Sessions of 2026 Connection Conference: Scott Spurgeon
Dr. Spurgeon, Scott
Superintendent
West-MEC School District #402
Dr. Scott Spurgeon is the Superintendent and CEO of Western Maricopa Education Center (West-MEC) and brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across rural, suburban, and urban districts. Before joining West-MEC in 2022, he served as a superintendent in Missouri and held senior roles overseeing curriculum, instruction, assessment, and school improvement. A strong advocate for Career and Technical Education, he has earned numerous honors, including the 2024 Most Admired Leaders Award, 2024 Workforce Connector Award, 2023 Leader of the Year in Public Policy, 2023 COGNIA Circle of Excellence Award, and 2020 Missouri Superintendent of the Year. He also serves on several regional boards, including GPEC, ABEC, AEEC, GPEMC, and the Glendale Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Spurgeon earned his doctorate in educational leadership from Saint Louis University. Before entering education, he played professional baseball with the Houston Astros organization and is a member of both the Northwest Missouri State M‑Club Hall of Fame and the MIAA Hall of Fame. He and his wife, Dr. Julia Spurgeon, have four children and five grandchildren.
Sessions:
[5464] Using AI to Alter CTE via Mock Interviews and Work-Based Learning
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Loews Ventana Canyon
- Education and Training
- Health Science Technologies
Artificial Intelligence is transforming education. At West-MEC, we're strategically integrating this technology to provide Mock Interviews and expand access to authentic work-based learning experiences. Through our implementation of Immersive Solutions MetaCoach AI technology in our Medical Assistant and Aesthetics programs, we're pioneering a scalable approach to hands-on career preparation. Our initiative will show how AI can access immersive learning through interactive training, virtual workplace scenarios, and 3D modeling of professional environments. By bringing traditionally external experiences inside our classrooms, we can create a blueprint for equitable access to career preparation—particularly in rural communities and programs facing clinical site shortages. Join us for an interactive demonstration and explore how AI-enabled learning environments could help your program scale quality Mock Interviews and work-based learning opportunities. Experience the technology firsthand and discover how emerging tools can break down barriers while maintaining industry standards.
[5869] CTE at the Center: Designing the Future of Career-Ready Learning
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Loews Ventana Canyon
- Administration
- Construction Science Technologies
Career and Technical Education is no longer on the margins—it is leading the transformation of education and workforce development across Arizona. Join West-MEC, the CHASSE Building Team, and DLR Group for a dynamic, forward-looking session that brings the future of CTE learning environments to life. From strategic workforce planning that identifies high-demand programs, to the intentional design of innovative, industry-aligned learning spaces, to construction partnerships that turn vision into reality—this session connects every step of the journey. Discover how modern CTE environments are being built to accelerate hands-on learning, foster durable skill development, and ensure every learner is prepared for meaningful career pathways and economic independence. If you are ready to rethink what’s possible and position CTE at the forefront of education, this is a session you won’t want to miss.
[5784] West-MEC Networking Reception
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Loews Ventana Canyon
- Administration
Join us for an evening of connection, collaboration, and celebration at the West-MEC Connection Conference Networking Reception! This special gathering brings together the West-MEC Family to engage in meaningful conversations, exchange insights, and honor the impact we are making in education and workforce development. Come celebrate our collective achievements, strengthen relationships, and be inspired by the incredible work happening across West-MEC. Whether you're reconnecting with colleagues or forging new partnerships, this event is the perfect opportunity to reflect on our shared mission and the future of CTE. We look forward to celebrating with you!
