On February 21, nearly 100 PLTW educators gathered at Carowinds Amusement Park in North Carolina for a collaborative professional development event aimed at empowering PLTW teachers, administrators, and counselors. The event, which was open to any PLTW educator from North Carolina and South Carolina, brought these educators together with industry professionals to share best practices, explore STEM pathways, and foster community partnerships.
The event’s industry panel session featuring Aaron Showers, Innovation Opportunity Manager at Huber Engineered Woods; Ashley Amyot, Innovation Development Manager at Huber Engineered Woods; and Stephen Greene, Infrastructure Market Lead at ECS Southeast, LLC. These industry leaders engaged in a compelling discussion about the evolving workforce landscape, the skills students need to succeed, and how educators can bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry expectations. Their insights offered valuable perspectives on preparing students for real-world challenges and opportunities.
Showers used artificial intelligence as an example of the importance of problem-solving, critical thinking, and other transferable skills. He emphasized the need for students to apply their own critical thinking and expertise. “How can students add their own expertise to make the (AI) idea actionable and not say ‘AI said this; it must be right,’” he said. “I'll tell you today no, that’s not true.”
Greene went on to emphasize the importance of industry engagement with education to build a strong workforce in STEM. “One of the reasons why I am here today is because I found PLTW and the breadth of schools they are in in the state is huge,” he said. “We have a great need (for employees), and we can’t find enough people.”
Amyot highlighted the importance of workforce development and exposing students to diverse career pathways. “We have a massive skilled labor shortage in this country,” she said, going on to emphasize the importance of exposing students to diverse career pathways, recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to success. She also highlighted that the skills students develop along the way will benefit them in any career they choose.
Attendees also participated in breakout sessions designed to support their efforts in STEM education and career readiness. They exchanged ideas, shared best practices, and learned strategies for building meaningful community partnerships that enhance student learning. The event also provided ample networking opportunities, allowing teachers to connect with industry representatives and fellow educators to strengthen collaborations that extend beyond the classroom.
By bringing together educators, industry leaders, and community partners, the event fostered meaningful discussions and connections that will continue to impact classrooms and career pathways. As PLTW educators return to their schools, they carry with them new insights, strategies, and partnerships that will help equip students with the skills and experiences needed for success in an ever-changing workforce. Events like these reaffirm the importance of industry-education collaboration in preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
