Sessions of 2026 Connection Conference: Ashley Lown
Lown, Ashley, NBCT
Engagement & Placement Coordinator - Potoff Private Philanthropy Endowed Chair
Pima County JTED #11
Ashley Lown is a nationally recognized leader in workforce development and Career and Technical Education (CTE), with deep expertise in designing and implementing work-based learning systems that bridge education and industry. As the Engagement and Placement Coordinator at Pima County JTED, Ashley leads district-wide initiatives that expand employer partnerships, increase internship and apprenticeship opportunities, and align CTE programs with regional workforce needs. She has driven a sustained 46% annual increase in business engagement in work-based learning experiences, empowering students with real-world skills and strengthening local talent pipelines. Ashley works collaboratively with educators, industry partners, government agencies, and community organizations to embed authentic career readiness into CTE classrooms and pathways. In addition to directing professional development for educators—focused on workforce readiness and strategic school-industry collaboration—Ashley is a published author and award-winning educator, honored with recognitions including the Arizona CTE Program of the Year and the Golden Bell Award. She holds a Master’s in Biological Sciences from Miami University and is National Board Certified in CTE. Through her leadership, Ashley champions innovative CTE practices that deliver measurable results—helping educators and employers co-create a skilled, future-ready workforce.
Sessions:
[5478] Take Your Teaching to the Next Level
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Loews Ventana Canyon
- Administration
Discover the impact of National Board Certification on Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Board-certified teachers, proven to advance student learning, contribute significantly to increased achievement—equating to an extra one to two months of instruction. This session explores how CTE administrators can harness these benefits for their schools. Uncover the profound impact of National Board Certification on teacher effectiveness and retention, supported by robust research. Join us to understand how integrating certified educators into your CTE faculty enhances student outcomes and cultivates a culture of excellence in your program.
[5532] Risk-Smart WBL: Contracts, Compliance, and Clarity
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Loews Ventana Canyon
- Administration
Risk management, contracts, and compliance are often the most misunderstood and avoided parts of Work-Based Learning. This interactive session breaks down these complex topics into clear, manageable systems that support high-quality WBL while protecting students, staff, and partners. Participants will work through real-world scenarios, map the lifecycle of WBL contracts, and discuss which compliance elements should be standardized district-wide versus program-specific. Through facilitated discussion and group activities, attendees will explore how clear guardrails actually increase opportunities rather than limit them. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of WBL risk and liability, practical strategies for organizing contracts, and talking points they can use to communicate expectations confidently with students, families, and industry partners.
