During my externship with the Idaho Division of Career Technical Education (IDCTE), I had the opportunity to learn about CTE from a completely different perspective. As an educator, I have always understood the importance of providing students with meaningful, engaging, and career-connected learning experiences. This externship allowed me to step outside of my classroom role and see the systems, leadership, partnerships, and planning that make those opportunities possible for students across Idaho. I truly loved every part of this experience!

One of my primary projects was helping develop a new training course for CTE administrators across the state of Idaho. Our goal was to create a comprehensive, practical, and engaging resource that would prepare new CTE administrators to be effective leaders in their programs. Working in Canvas, we developed a 10-module course that brings together the knowledge, resources, systems, and responsibilities new administrators need to understand. The course includes informational content, quizzes, written reflections, and opportunities for administrators to apply what they are learning to their own roles and programs. Our intended outcome was not simply to provide information, but to help new administrators understand the CTE system, make informed decisions, support educators, and ultimately create stronger opportunities and outcomes for students.

I was also fortunate to participate in Connect 2026. I helped with the conference and had the opportunity to present during a roundtable session. I also created and presented a poster focused on “The Power and Importance of Virtual Education in Idaho.” This experience allowed me to share my knowledge and passion for virtual education while also learning from other educators and CTE professionals from across the state. It reinforced for me how valuable virtual education is in providing flexibility, access, and opportunities for all students.

My work with IDCTE expanded my career knowledge in ways I did not anticipate. I gained a much deeper understanding of Idaho’s CTE system, including program development, leadership, funding, accountability, partnerships, data, professional learning, and the many resources available to support CTE educators and administrators. I learned that the work happening at the state level directly impacts what happens in classrooms and the opportunities students have to prepare for their futures.

This experience has also influenced my teaching style. I am leaving the externship with a greater appreciation for purposeful learning, authentic application, reflection, and connecting education to real world outcomes. I have a better understanding of the importance of helping students see not only what they are learning, but why it matters and where it can take them. I also feel more confident collaborating, presenting, creating professional learning, and thinking beyond the individual classroom.

Most of all, this externship reminded me why I love education. I was able to learn, create, collaborate, present, and contribute to work that will support CTE administrators and educators across Idaho. I am incredibly grateful to the IDCTE team for welcoming me, trusting me with meaningful work, and allowing me to be part of something that will have a lasting impact. This experience has strengthened my knowledge as an educator and has given me a new perspective on how we can work together to create better opportunities for Idaho students.