Sessions of 2026 Connection Conference: Brad Whitaker
Mr. Whitaker, Brad, CSIS
President
West-MEC School District #402
I am currently a teacher but have been many things throughout my life. Husband, Father, Artist, Technician, Teacher. These are all things that I have been, and some still am. These experiences have helped shape me and have given me a unique outlook. I found the perfect blend of career for myself. CTE instruction combines my love of passing on my skills, with my lifetime of career experience. I was hired as an experienced Career professional and taught to be an educator. We learn the skills necessary to effectively pass on our hard earned knowledge. I currently am teaching IT Security to high school juniors and seniors. My career has spanned many types of businesses. I have worked as a contractor (self-employed). Small businesses with fewer than 10 employees have also been my home. I have even worked for several multi-national businesses which has allowed me to grow and learn to communicate with many peoples throughout the world. I have been Teaching now for 7 Years here at WestMEC, with Dual Enrollment courses through Glendale Community College.
Sessions:
[5639] ATIEA New Teacher Survival Series
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Westin La Paloma
- Interdisciplinary
Join the ATIEA for the return of the New Teacher Survival Series! This session begins with a panel discussion featuring ATIEA members at different levels of experience in teaching a CTE program. After the panel discussion, breakout sessions will be focused on CTE content areas including CTSOs.
[5637] ATIEA Business Meeting
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Westin La Paloma
- Interdisciplinary
The Arizona Technical and Industrial Education Association (ATIEA) General Business Meeting brings together Career and Technical Education (CTE) professionals from across the state to collaborate, share updates, and advance the mission of supporting high-quality technical and industrial education programs in Arizona. During the meeting, members review organizational reports, discuss legislative and policy updates impacting CTE, and receive information about upcoming conferences, professional development opportunities, and statewide initiatives. The meeting also serves as a forum for members to provide input on association priorities, vote on key decisions, and strengthen partnerships that support student success and workforce readiness. Non-members are welcome to attend, and new member signups will be available for those interested in joining and becoming more involved in the association.
[5638] ATIEA Round Table
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Westin La Paloma
- Interdisciplinary
ATIEA presents a Round Table meeting event to facilitate Industry partners and Educators collaboration. There will be food and drinks. Come join us for a time of collaboration and refreshment. We will also have an auction fundraiser as well as taking membership signups.
