Work-based learning is only as strong as the ecosystem around it, and this panel shows what happens when educators, employers, and students each do their part.

Recorded at ACTE’s National Work-Based Learning Conference in Providence, Rhode Island, this keynote panel features the perspective of an educator, industrial employer, and a student and shares their best insights and practical advice for making WBL impactful.

From the education side, Kathryn Dacier explains what it looks like when work-based learning is embedded in the design of a school, not relegated to the margins. From the employer's perspective, Kathy Sutton argues that the quality of work-based learning depends on whether employers are willing to create placements grounded in communication, mentorship, and meaningful work. And from the student side, Kadence Agin shows how experiences like SkillsUSA, DECA, and work-based learning help young people build confidence, expand their networks, and discover career paths they want to pursue before graduation.

Taken together, the panel makes a practical case for stronger collaboration between schools and employers and a more intentional approach to preparing students for the workforce. It also shows that when those three stakeholders are aligned, work-based learning starts functioning as a true pipeline for talent, readiness, and opportunity.

Meet our Panelists:

• Kathryn Dacier, Career Coordinator, William M. Davies Jr. Career and Technical High School
• Kathy Sutton, Senior Workforce Development Specialist, General Dynamics Electric Boat
• Kadence Agin, Senior, Coventry High School; SkillsUSA Rhode Island State President

Resources in this Episode:

Learn more about the Association for Career and Technical Education

Save the date! ACTE Work-Based Learning Conference 2027 is coming to Oklahoma City April 28-30, 2027.

Other resources mentioned:

• Davies Career and Technical High School
• General Dynamics Electric Boat - student programs
• SkillsUSA
• DECA

More resources on the episode page! https://techedpodcast.com/acte/

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