden Oyola, senior in the Information Technology (IT) program, and John Jordan, Mechanical Design and Engineering Technology (MDET) Instructor. In this episode, Dr. Solek and guest discuss misconceptions of Career and Technical Education (CTE), John’s unique perspective as a Cheney alum who’s passion for the field landed him back in the classroom, and reflect on Jayden’s growth as a student and individual.

CTECS Interim Superintendent Dr. Ellen Solek kicks off the Talking Shop podcast with Robert Trefry. In this episode, Dr. Solek and Robert Trefry discuss how Career and Technical Education (CTE) programming is embedded into Connecticut’s workforce pipeline strategy; the skilled-trade career opportunities available to individuals across socio-economic backgrounds; and Connecticut’s unique high school model for CTE as an exemplar for the nation. Robert Trefry is a well-respected advisor in Connecticut’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) initiatives. He has several decades of leadership experience in the healthcare industry, and expertise in executive and organizational coaching. As CTECS Board Chairman and a member of the State Board of Education, his influence in the CTE sector has provided life-changing educational opportunities to many thousands of high school and adult learners over the years, and supported the economic growth of Connecticut.