Nebraska Career and Technical Education Conference 2026

This session will explore the unique partnership between Southeast Community College (SCC), the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), and Lincoln Public Schools (LPS) in their effort to promote teaching careers in Skilled & Technical Sciences.  Attendees will learn what steps LPS has taken in their Skilled & Technical Sciences classes to expose students to the idea of becoming a Skilled & Technical Sciences teacher.  In addition, attendees will learn how LPS has partnered with SCC and UNL to promote and recruit students to enroll in STS teaching programs.

This session focuses on the value of strengthening and expanding our modern Transportation Distribution and Logistics within the Skilled and Technical Sciences program as a tool for supporting educators in their instructional practice. Drawing from real-world trade and teaching experience, the session emphasizes how automotive - based, hands on learning helps teachers grow professionally and personally, strengthens instructional relevance, and enhances student engagement. By adding TDL within other STS programs, educators gain practical content that supports quality instruction, continuous learning, and may even begin to introduce a meaningful life long hobby for both teachers and students. 


Session outcomes:

1. Understand how automotive coursework helps supports effective teaching practices.
2. Recognize the instructional value of TDL across multiple pathways and its impact on student engagement and understanding. 
3. Explore strategies for integrating hands-on, automotive-based learning that helps teachers and students professionally,personally, and maybe help create a life-long hobby. 
4. Introduce ideas for an automotive course, even if you are limited on lab space at your school, by bringing a older concept back to a modern way.  

Learn the basics of how to use SketchUp for Schools (a free program for students on a Chromebook) to create a 3D model of their future project. Learn these basic SketchUp functions: rectange (R), push/pull (P), make component, move (M), rotate (Q), dimensioning and how to get ready for printing. If time allows I will share my Google Sheets bill of materials template I use to assist students figure board feet of hardwood and percentage of plywood needed.

iscover how the Nebraska Manufacturing Credential, developed through the leadership of the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance Council (NeMAC), equips students with the essential technical and employability skills needed for today’s manufacturing workforce. This session highlights how the credential aligns with Nebraska industry expectations, enhances Skilled & Technical Sciences instruction, and strengthens student pathways into high-demand careers. Educators will walk away with a clear understanding of the credential impact and practical steps for integrating it into their programs.