NASDCTEc is pleased to announce that Robin A. Utz recently joined the Office of Vocational and Adult Education’s (OVAE) Division of Academic and Technical Education (DATE) team as Branch Chief for the College and Career Transitions branch. That branch administers national discretionary programs and initiatives that support program development and innovation in CTE. These programs and initiatives are geared toward increasing student achievement, closing the achievement gap, and preparing all high school students for transitions to postsecondary education and careers.
Prior to joining OVAE, Robin served as assistant director of the Career, Standards and Assessment Services Team at the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE). Her responsibilities included providing leadership for K-12 schools to develop and implement a system of quality Career and Technical Education. She worked to develop and implement policy initiatives that reflect a progressive agenda to ensure all students will achieve challenging academic and technical standards to be prepared for college and careers. Her recent role includes working collaboratively with other CTE state directors and leaders on important initiatives, such as assessments and rigorous programs of study.
Robin’s professional career includes roles as a family and consumer sciences teacher, FCCLA advisor, and KSDE education program consultant for CTE programs. She was the 2011 recipient of the Champions of Digital Literacy Award sponsored by Certiport. Nominated by colleagues, peers, and students, Utz is a past recipient of several professional association awards. She has served on numerous committees and held elected offices in professional associations at state and national levels, including ACTE, AAFCS, and NASAFACS. Her bachelor’s and master’s degrees were earned at Kansas State University.
In Robin’s new role at OVAE, she is particularly excited about the opportunity of continued relations with CTE state directors and colleagues across the nation. You can reach her at [email protected] and 202-245-7767.
Robin, who has been active as a NASDCTEc Associate Member, is now able to make an impact at the Federal level and will continue to advance CTE’s value and relevancy.
Ramona Schescke, Member Services Manager
Tags: OVAE