West-MEC staff is excited for the 35th annual Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTEaz) Summer Conference.

The conference is the premier arena for educators from around the state to develop professional skills and gain insight on the latest in Career and Technical Education.

West-MEC will provide multiple learning opportunities to conference attendees. Below is a list of workshops to be presented by West-MEC staff:

Sunday, July 18

‘What Can West-MEC Do For You?’ (3:30pm-5:00pm, Loews Ventana Canyon Resort)

‘AZ Legislative Update’ (11:45am-1:15pm, Westin La Paloma)

Monday, July 19

‘What Can West-MEC Do For You?’ (10:00am-11:30am, Westin La Paloma)

‘CTE 201’ (11:45am-1:15pm, Loews Ventana Canyon Resort)

‘What the Research Says – Update 2011’ (1:30pm-3:00pm, Loews Ventana Canyon Resort)

Tuesday, July 20

‘A Taste for Marketing’ (8:00am-9:30am, Westin La Paloma)

‘What the Research Says – Update 2011’ (10:00am-11:30am, Loews Ventana Canyon Resort)

‘AZ Legislative Update’ (10:00am-11:30am, Loews Ventana Canyon)

Check out West-MEC’s Facebook fanpage and Twitter feed for updates in real time from the conference.

It’s big, it’s booming and it’s geared up to make a bona fide impact for West-MEC Medium Heavy Diesel Technology students.

West-MEC Superintendent Greg Donovan and Assistant to the Superintendent Cliff Migal finalized the purchase of a 2005 Kenworth T60 Heavy Duty Conventional Truck for instructional use.

The new truck will be housed at the West-MEC training bay located on the Sterling, Freightliner, and Western Star of Arizona dealership facility. High school juniors and seniors learn the nuts and bolts of diesel mechanics from industry professionals in this unique program. Students will now be able to experience the features of a live diesel engine as they train.

This purchase was possible because West-MEC has made appreciable and positive inroads with Inland Kenworth and other diesel industry leaders.

West-MEC relies on the guidance of program advisory councils for each of its Central Programs. Business and industry partners examine new and emerging trends in a variety of occupational sectors. They assist with curriculum development, determine workplace needs, and in this instance, assist with the realization of purchasing new instructional equipment.

“We are fortunate to have a knowledgeable and active advisory council leading the charge for our diesel program,” explained Migal.

Migal worked with Inland Kenworth Service Manager John O’Connor to determine the most suitable truck for the diesel program at the most affordable price for the school district. O’Connor scouted the market to find West-MEC’s very own BIG RIG.

Check it out…

West-MEC member districts rule Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) in Arizona.

This list denotes the number of FIRST place winners from West-MEC member district high schools. Students competed in leadership events at DECA, FBLA, FFA, FEA, FCCLA, HOSA and SkillsUSA state conferences.

And for a look at the West-MEC winners by CTSO, check out the following:

After two years and 1600 hours of instruction, students from the Cutting Edge Style Academy graduated the West-MEC Cosmetology program. They are now eligible to test for an Arizona Board of Cosmetology license to practice cosmetology.

Congratulations to the Class of 2010.

Below are the highlights from the commencement ceremony on Friday, May 15, 2010. Become a fan of the West-MEC Facebook fanpage to see more from the event: www.facebook.com/westmec

Ethan Holt is the West-MEC CTE Student of the Month.

Holt, a senior at Buckeye Union High School, serves as chapter president of FFA, formally known as, Future Farmers of America. Joining the chapter as a freshman gave Holt the opportunity to serve various roles within the organization. In addition to his FFA responsibilities, Holt devotes time to studying agriculture, poultry science and veterinary medicine. He was introduced to these specialized professions in his Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses at Buckeye Union High School.

“I think all students should participate in CTE and its leadership organizations because you have the chance to learn and do things you’d never guess you were interested in doing. I’m proud to represent CTE and FFA.” Holt explained.

Gigi Aja, career counselor at BUHS, nominated Holt for the award. Aja credited Holt’s quiet strength and diligent nature as his most valuable leadership traits.

“Ethan is without a doubt the person everyone counts on to get the job done,” Aja explained. “He is inspiring and a true role model for younger FFA members.”

After graduation, Holt will be attending the University of Arkansas to study poultry science. His plan is to advance to Texas A&M University to become a veterinarian.

Congratulations to Ethan!!

Local Valley businesses including: Phoenix International Raceway, The Orcutt Winslow Partnership and The Sundt Companies donated funds to support the West-MEC Career and Technical Education Student of the Month. Monthly winners receive an award plaque and a $50 gift card to Best Buy.