Hello, everyone! My name is Maria, and I’m thrilled to join Advance CTE as associate director for technical assistance. Joining Advance CTE feels like a natural extension of my career-long passion for helping learners discover meaningful pathways to success—and there has never been a more exciting time to support Career Technical Education (CTE).

I was born and raised in South Carolina, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in English from the University of South Carolina. Later I returned to pursue my master’s and additional graduate studies in educational leadership, technology integration and instructional innovation. Over the past 20 years, I’ve had the opportunity to work across both secondary and postsecondary education, always guided by a commitment to expanding access to high-quality, future-focused learning opportunities.

Before joining Advance CTE, I served in leadership roles with the South Carolina Department of Education and the South Carolina Technical College System, focusing on career readiness, workforce development, accountability and student success initiatives. Those experiences reinforced my belief that strong connections between education and workforce needs create powerful opportunities for learners, communities and employers alike.

I began my career as a computer science educator and technology integration specialist, developing online curriculum and supporting innovative teaching practices in the classroom. That early work sparked my passion for educational innovation and continues to shape how I approach collaboration, leadership and learner success today.

At Advance CTE, I’m excited to partner with state education agencies, members, and partners nationwide to support impactful CTE policies, learner-centered initiatives and workforce-connected opportunities that prepare learners for success in both education and their future careers. I’m especially passionate about expanding access to high-quality CTE programs and strengthening pathways that help every learner thrive.

Outside of work, my family recently relocated to Orlando, Florida, and we’ve enjoyed exploring our new community and traveling whenever we can. I also enjoy gardening, reading and discovering new ways to connect learning, leadership and innovation.

I’m incredibly grateful to join the Advance CTE community and look forward to building strong partnerships that create meaningful opportunities for learners nationwide.