Welcome Shamari Jackson to Advance CTE

Welcome Shamari Jackson to Advance CTE

Hello! I am thrilled to join Advance CTE as the new operations and administrative associate! 

In this role, I’ll be supporting the organization’s internal operations and administrative functions to ensure we continue driving high-quality Career Technical Education (CTE) across the nation. I’ll be collaborating closely with staff across teams, helping streamline systems, coordinate logistics, and support the daily operations that keep our mission moving forward. As someone who has spent much of my career supporting educational access and success, I’m thrilled to be part of an organization dedicated to ensuring every learner has access to high-quality CTE. 

I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and later moved with my family to Maryland, where I attended Forestville Military Academy. My academic journey continued at Prince George’s Community College, where I first developed a passion for learner success and educational support systems. I later transferred to the University of Maryland, College Park, earning my bachelor’s degree in American Studies. That program gave me a deep understanding of culture, identity, and systems of opportunity—perspectives that have continued to guide my professional path. 

Early in my career, I found my purpose in grant-funded student support programs aimed at helping learners at two-year institutions successfully transfer and graduate from four-year colleges. I worked closely with first-generation and underrepresented learners, providing academic advising, transfer support, and programming designed to bridge opportunity gaps and improve graduation rates. That work deepened my belief in the power of education and the importance of access and success for all learners. 

Before joining Advance CTE, I served as an executive office associate, where I supported senior leadership and organizational operations with a focus on efficiency, communication, and internal collaboration. My work involved calendar and meeting management, document preparation, internal coordination, and supporting executive-level initiatives—experiences that strengthened my attention to detail and operational awareness. 

I also served as a national program coordinator for the Student Conservation Association, managing conservation and internship programs for young adults across the country. My role included coordinating placements, supporting program logistics, managing partnerships, and providing guidance to interns participating in environmental and conservation-focused work. It was a rewarding experience that allowed me to contribute to both youth development and environmental stewardship. 

In my personal life, I enjoy spending time with my two dogs Halo (Cockapoo/Shiba Inu) and Snow (Pomsky) through hiking and jogs around our local lake. I also enjoy content creation, movie critiques, and reading—when my dogs allow it.

Joining Advance CTE feels like a natural next step—combining my experience in administration and program coordination with my passion for creating supportive systems that help learners thrive. I’m looking forward to learning from my colleagues, contributing to meaningful projects, and supporting the incredible work happening at the intersection of education, workforce development, and ensuring high-quality CTE experiences for all learners. 

Thank you to everyone for your kind welcome and support. I am beyond excited for what’s to come!