2026 WV ACTE Summer Conference

You will be able to validate your attendance (Check-In to sessions) using your personal schedule.

2:15pm EDT

Positioning West Virginia as a National Leader in Advanced Manufacturing Through CTE

Monday August 3, 2026 2:15pm - 2:35pm EDT

Don Morris Room - Table 2 @ Marshall University Student Memorial Center

Limited Capacity seats available

West Virginia is uniquely positioned to lead the next wave of advanced manufacturing, driven by strategic investments, geographic advantage, and growing industry demand. This session explores how Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs across the state are aligning to meet that moment—equipping students with in-demand skills while building strong pipelines to local employers.

Attendees will gain insight into how the West Virginia Community and Technical College system and Department of Education are working in tandem to scale workforce-ready programs that support emerging technologies and modern manufacturing environments. Through real-world examples and project highlights, we’ll showcase how thoughtfully designed learning spaces, industry-aligned equipment, and hands-on training models are transforming classrooms into career launchpads.

Drawing on Amtek Company’s experience supporting CTE and workforce development initiatives, this presentation will highlight practical strategies for building flexible, future-ready labs that mirror today’s advanced manufacturing settings. From engineering and fabrication to automation and Industry 4.0 technologies, participants will leave with actionable ideas to strengthen their own programs and position their students—and their state—for long-term success.

Speakers

Gary Daniels

Consultant, Amtek Company

Gary Daniels helps universities, community colleges, technical schools and secondary schools incorporate skills-based training solutions and technologies into their curriculum and instruction so that they can provide students with the best education and opportunities possible as they... Read More →

Monday August 3, 2026 2:15pm - 2:35pm EDT
Don Morris Room - Table 2 Marshall University Student Memorial Center

Speed Networking Session

Area Advanced Manufacturing, Best Practices
global Y

2:40pm EDT

Positioning West Virginia as a National Leader in Advanced Manufacturing Through CTE

LIMITED

Monday August 3, 2026 2:40pm - 3:00pm EDT

Don Morris Room - Table 2 @ Marshall University Student Memorial Center

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Gary Daniels

Consultant, Amtek Company

Monday August 3, 2026 2:40pm - 3:00pm EDT
Don Morris Room - Table 2 Marshall University Student Memorial Center

Speed Networking Session

Area Advanced Manufacturing, Best Practices

3:15pm EDT

Advanced Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Transportation Networking Session: Aligning Programs to Industry Needs

LIMITED

Monday August 3, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm EDT

2W19 Room @ Marshall University Student Memorial Center

Limited Capacity seats available

This is a collaborative, non-presenter-led session designed for educators to connect and share. Participants will discuss program strategies, certifications, safety practices, and industry partnerships that align with workforce needs. Use this time to exchange ideas, problem-solve, and build connections that strengthen these high-demand career pathways.

Monday August 3, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm EDT
2W19 Room Marshall University Student Memorial Center

Networking

Area Advanced Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Transportation

11:00am EDT

How to Effectively Operate a Welding Program

LIMITED

Tuesday August 4, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am EDT

John Marshall Room @ Marshall University Student Memorial Center

Limited Capacity seats available

This session will provide a practical look at how to successfully design, manage, and sustain a high-quality welding program. Participants will explore how to implement a simulated workplace structure that builds student responsibility, accountability, and real-world skills. The session will also cover program organization, safety expectations, equipment and lab management, and strategies for creating an industry-aligned learning environment.

In addition, attendees will gain insight into integrating NOCTI assessments, industry-recognized certifications, and performance-based evaluations to ensure students are workforce-ready. Real-world examples, tools, and strategies will be shared to help instructors strengthen instruction, improve student outcomes, and align their programs with current industry standards.

Speakers