ACTE's National Work-Based Learning Conference 2026

Brenda Straley is a Career & Technical Education (CTE) leader and workforce consultant with more than two decades of experience designing pathways that connect high school, postsecondary, and apprenticeship opportunities. In her current role with Craft Education, she partners with states, employers, and education systems to align career pathways and build apprenticeship models in healthcare and education. With a strong emphasis on equity, student-centered design, and human-centered systems, Brenda is committed to helping learners navigate clear, supported pathways that lead to meaningful careers.