My name is Jessica Giffin, and I’m thrilled to join Advance CTE! As the associate director of data strategy, I support states and national initiatives in strengthening high-quality data use to inform decisions to improve programs and systems and expand access to high-quality career preparation for all learners. Several of the projects I will be supporting include our Developing Next-Generation Credential Policies and Practices and Opportunity Gap Analysis initiatives.

My path into education began in Residence Life, where I supported students while earning my master’s degree in political science from Ohio University. After graduating, I moved to Washington, DC, where I discovered opportunities to connect education and policy. I worked for the federally funded College and Career Readiness and Success Center, developing guidance and toolkits to help states assess student learning from work-based learning experiences.

During my time at the American Institutes for Research, I provided technical assistance to state education agencies on using labor market data to inform Career Technical Education (CTE) programming and created map-based data visualization tools. I’m excited to bring this experience to Advance CTE and continue helping members and policy leaders use data to shape policies that support all learners in accessing family-sustaining careers.

Outside of work, I love traveling anywhere with a beach and my list of future destinations is always growing. I’m also a former theatre kid and proud winner of a few local karaoke competitions.

Get to know the full team on our staff page.