NonProfit focused on Empowering Students. Fostering Innovation. Transforming Communities!
About Us
ActivateCTE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by Jason Blackwell, an award-winning educator and nationally recognized expert in Career and Technical Education (CTE). We partner with schools, districts, and organizations across the country to strengthen CTE programming through curriculum development, professional development, program evaluation, industry engagement, and more.
President/CEO
Jason Blackwell is the founder of ActivateCTE. He is a dedicated educator and consultant with over ten years of experience in CTE at the secondary level and four years at the post-secondary level. He is passionate about equipping the next generation of professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. He has received numerous awards for his outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to student success in career and technical education.
Extensive Experience and Industry Expertise: Jason has over a decade of experience in Career and Technical Education (CTE) at both secondary and post-secondary levels. This extensive experience, coupled with his industry expertise in construction and construction management, equips him with a deep understanding of the skills and knowledge students need to succeed in the workforce.
Passion for Student Success: Jason is deeply committed to the success of his students. He has received numerous awards for his outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to student success in career and technical education. He is dedicated to creating educational experiences that engage students and equip them with essential personal, workplace, and technical skills.
Innovative Approach: Jason leverages innovative teaching practices, including project-based learning experiences, to foster a deep understanding of the material and its practical applications. He is also committed to establishing partnerships with industry partners to provide students with real-world experiences through internships, apprenticeships, and job shadowing opportunities.
Vice President & Director of ESPORTS
Galen Kias stands at the forefront of ActivateCTE’s Esports and AME Programming, bringing with him six years of extensive experience in organizing large-scale events and directing esports leagues. His seasoned background in the esports industry makes him a pivotal figure in crafting educational experiences that are not only engaging but also deeply informative and relevant to the fast-evolving digital landscape.
Shaping the Future of Esports and AME Programming at ActivateCTE
Galen Kias stands at the forefront of ActivateCTE’s Esports and AME Programming, bringing with him six years of extensive experience in organizing large-scale events and directing esports leagues. His seasoned background in the esports industry makes him a pivotal figure in crafting educational experiences that are not only engaging but also deeply informative and relevant to the fast-evolving digital landscape.
Industry Leadership and Event Expertise: Galen’s robust experience in the esports realm, especially in event management and league direction, provides him with unique insights into the needs and dynamics of the industry.
Commitment to Educational Excellence: Like Jason Blackwell, Galen is deeply committed to the success of his students. His approach includes integrating practical experiences helps to ensure that students gain a comprehensive understanding of their fields. His leadership continues to be instrumental in fostering an environment where students can thrive and build their occupational identities.
Innovative Educational Strategies: Galen employs innovative educational methods that emphasize hands-on learning and real-world application. His programs are designed to not only teach the fundamentals of esports and media but also to provide students with the necessary tools to innovate and lead in these industries. Through partnerships with industry leaders, Galen ensures that students are competition ready and have access to internships, apprenticeships, and job shadowing opportunities, making them well-prepared for their future careers.
Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO)
Driving Educational Innovation and Industry Collaboration Cooper Kias, former California SkillsUSA State Post Secondary President, is a dynamic leader in promoting Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) and fostering partnerships between industry and education. While working towards a degree in political science at Reedley College, Cooper founded a post-secondary chapter of SkillsUSA, demonstrating his commitment to extending leadership and skills development opportunities beyond high school.
Advocate for Educational Excellence:
Cooper’s dedication extends to his alma mater, where he continues to mentor students, particularly in leadership roles and competitive events. His efforts have significantly contributed to the chapter being recognized as a Gold Chapter of Excellence for two consecutive years and competing in the Model of Excellence at the national level this summer.
Professional Role in the Esports Industry:
In his professional capacity, Cooper serves as a marketing and event coordinator within the esports industry. His role capitalizes on his extensive experience in organizing large-scale events and his deep understanding of how to leverage earned “people capital” in order to accomplish big things.
Leadership and Vision in Esports and Education:
Cooper employs innovative strategies that emphasize hands-on learning and real-world application, ensuring that students are not only well-versed in the fundamentals of esports and media but also equipped with the tools to innovate and lead in their industries. His leadership is instrumental in preparing students for competitive readiness and enhancing their career prospects through comprehensive educational experiences and industry partnerships.
Cooper Kias exemplifies leadership that bridges education with industry, shaping the future of student development and career readiness in an ever-evolving digital world.
Advocacy For CTE, Education, and Workforce Development
In an era when the work landscape is continuously evolving, the importance of Career and Technical Education (CTE), alongside robust education opportunities and workforce development strategies, cannot be overstated. At the heart of sustainable economic growth and individual success lies a workforce that is skilled, adaptable, innovative, and prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. This vision drives our advocacy at ActivateCTE.
Bridging Gaps, Building Futures
Our advocacy efforts are centered around bridging the gap between education and the workforce, ensuring students transition smoothly into rewarding careers. We aim to create a cohesive ecosystem where the curriculum is directly aligned with real-world demands by fostering strong partnerships with industry leaders, policymakers, and educational institutions. This alignment is crucial in preparing students for today’s jobs and those that will emerge in the future.
Our Vision
Empower students with innovative curricula that excite and prepare them for the future.
Equip educators and institutions in ways that support continuous growth and success.
Engage Industry Partners to create a culture where everyone can enjoy success and achievement that adapts to our ever-evolving world.
Level Up with ActivateCTE’s Esports Education Programs
At ActivateCTE, we are committed to providing educational experiences that captivate students and equip them with crucial skills for personal development, the workplace, and technical expertise needed in today’s world. Our methodology focuses on project-based learning, which promotes a profound comprehension of the subject matter and its real-world applications.
The integration of our new CTE Esports and STEAM Programming exemplifies this commitment. CTE is inclusive, spanning 15 industry sectors and 58 career pathways. It allows students to acquire relevant skills for the 21st century. It fosters a strong sense of occupational identity, preparing them for emerging fields and opportunities within the esports and Arts Media Entertainment industry.
FAQ
ActivateCTE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by Jason Blackwell, an award-winning educator and nationally recognized expert in Career and Technical Education (CTE). We partner with schools, districts, and organizations across the country to strengthen CTE programming through curriculum development, professional development, program evaluation, industry engagement, and more.
Our team specializes in building meaningful, community-connected CTE experiences that blend academic rigor with hands-on, project-based learning. In addition to our work in classrooms, we also help develop and sustain support systems for Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) at the local, state, and national levels—empowering student leaders across the U.S. with the infrastructure they need to thrive.
Led by Jason Blackwell, whose leadership has been honored with numerous national awards, ActivateCTE is uniquely positioned to elevate your CTE initiatives and inspire the next generation of skilled, service-minded professionals.
Here are the next steps to ensure we fully understand your needs and objectives:
Needs Assessment: We will send out a assement survey that provides an in-depth assessment of your program, its strengths, and areas of potential growth. This will help us craft a customized plan tailored to your requirements.
Discovery Session: We’d like to set up a 30-minute virtual call to discuss your program’s current status, your specific challenges, and your aspirations for the future. This will give us both a chance to see if our services align with your objectives. [Please provide a few time slots that work for you.
Proposal Submission: After our assessment, we’ll provide you with a detailed proposal outlining the strategies we recommend, the services we believe will benefit your program most, and a tentative timeline of implementation.
Feedback Loop: We value collaboration. Once you’ve had a chance to review our proposal, we’ll schedule another session to discuss your feedback, answer any questions, and adjust our approach if needed.
Kick-off Meeting: Once we’re in agreement, we’ll initiate the project with a kick-off meeting, introducing key members of our team who will be working closely with you. This will also be an opportunity to outline milestones, set expectations, and establish communication protocols.
Services
Curriculum Development
We design and develop comprehensive CTE curricula that are aligned with industry standards and tailored to meet the specific needs of the students and the job market.
On-Site Programs
Book an in-person session led by ActivateCTE curriculum consultants to help educators at the school or district level maximize their knowledge.
Online Webinars
Register for ActivateCTE monthly webinars and industry round table discussions designed to help educators learn about hot topics, enhance their skills, and connect with likeminded professionals.
Program Evaluation
We assess existing CTE programs to identify areas of improvement and make recommendations for enhancements.
Industry Partnerships
We establish and strengthen partnerships with local businesses and industries to provide students with real-world experiences through internships, apprenticeships, and job shadowing opportunities.
Instructional Support
We offer support in the implementation of instructional strategies, including project-based learning, blended learning, and online learning.
Technology Integration
We assist in the integration of technology into the CTE curriculum to enhance instruction and prepare students for the technology-driven workforce.
Career Guidance
We provide career counseling and guidance to help students make informed decisions about their career paths and prepare them for the job market.
Grant Writing and Funding Support
We assist in the identification of funding opportunities and the preparation of grant applications to secure funding for CTE programs.
Compliance and Accreditation Support
We provide support in meeting compliance requirements and achieving accreditation for CTE programs.
Equipment and Resource Procurement
We assist in the procurement of necessary equipment and resources for CTE programs.
Community Outreach
We promote CTE programs within the community to increase awareness and enrollment.
Program Marketing
We develop and implement marketing strategies to attract students to CTE programs.
Strategic Planning
We assist in the development of strategic plans for the growth and sustainability of CTE programs.
Services
01.
Curriculum Development
We design and develop comprehensive CTE curricula that are aligned with industry standards and tailored to meet the specific needs of the students and the job market.
02.
On-Site Programs
Book an in-person session led by ActivateCTE curriculum consultants to help educators at the school or district level maximize their knowledge.
03.
Online Webinars
Register for ActivateCTE monthly webinars and industry round table discussions designed to help educators learn about hot topics, enhance their skills, and connect with likeminded professionals.
04.
Program Evaluation
We assess existing CTE programs to identify areas of improvement and make recommendations for enhancements.
05.
Industry Partnerships
We establish and strengthen partnerships with local businesses and industries to provide students with real-world experiences through internships, apprenticeships, and job shadowing opportunities.
06.
Instructional Support
We offer support in the implementation of instructional strategies, including project-based learning, blended learning, and online learning.
07.
Technology Integration
We assist in the integration of technology into the CTE curriculum to enhance instruction and prepare students for the technology-driven workforce.
08.
Career Guidance
We provide career counseling and guidance to help students make informed decisions about their career paths and prepare them for the job market.
09.
Grant Writing and Funding Support
We assist in the identification of funding opportunities and the preparation of grant applications to secure funding for CTE programs.
10.
Compliance and Accreditation Support
We provide support in meeting compliance requirements and achieving accreditation for CTE programs.
11.
Equipment and Resource Procurement
We assist in the procurement of necessary equipment and resources for CTE programs.
12.
Community Outreach
We promote CTE programs within the community to increase awareness and enrollment.
13.
Program Marketing
We develop and implement marketing strategies to attract students to CTE programs.
14.
Strategic Planning
We assist in the development of strategic plans for the growth and sustainability of CTE programs.
Testimonial
Recommendations
Heathe Jones President/CEO DInuba CA Chamber of Commerce
Nikki Ritchie State Officer Trainer Skills USA CA
Blog
What I Wish People Understood About Being a Student Leader with a Disability
Most people see the stage, the blazer, and the confident speeches. What they don’t see is how much it takes to stand there. What I
What Every Student Leader Should Know About Standing Their Ground
We run for office to serve, not to struggle, to represent others, build something meaningful, and give back to our communities. But sometimes, after all
Reviving the Flame: Overcoming Burnout and Reigniting Passion in CTE Students and Teachers
Burnout—it’s a common affliction that can dampen the enthusiasm and passion of both students and teachers in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Whether it’s
Building a World-Class Workforce: The Role of CTE in Foreign Exchange Education
For foreign exchange students, Career and Technical Education program provide many benefits, enriching their educational journey and enhancing their cultural exchange experience. At the end
FTC Ban on Noncompetes: The Impact of Ending Noncompete Contracts on Skilled Trades
The recent decision by the government to no longer enforce noncompete contracts represents a significant shift in employment law that will have profound implications across
Bridging the Skills Gap: The Crucial Role of CTE Programs in Today’s Industries
Bridging the Skills Gap: The Crucial Role of CTE Programs in Today’s Industries Introduction: In today’s rapidly evolving job market, the skills gap remains a