Affinity Groups

ACTE Affinity Groups to Support You!

ACTE affinity groups are centered around shared personal experiences and designed to support CTE professionals and their allies with common identities, interests or experiences in building community. It is our goal that these voluntary groups will serve as platforms on which members can network, engage in mentoring relationships and have discussions aimed at personal and professional growth.

Each of the affinity groups will include online spaces for professional growth where members can share information, resources, and best-practices around shared job functions or identities. Virtual conversations as well as in-person networking activities at ACTE events will also be held by each group. Please note these groups are open only to active members of ACTE.

In fall 2024, we are launching four affinity groups, with more to come in the future!

Read below to learn more and get involved! Questions? Contact Candice Mott.

Affinity Groups

The Black CTE Professionals affinity group is dedicated to advancing the representation and success of Black professionals within career and technical education (CTE). This group aims to address unique challenges and celebrate achievements by providing a platform for networking, mentorship, and professional development. Through these efforts, the group seeks to empower Black professionals, enhance their career growth, and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse CTE community.

Leader: Chad Young
ACTE Staff Liaison: Candice Mott

Acces this group directly at https://www.careeredlounge.com/pg/groups/7843965/black-cte-professionals-affinity-group/.

The LGBTQ+ CTE Professionals affinity group aims to foster a supportive and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals within career and technical education (CTE). By offering networking opportunities, mentorship, and advocacy, the group seeks to address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ professionals and promote diversity and inclusion. The group also works to raise awareness and educate the broader CTE community about LGBTQ+ issues, ensuring a welcoming and equitable space for all.

Leader: Teresa “Gibby” Gibbons
ACTE Staff Liaisons: Steve DeWitt & Dana Lampe

Acces this group directly at https://www.careeredlounge.com/pg/groups/7843971/lgbtq-cte-professionals-affinity-group/.

The Women in CTE Leadership affinity group is dedicated to advancing the representation and success of women in leadership roles within career and technical education (CTE). This group provides a mentorship, professional development, and networking platform, empowering women to achieve their career goals and assume leadership positions. By addressing gender-specific challenges and promoting the achievements of women in CTE, the group aims to foster a more equitable and inclusive professional environment.

Leader: Laura Jaime
ACTE Staff Liaisons: Shani Watkins & Kelli Diemer

Access this group directly at https://www.careeredlounge.com/pg/groups/7843972/women-in-cte-leadership-affinity-group/.

The Young CTE Professionals affinity group is designed to support and connect career and technical education (CTE) professionals under 40 within the ACTE community. This group provides opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and networking tailored to the needs and aspirations of young professionals. By fostering a dynamic and innovative community, the group aims to empower its members to take on leadership roles and drive the future of CTE.

Leader: Brian Rick
ACTE Staff Liaisons: Hanah Richards & Colleen Kennehan

Access this group directly at https://www.careeredlounge.com/pg/groups/7843969/young-cte-professionals-under-40-affinity-group/.

How To Join

ACTE Affinity Groups are housed on our CTE Learn platform and are open to all ACTE members. To join, follow the steps below:

  1. Go to ctelearn.org/community-groups.
  2. On the CTE Learn login page, click the “Login” button underneath “Login with your ACTE Account” and enter your login credentials.
  3. On the Community Groups page, click the group you would like to join. This takes you to the group page in the Career Ed Lounge.
  4. On the Group page, click the green “Request Membership” button.
  5. Review and accept the terms of the ACTE Affinity Groups & Communities of Practice: Participation and Community Standards Agreement.
  6. Please allow up to 10 business days for membership requests to be reviewed and approved.

If you have any issues with your membership request, or have not heard back on your request after 10 business days, please contact Michelle Conner.