Sessions of 2026 Connection Conference: Stephen Weltsch
Mr. Weltsch, Stephen
Executive Director
ACTEAZ
Stephen Weltsch is a living testament to the transformative power of Career and Technical Education (CTE). From his beginnings as a CTE student in a high school accounting program to becoming a respected leader in the field, Stephen’s journey embodies the impact of hands-on, work-based learning. Overcoming learning challenges through CTE, he gained the skills and confidence that laid the foundation for his academic and professional success. Now serving as the Executive Director for ACTEAZ, Stephen is dedicated to advancing CTE across Arizona and beyond. Previously, he held the role of Assistant Superintendent for Teaching, Learning, and Campus Operations at West-MEC, where he played a pivotal role in shaping high-quality learning systems and industry partnerships. His leadership has helped numerous CTE programs earn recognition at local, state, and national levels. A passionate advocate for CTE, Stephen has served as a three-time ACTEAZ President and the President for the Arizona CTE Curriculum Consortium. With his work for NCLA, he continues to champion high-quality CTE initiatives, bridging the gap between education and industry. His work includes fostering partnerships with charter schools and community colleges, serving on Accreditation Engagement Reviews, and contributing to the Arizona Cognia Council. With 30 years of experience in secondary education, Stephen has worn many hats - teacher, school administrator, district leader, and now, statewide advocate. Holding a BA in Accountancy and an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Arizona State University, he combines his financial expertise with a deep passion for student and educator success. Stephen Weltsch’s leadership in CTE is more than just a career - it’s a mission. As Executive Director of ACTEAZ, he continues to drive innovation, expand opportunities, and ensure that every student has access to the life-changing benefits of career and technical education.
Sessions:
[5797] Annual ACTEAZ Board Meeting
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Westin La Paloma
- Interdisciplinary
Join us for ACTEAZ’s Annual Board Meeting as we honor the dedicated service of our outgoing Board Members and welcome the leaders guiding our 2026–2027 vision. This energizing session highlights key insights from our membership, celebrates the impact of CTE champions across Arizona, and outlines strategic priorities for the year ahead. More than a business meeting, this is a moment of connection, reflection, and renewed commitment to advancing Career and Technical Education statewide. Be part of the conversation, the celebration, and the forward momentum shaping the future of CTE.
[5766] ACTEAZ Connection Conference Opening and Keynote
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Loews Ventana Canyon
- Interdisciplinary
The heart of educational change lies not just in programs or policies alone, but in people… and in the spaces where trust, collaboration, and relevance are cultivated. As CTE educators, we need “third spaces”: environments where authentic connection can flourish outside of our districts. These are the professional communities where ideas are tested, identities are strengthened, and collective momentum is built. Not through compliance, but through belonging. Dr. Fleming’s message provides a practical framework, ensuring your professional development insights translate into meaningful action. We invite you to co-create new environments where people feel seen, valued, and connected. It’s time to create intentional learning communities to drive institutional change, foster continuous improvement, and galvanize support for making education relevant for every student, every day.
[5796] ACTEAZ Annual Awards Celebration
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Westin La Paloma
- Interdisciplinary
Join us as we wrap up the 2026 Connection Conference with an inspiring morning of recognition and celebration! During the 2026 ACTEAZ Awards Breakfast, we will be honoring outstanding educators, leaders, and advocates who are shaping the future of Career and Technical Education. Don't miss this chance to connect, celebrate, and feel empowered by the best in CTE!
