• Jenny Marroquin , District CTE Director/Pre-Educator- Siloam Springs High School, Siloam Springs, AR 

• Melody Gilleran, Culinary Arts Teacher - Lake Hamilton High School, Pearcy, AR 

• Mindy Lyle, Culinary/PreEducator - Acorn High School, Mena, AR 

• Christina Loyd, Culinary Arts/Pre Educator - Nemo Vista Arkansas 

Currently the Highland Community College Western Center Director having served in that role for the past 11 years. Prior to that, she taught Business and Computer classes for 15 years, as well as served as the CTE Coordinator for the school district for 5 years. 

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Yukon High School Principal​

Josh Beatty is an experienced sales professional and Chief Operating Officer dedicated to generating practical pathways to prosperity through education and technology. As the leader of operations for Iconic Drone Education, he drives initiatives in drone education and innovative learning programs. With over a decade of entrepreneurial experience, Josh has made a lasting impact on the lives of countless students. A devoted husband and father of two, he remains committed to building meaningful ventures while nurturing a strong connection to his family.​

Tyler is a dedicated healthcare professional and educator with a diverse nursing and nursing education background. Since 2014, Tyler has built a strong foundation in the nursing field, gaining extensive experience in various hospital settings.

Transitioning into education, Tyler has spent the past three years as a Practical Nursing Instructor, sharing his expertise and passion for nursing with future generations of nurses. With a Master of Science in Nursing Education (MSN) degree, he brings advanced knowledge in education, utilizing evidence-based practices to create engaging learning environments.

Tyler is pursuing a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in School Administration at Oklahoma State University–Stillwater, furthering his commitment to advancing in educational leadership. He is dedicated to shaping the next generation of industry professionals while contributing to improving educational practices.

Rachel Belmon is the Director of Alumni Affairs for Langston University and a passionate advocate for education and the arts. A former elementary education teacher and Fellow for the Oklahoma A+ Schools Institute at the University of Central Oklahoma, Rachel has spent over a decade empowering educators to bring creativity and joy into the classroom.

Since 2009, she has championed arts integration in schools, equipping teachers with innovative, arts-infused strategies to reach learners of all styles and abilities. She has facilitated professional development workshops across the country, helping K–12 and collegiate educators transform their classrooms through engaging, student-centered learning.

Rachel previously served as Program Director for Arkansas A+ Schools at the University of Arkansas, where she led statewide efforts to promote arts-integrated teaching for five years. Known for her dynamic approach and expertise in joyful, effective classroom management, she continues to inspire educators and build lasting partnerships through her work.

Brooke Cashion is a passionate advocate for innovation in education, serving as a Senior Regional Director with zSpace, Inc.With a deep understanding of augmented and virtual reality, she has been instrumental in providing equitable and engaging learning experiences across the Midwest. Her expertise in integrating cutting-edge technology into the classroom has improved student engagement, creating immersive, interactive, and dynamic educational environments.

Committed to empowering, equipping, and engaging educators and students, Brooke collaborates with schools, higher education institutions, and industry leaders to bridge the gap between technology and learning. Her work with zSpace underscores a mission to enhance educational practices through innovation, ensuring that students are prepared for the future with hands-on, experiential learning.

Ms. Hunter Christmas is currently teaching within Las Cruces Public Schools as an Arts and AV educator, SkillsUSA advisor, and media department head at Centennial High School. Passionate about business, media, and seeing her students achieve, Hunter has worked extensively to prepare students for success through project-based learning and CTSO involvement. Building and maintaining a successful, national awards-winning film program and SkillsUSA chapter, she is dedicated to holding her students to the standards she believes they can achieve.

Stephanie Coca is a Career Development Coordinator for Special Populations at the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education in Stillwater. She shares this role with Katlyn Hudgins. They provide professional development and ensure that CareerTech programs and services are not only accessible, but also supportive of the well-being of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Stephanie’s focus in Special Populations is with English Language Learners, economically disadvantaged, non-traditional students, homeless students and student with disabilities.  For almost 30 years, Stephanie has worked with diverse student populations supporting them through Oklahoma’s post-secondary, vocational, and technology pathways in the public school system.  At CareerTech, she will continue to support students, families, and teachers to achieve their workforce dreams.

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Leslie Cooksey is the Counselor and Ambassador Coordinator at Metro Technology Centers South Bryant Campus in Oklahoma City, Leslie draws from her own experience as a former CTE student to inspire and guide the next generation of learners. Leslie’s career is rooted in a deep appreciation for CTE’s ability to provide real-world skills and transformative opportunities. Her journey from student to teacher to counselor has fueled her commitment to sharing her passion for CTE with others and ensuring that students receive the support they need to succeed. When she’s not helping students chart their futures, Leslie is likely to be found chasing after her energetic 4-year-old, embracing her role as a “passenger princess” on travel trailer trips, or diving into a good book. 

Charlene Cooper is a National Board Certified Teacher in the area of Early Adolescent Science with over 20 years of experience as a public-school educator. She has a master’s degree in educational leadership and a Cyber Education Graduate Certificate from Louisiana Tech. Charlene taught science, STEM, and robotics in Title One schools. She then served as a middle school Instructional Coach providing instructional support and guidance to teachers with the goal of improving achievement for all students. As the Director of Curriculum for CYBER.ORG, she leads the curriculum team in creating cybersecurity content and delivering professional development to educators nationwide.

Brittany’s focus includes providing career and workforce development as well as technical assistance for OK CareerGuide and Connect 2 Business. She advises K-12 and tech center counselors on college and career readiness, as well as provides professional development assistance. In addition, Brittany serves as a liaison for outside entities involved in Oklahoma's workforce development. She has a strong passion for bridging the gap between education and Oklahoma’s workforce.

Prior to joining the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education, Brittany worked for two of Oklahoma’s Federal Congressional members. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in agriculture leadership from Oklahoma State University.

Dr. Jennifer Curtis is a dedicated education leader with a passion for fostering strong partnerships between teachers, parents, and communities to support student success. As the former Section Chief for Mathematics at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) and Director of the Math Science Partnership Grant ($4.8 million annually), she has led statewide initiatives to improve math education.

Her extensive career includes roles as a district curriculum leader, principal mentor, digital learning implementer, elementary school principal, secondary mathematics teacher, and preschool teacher. Dr. Curtis holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership & Policy from the University of Virginia, as well as Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees from Old Dominion University.

As the Founder and President of Emerald Education, she brings together experts to collaborate with school, district, and state leaders, ensuring that every student has access to high-quality learning experiences tailored to their needs.

Andre Daughty is a highly-regarded urban educator in Oklahoma with over twenty years of experience. As a master teacher and transformational leader, he has distinguished himself through his impactful workshops and professional development seminars. Characterized by high energy, practical strategies, collaboration, and captivating stories, Andre's sessions seamlessly connect content to the real world. Recognized as one of the most sought-after leadership, school, and classroom presenters in America, Andre continues to make a lasting difference in schools and organizations nationwide.

Sheri Deaton is a Teaching Assistant Professor of Career and Technical Education in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction in the College of Education and Health Professions at the University if Arkansas. She began her career in education with degrees in family and consumer sciences (BSE) and teaching (MAT), serving as a family and consumer science teacher at Glen Rose for three years and at White Hall High School for ten years. 

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Currently, Deaton serves as the university supervisor for all career and technical education students and advised the University of Arkansas' FCCLA chapter. Deaton frequently presents research and provides professional development opportunities for teacher s in her department, college, state and across the nation. 

Stephen DeWitt is the Deputy Executive Director for the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE). His role includes developing strategic partnerships to advance the association’s mission, and oversight of policy development, advocacy, media relations and research activities. A primary focus of his work at ACTE has been promoting career and technical education’s value related to school improvement and student career readiness. He has 20+ years in the public policy arena.

Prior to joining ACTE, Mr. DeWitt directed government and public relations for the National Association of Secondary School Principals. His role included a strong focus on secondary school improvement and leadership development activities. Previous work also includes employment with the State of Florida’s Governor’s office and Florida Department of Education, and APCO Worldwide, a Washington DC-based public affairs and global communication firm. Mr. DeWitt holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida Southern College.

Michael Dickerson is the CEO and Founder of Dickerson Consulting Group (DCG), a human resource consulting firm specializing in stress management, workplace mental health and employee wellbeing. After serving as a mental health professional for 13+ years, Michael began leveraging this experience and the expertise he gleaned from earning his Applied Positive Psychology Certificate to offer trainings, workshops and keynote presentations in 2020. Since then, he’s partnered with many organizations of all sizes and sectors, including Paycom, Arvest Bank, YMCA, Ben E. Keith, Oklahoma State University and the Metropolitan Library System.

Dr. Dillion has spent decades serving as a teacher, principal, technology director, and innovation leader. Working directly with teachers and leaders throughout the country and applying an equity lens, Dr. Dillon aims to bring excellence to every classroom. He regularly speaks at local, regional and national conferences. 

Dr. Dillon is the co-founder of ConnectED Learning, a St. Louis non-profit dedicated to affordable, quality professional learning for teachers. For his work, Dr. Dillon has been honored by Common Sense Media, the Center for Green Schools, the d.School at Stanford University, the Buck Institute for Education, and Future Ready Schools. 

The Sequins Sisters (Angel Hogen- Smith, Laura Harrison, and Kelly Falkner) are three lifelong educators who share a passion for integrating the innovations of today into their daily work life to achieve efficacy for the district and the students they serve. This terrific (and on some days terrifying) trio is made up of Angel Hogan-Smith - Career Specialist, Laura Harrison – Student Services Coordinator, and Kelly Falkner – Employment Facilitator, who call the Kiamichi Tech Poteau campus their home. With over 80 years of combined experience, they hope to share tips and tricks they have learned along the way to help other educators work smarter not harder.

In the fall of 2019, Wyatt Gerth, fondly known as Mr. G by his students, embarked on a transformative path at Tri County Tech in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Seizing the opportunity presented by the retirement of the Graphics Communication instructor, Wyatt eagerly blended the existing curriculum with his own, giving birth to the Creative Marketing Communications program. His impact reaches far beyond the classroom, as he actively contributes to the community by serving on various boards and committees and offering business and marketing training to small businesses, educators, and tribal organizations.

Wyatt's journey, though still in its early phases, has already shown remarkable commitment to growth, both personally and professionally, as he continues to positively influence students and the community. In 2023, he was honored with the prestigious title of Oklahoma’s New Teacher of the Year. That success continued in 2024 when he earned the distinction of Region IV's New Teacher of the Year, with a chance to compete nationally just around the corner. Energized by these achievements, Wyatt is now passionate about sharing his experiences as an educator and the strategies that have propelled not only his career but also the futures of his students.

Julie Griffin is a dedicated advocate for personal development, driven by a passion for helping individuals recognize their innate strengths and achieve their full potential. In her role at Meridian Technology Center in Oklahoma, she leverages her expertise to work closely with clients across diverse industries, guiding them towards success. As a Certified Facilitator for The6 Types of Working Genius, Julie brings a wealth of knowledge to her training and coaching sessions, equipping participants with practical tools to enhance productivity, communication, and morale in both professional and personal spheres. Julie resides in NE Oklahoma with her husband and two children, where she enjoys balancing her professional pursuits with ranching, fishing, and engaging in her children's activities.

Gayle Hahn grew up in Glenpool, Ok. She finished her degree at Southwestern Christian University and her master’s at Southeastern University.

She's taught numerous subjects for over 15 years, 9 in public education which included English, Science, Pre-Engineering and is now with TulsaTech teaching Intro to Manufacturing. She also has a background in the military and worked in her early career in industry.

She is married with two young adult children. Her passion is to make a difference in the world.

Holly Hanan, M.S.

Oklahoma Department of CareerTech Education

Family and Consumer Sciences State Program Manager

The Sequins Sisters (Angel Hogen- Smith, Laura Harrison, and Kelly Falkner) are three lifelong educators who share a passion for integrating the innovations of today into their daily work life to achieve efficacy for the district and the students they serve. This terrific (and on some days terrifying) trio is made up of Angel Hogan-Smith - Career Specialist, Laura Harrison – Student Services Coordinator, and Kelly Falkner – Employment Facilitator, who call the Kiamichi Tech Poteau campus their home. With over 80 years of combined experience, they hope to share tips and tricks they have learned along the way to help other educators work smarter not harder.

The Sequins Sisters (Angel Hogen- Smith, Laura Harrison, and Kelly Falkner) are three lifelong educators who share a passion for integrating the innovations of today into their daily work life to achieve efficacy for the district and the students they serve. This terrific (and on some days terrifying) trio is made up of Angel Hogan-Smith - Career Specialist, Laura Harrison – Student Services Coordinator, and Kelly Falkner – Employment Facilitator, who call the Kiamichi Tech Poteau campus their home. With over 80 years of combined experience, they hope to share tips and tricks they have learned along the way to help other educators work smarter not harder.

My name is Jennifer Holmes. I am the wife to Zac and the mother to Levi (17) and Kyle (14). With a rewarding career spanning 21 years as an X-ray technologist, specializing in surgery, trauma, and computed tomography, I bring a wealth of real-world medical experience to my teaching. Transitioning to education was a significant change, but my passion for sharing knowledge

and shaping future healthcare professionals has made this journey incredibly fulfilling. I strive to provide my students with an immersive learning experience, drawing from my extensive background in the medical field.

Through real-life scenarios and expert insights, I aim to inspire and prepare them for successful careers in healthcare. My goal is to bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and practical application, ensuring that my students are well-equipped for the challenges and opportunities in the medical world.

Kody Hookstra is an Instructional Design Specialist at Canadian Valley Technology Center, where he has been working with instructors for the past two years. Prior to this role, Kody taught journalism and yearbook at one of the largest middle schools in Oklahoma. Before that, he owned and operated his own mobile food business. 

With a strong background in communications, curriculum, and customer service, Kody brings a unique perspective to his work in instructional design. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and a  Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Northwestern Oklahoma State University.

Kody draws inspiration from his family who are his saving grace and driving force.

Katlyn Hudgins is the Career Development Coordinator for Special Populations at the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education in Stillwater. Her role includes providing professional development and technical assistance to ensure partnerships and programs are appropriate and accessible to individuals who are special populations including, individuals with disabilities, English learners, homeless students, those with a low socioeconomic status, etc. She has experience in workforce development, higher education, and she thoroughly enjoys connecting with other partners and stakeholders to make improvements in education and in the community.

Dr. Christina Hurd serves as the Perkins Region 6 CTE director and has been with Central Louisiana Technical Community College (CLTCC)  in Alexandria, Louisiana, since 2016, where she oversees all Perkins funding for CLTCC and LSUA, as well as CTE initiatives under the Perkins V State Plan, as well as an adjunct Criminal Justice instructor for her institution.  Dr. Hurd has also taught Adult Education in the detention centers and in the CLTCC classroom, as well as served as the Career Pathways Coach, where she created IET pathways for WorkReady U (WRU) students.  Prior to entering post-secondary education, Christina served as a social worker in both therapeutic foster care and geriatrics for 8yrs, a corrections officer and ARDC specialist for a Louisiana prison facility for 3 yrs.  Dr. Hurd holds a PhD in Education and Masters in both Social Work and Criminal Justice.  Dr. Chrsitina Hurd is an Army Veteran who served as a Patient Administrative Specialist-medical (71G), during her enlistment.  Her career goals are to stay in post-secondary and federal grant management.