ACTE's National Work-Based Learning Conference 2026

Kristy Volesky is a nationally recognized leader in work-based learning with over 20 years of experience as a teacher, coordinator, consultant, and advocate for students, educators, and communities. She co-leads national collaborations through ACTE and the Coalition for Career Development Network, and served as a facilitator for the U.S. Department of Education’s Career Z Challenge. Kristy is the author of Transformational Work-Based Learning and is known for building impactful partnerships that align education with workforce needs.

This is my 41st year in education and my fourth as the WBL coordinator.

Education is what I do. I spent 11 years in the classroom, teaching Family and Consumer Sciences from 6-12 grade in both Minnesota and Utah as well as CTE administration for 9 years. I'm passionate about helping students find what they want to do and recognize they can learn something from everyone! If I'm not doing that, you'll find me in the mountains.

I have proudly served Kiamichi Tech Center at the Stigler, OK campus since 2019.  I began my time with Kiamichi Tech Stigler in the General Fund/Activity Fund department. I quickly developed a passion for supporting student growth through community partnership and student -centered initiatives.  In January 2022 I transitioned into my current role as Career Connections Center instructor and Employment Facilitator.In this position, I have the privilege to work with our 1st year students teaching employability skills, resume writing, and job applications process. I work with our industry partners... Read more

WBL Coordinator for Exceptional Education

WBL is about creating opportunities for ALL kids.
WBL is about developing community resources.
WBL is the solution to the development of talent pipelines- local, regional, and national.
WBL allows for-
“Allowing the eyes to see what the hands are doing and the mind is thinking”
“Becoming what you’re were meant to be.”
“Dream in Color”.

Chloé Yap is a Program Manager at Maui Economic Development Board's STEMworks program, a community-based work-based learning intermediary serving high school career and technical education students across Maui County. In nearly four years in this role, she has built regional industry partnerships, designed student-facing professional development programming, and coordinated work-based learning experiences rooted in Hawaiian values and place-based community. Chloé holds a BS in Psychology from Pacific University and was recently selected for the inaugural cohort of ACTE's Work-Based Learning Leadership... Read more

Miranda Ziegler is a Work-Based Learning Specialist for Jeffco Public Schools, where she manages industry and community partnerships, trains and supports educators, and develops systems and planning to expand access to career-connected learning. Her work was highlighted in Hans Meeder’s book Preparing Tomorrow’s Workforce as an example of effective practice in the field. She also recently served on the inaugural CACTE Work-Based Learning Division. In addition, Miranda is the Executive Director of Colorado Art Awards, the nonprofit state affiliate of the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. There... Read more