Sessions of 2026 Connection Conference: Ross Rector Jr.
Mr. Rector Jr., Ross, Jr.
Craft Instructor
As an Electrical-Apprenticeship Craft Training Instructor for the Sundt Construction, Ross brings experiences across construction, education, and workforce development. Previously, he served as a Craft Training Instructor with McCarthy Construction, delivering OSHA safety training as an OSHA-Certified Safety and Health Official. His background also includes roles as Workforce Development Manager at NCCER and as Professor and Director of Strategic Partnerships at Central Arizona College, where he led the Electrical and Carpentry programs and built strong industry partnerships. With hands-on experience in carpentry, HVAC/Mechanical, and Electrical trades, and education from Bob Jones University and Northern Arizona University, he is committed to preparing individuals for long-term success in the construction industry.
Sessions:
Business & Industry Engagement in CTE
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Loews Ventana Canyon
- Business and Marketing Education
- Construction Science Technologies
Strengthening Workforce Pipelines Through Collaboration
5665: Electrical Wiring of Service Entrance Panels and Load Calculation
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Westin La Paloma
- Construction Science Technologies
This session provides a practical, real-world learning opportunity for CTE Construction teachers to explore current industry practices related to electrical service entrance panels, grounding and bonding, conductor sizing, overcurrent protection, and load calculations in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC). Participants will examine how to perform basic residential load calculations, including general lighting loads, small-appliance and laundry circuits, demand factors, and service sizing using NEC methodology. This session also highlights how electrical concepts are taught, applied, and aligned with CTE standards and workforce expectations, supporting classroom instruction, lab activities, and apprenticeship pathways. This session is provided at no cost to attendees and is designed specifically to support CTE Construction and Electrical educators, and is hands-on and instructional. Attendees must wear closed-toe shoes suitable for a lab or training environment.
5666: Partnering with CTE Programs to Build Apprenticeship Pathways
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Westin La Paloma
- Interdisciplinary
This session highlights how intentional partnerships between industry, secondary and postsecondary CTE programs can create clear, structured pathways into registered apprenticeships and entry-level employment. Participants will explore effective strategies for partnering with CTE programs to develop and strengthen pre-apprenticeship opportunities aligned with industry needs. Attendees are encouraged to bring examples from their own programs or organizations to support discussion and shared learning. We will examine key components of successful pre-apprenticeship models, including curriculum alignment, employability skills, safety training, industry-recognized credentials, work-based learning, and articulation to apprenticeship programs. This session is provided at no cost to attendees and is designed to support CTE educators, industry partners, and workforce development stakeholders.
