I recently joined ACTE as the new Government Relations Manager. In this role, I will be managing a portfolio of federal policy issues that are important to CTE, specifically focusing on the federal budget and appropriations process. Also, in conjunction with the rest of the Public Policy team, I will be working on other policy issues that fall under the jurisdiction of the House and Senate education committees, as well as regulatory issues within the executive branch. In my first blog post with ACTE, I wanted to introduce myself and illustrate why CTE is critically important to me.
I was born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware. As the son of a carpenter, I grew up going to job sites and “learning the trade” through career-based training and education, albeit in informal ways. This was my first real experience with this type of education, where you learn through a combination of hands-on training and formal education techniques. These early encounters developed my curiosity for this real-world, relevant approach to learning.
Growing up, I was fascinated by American history, specifically the founding fathers and formation of our country, which led to me to wanting to pursue a career in politics. I went on to receive my undergraduate degree from Salisbury University, on Maryland’s eastern shore, in political science. Additionally, I obtained my graduate degree from Wilmington University, in public administration.
As a first-generation college student, I understand firsthand the importance of obtaining a postsecondary credential, whether it is an industry certification, two- or four-year degree or beyond, and how it is an increasingly vital step toward securing financial independence and entering the middle class. Through my work at ACTE, I want to ensure that future generations have access to high-quality CTE that can lead to high-wage, high-skill and in-demand careers, and I believe that CTE is a critical component of the equation.
Most recently, I had the pleasure of serving the people of Maryland’s Fourth congressional district as a Legislative Assistant in the office of Congressman Anthony G. Brown (D-MD). My policy portfolio focused primarily on education, workforce development, budget and appropriations; but it also included financial services, trade, tax, housing, small business, telecommunications and energy, as well as the Congressman’s work on the House Natural Resources Committee. Outside of my professional career, I am active in my local community, an avid reader of anything non-fiction, and enjoy woodworking and spending time with my wife and young daughter.
I look forward to advocating on behalf of our members, and advancing policies that will ensure that our future generations have the technical skills necessary to meet the workforce demands of our 21st century economy. I am always happily available as a resource for you and I can be reached at [email protected] or at 703-683-9316.
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