How can we rethink workforce partnerships and CTE pathways to transform career readiness?

In this episode of Lessons Learned, Season 2, host Matt is joined by Mac Beaton, Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE) for Henrico County Public Schools in Virginia, for an inspiring discussion on how intentional academic pathways and CTE can reshape student mindsets around college and career readiness.

Mac shares his personal journey from apprentice electrician to CTE leader, revealing how hands-on learning and strategic workforce partnerships have been central to his approach. The episode highlights innovative programs like converting 48,000 square feet of mall space into an adult education and training center, and the groundbreaking CTE Letter of Intent Signing Day, which honors students entering the workforce after graduation.

Together, we explore key topics such as:

• The power of experiential learning in preparing students for real-world success
• How modern CTE programs are challenging outdated narratives and building student confidence
• How to build valuable, long-lasting relationships with workforce partners
• How schools can build intentional student pathways that guide students in making informed decisions about their future

Whether you're an educator, workforce partner, or district leader, this episode offers bold strategies and real-world examples of how CTE can drive student engagement and future readiness.

Quote of the Show:

• “Every parent out there wants a better life for their child, and unfortunately, historically, we've always thought the pathway to a better life was a four-year degree. That's just the way we grew up… But the world has changed. Business has changed. When you look at the number of jobs that are out there that require a four-year degree, that has changed… We've put a lot of effort into changing the narrative about what people thought about career and technical education.” - Mac Beaton

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mac-beaton-82006733/
• Website: https://www.henricoschools.us/

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bzi3DLY1fCuBknsxWySw6
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lessons-learned/id1714296987
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c715776e-3d77-4a8b-806b-207e01b861af
• Podchaser:
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@betterlesson4313