Read My “Why”

“Throughout my career, I have worked to connect education and sustainable jobs in our community. Trades + Tech provides information and opportunities in the skilled trades and tech that are of great importance to our local economy for both our high school students and adult learners. It is a pleasure helping people find a career that supports them and their families.”

Read My “Why”

“With 35 years of teaching and getting to know students, it is clear to me that talents and skills come in many forms.  Success comes when students’ aptitudes and interests are encouraged to bloom where they are. I hope that Trades + Tech can be a hub of information about how to become a skilled and certified technician, builder, or medical worker. This would be a  “win-win-win”–for students, for employers, and for our community.”

Read My “Why”

“Rooted in a lifelong appreciation for the skilled trades—from growing up with a contractor father to early work with Habitat for Humanity—I’ve seen how hands-on professions can change lives and communities. I currently manage finance and operations in support of the Center for Community Partnerships’ Starr Hill Pathways—a readiness program for 7th–12th graders in Greater Charlottesville that broadens access to career paths beyond college. In an era where AI is reshaping many industries, I remain dedicated to uplifting the trades as a vital, irreplaceable, and empowering avenue for youth.”

Read My “Why”

“My journey with my own children has equipped me with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities of being a screenager in today’s educational system. Obtaining a college degree was a nonnegotiable until my son came along and I realized I can’t make him want to go to college. Jake opened my eyes to accepting that if your heart isn’t truly in it, that’s ok. Every student deserves the opportunity to be shown a path to success and if it doesn’t include 4 years of college, that does not equate to failure on anyone’s part. Let’s change the stigma around choosing trades and tech over student debt (see…there is a bright side). Having varied educational pathways ensures we are meeting every student where they are. Helping them obtain the skills and credentials they need to thrive benefits us all and makes our community even stronger.”

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“As a Chief HR Officer in the healthcare industry, I recognize the critical role that trades and technical skills play in supporting not just healthcare but a wide range of essential sectors. I believe that this area of education is underserved, and by supporting the board of the Trades + Tech Education Foundation, I am committed to helping close the skills gap. This work is vital for ensuring long-term success and sustainability in fields that are foundational to our economy and communities. Supporting trades and technical education aligns with my belief in empowering individuals through education and opportunity.”

Read My “Why”

“During my service on the Albemarle County School Board from 1994-2001, I was a member of the CATEC Board for 7.5  years of my eight-year term. Although I had been a ‘college prep’ snob in high school in regards to folks going into the trades, I got religion! I am now - and have been for over 30 years - a passionate advocate for career and technical education as a valuable career path alternative, not only for its ability to build a career in the trades but also to avoid the onerous debt accumulated through a four-year college degree. I hope to continue this passion with the Trades + Tech Education Foundation. “

Read My “Why”

“I believe that the technical and professional trades sectors are essential elements in nurturing and sustaining a vibrant 21st-century economy. I also believe that tech and trades education and training can be leveraged to positively alter the trajectory of underserved communities. My role through Trades + Tech is to help bring these two visions to life locally!”

Read My “Why”

“I work in the local community to help individuals find entry-level employment with the opportunity for upward mobility. In many instances, this involves connecting individuals with skilled trades and technology training needed to get started in the various trades fields. Skilled trades and technology careers are critical to the local workforce and economy and are great opportunities for individuals to get the skills needed to start meaningful careers.”

Read My “Why”

“I joined Trades + Tech to contribute my knowledge and experience from a long and distinguished career in building maintenance and construction. Having chosen trades over academics, I went from a licensed plumber to Director of Facilities Planning and Construction for Monticello and Associate Director of Maintenance for UVA, where I worked closely with its exceptional Apprenticeship Program.”

Read My “Why”

“It’s clear that your foundation plays a vital role in bridging the skills gap and preparing the next generation for successful careers. I was particularly moved by the stories shared about the students whose lives have been transformed through skilled trades training programs. It’s a testament to the positive impact of investing in education and skills development.”

Read My “Why”

"I joined the board of the Trades & Tech Education Foundation because, having worked in home building and HVAC, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges businesses face finding skilled workers—and the opportunity the trades offer for people to build stable, well-paying careers. I want to use my experience to help bridge that gap and support the next generation of trades professionals."

Read My “Why”

“As a 25+ year tradesperson, I am well aware of the need for education – in the field and in the classroom – as a means for professional mobility and personal growth. I am deeply interested in promoting equity, ensuring that all people have access to satisfying and sustaining careers.”