2025 NCE Conference: Full Schedule

9:00am CDT

Engaging Middle Schoolers in Computer Science

Monday June 9, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am CDT

Middle school is a critical time to spark students' interest in computer science. This session explores hands-on strategies and engaging projects to make learning interactive and meaningful. Educators will leave with actionable ideas for incorporating CS into their classrooms.

Speakers

Lindsay Roberts

Professional Development Specialist, CodeHS

Monday June 9, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Diamond 2

Business Marketing and Management Communication and Information Systems CTE Administrators

10:00am CDT

AI in the Classroom

Monday June 9, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am CDT

Diamond 2

This session introduces practical ways to integrate AI concepts into middle and high school classrooms, including ethical discussions, AI-powered lesson planning, and student-friendly tools.

Speakers

Lindsay Roberts

Professional Development Specialist, CodeHS

Monday June 9, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
Diamond 2

Business Marketing and Management Communication and Information Systems CTE Administrators

1:00pm CDT

Budget-Friendly Experiences for Health Science Students

Monday June 9, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Diamond 6

I will share my journey through developing a hands-on curriculum for HS students (sharing my Health Science 2 curriculum specifically) that has been well-received by students and is budget friendly. I'll also share community resources I utilize, how to open up conversations with those resources, as well as sharing many specific labs and simulations I use.

Speakers

BSN

Tracy Long RN

Monday June 9, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Diamond 6

Health Sciences CTE Administrators

2:00pm CDT

Growing Nebraska’s Future Educators

Monday June 9, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT

Ruby 3

With the increasing demand for qualified educators, Nebraska's Grow Your Own program offers an innovative solution to the teacher shortage. This session will explore how schools can implement a structured, flexible program aligned to NE CTE and Career Readiness Standards, featuring embedded Work-Based Learning and Educators Rising competitions. Attendees will learn about the three-course (soon to be four course) sequence, dual-credit opportunities, and resources available to support lead teachers and students. Whether you're just getting started or looking to enhance your existing program, this session will provide practical strategies and insights to cultivate the next generation of educators.

Speakers

Lynne Herr

Tech PD Consultant, ESU 6

Kristen Slechta

Professional Learning Specialist, ESU 9

Hello! I am passionate about learning and professional growth. My teaching experience is secondary science. My training experience includes continuous improvement, engagement, instructional best practices, and designing high quality learning experiences for all. I love to make connections... Read More →

Dr. Katie Soto

Professional Learning Specialist, ESU 9

Monday June 9, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Ruby 3

Cross Career Field Human Sciences and Education (FCS) School Counselors CTE Administrators Work-Based Learning Coordinators

2:00pm CDT

Shaping Future Designers: Transitioning to College

Monday June 9, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT

Diamond 3

The transition from high school to college can be overwhelming for students, especially those pursuing a specialized field like interior design. This presentation will explore valuable resources and effective strategies that high school interior design educators can implement to help students bridge the gap between high school and college. By focusing on foundational design principles, technical skills, creative skills and career awareness, this session will provide educators with actionable takeaways to prepare students for the rigor of college-level design education and foster their academic and professional growth.

Speakers

Rebecca Hermance

Senior Lecturer, Interior and Product Design, University of Nebraska at Kearney

Monday June 9, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Diamond 3

Human Sciences and Education (FCS) CTE Administrators

2:00pm CDT

Teens in the Driver Seat: Peer-to-Peer Education

Monday June 9, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT

Ruby 5

Peer-to-peer education has practical implications for prevention and intervention among young drivers. Teens in the Driver Seat (TDS), a school-based traffic safety program, improves driving knowledge and behavior among teens. Learn about the program, its incentives and free resources it has to offer. The TDS resources would be valuable for use in an FCCLA chapter or FCS classroom, particularly in the Family & Community Advocacy course.

Speakers

Jeanne Bietz

Community Health Educator, NE Dept. of Health and Human Services

I have a passion for public health and have been involved with this profession for over 20 years. My interest is for all things traffic safety and love working with partners across the state including schools. I enjoy my family, camping, watching my kids play sports and exploring... Read More →

Monday June 9, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Ruby 5

Human Sciences and Education (FCS) Health Sciences CTE Administrators

3:00pm CDT

NSBEA - LDI

Monday June 9, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm CDT

Diamond 5

Invite Only - NSBEA LDI

Speakers

Lorrie Mowry

Chair, NSBEA

Monday June 9, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Diamond 5

Business Marketing and Management Communication and Information Systems School Counselors CTE Administrators Work-Based Learning Coordinators Postsecondary Instructors

10:00am CDT

Elevating CTE: Storytelling & Advocacy Strategies

Tuesday June 10, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am CDT

Ruby 4

Discover effective strategies to highlight the value and impact of Career and Technical Education (CTE) through storytelling, community engagement, and program advocacy. This session will empower administrators, educators, and stakeholders to craft and share their unique CTE stories, inspiring others and elevating the profession’s visibility. Participants will also explore the benefits of active professional involvement in enhancing their expertise, building meaningful connections, and driving the advancement of CTE. Join us to learn how to effectively promote CTE and strengthen its role in shaping future-ready students.

Speakers

Rick Painter

Tuesday June 10, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
Ruby 4

Administrators School Counselors CTE Administrators Work-Based Learning Coordinators Postsecondary Instructors

10:00am CDT

Pathway to Energy Systems Technology

Tuesday June 10, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am CDT

Diamond 3

Omaha Northwest High spent the last four years transitioning from a traditional wood and metal shop to a co-taught dual enrolled Energy Systems Technology program with Metropolitan Community College. Learn about our journey, pitfalls, and successes as we built our programming.

Speakers

Teresa Bender

Curriculum Specialist, Omaha Public Schools

Todd Wesslund

Tuesday June 10, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
Diamond 3

Administrators Skilled and Technical Sciences CTE Administrators

10:00am CDT

Driving CTE Engagement in Nebraska: Honoring Tradition & Embracing Transition

Tuesday June 10, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am CDT

Ruby 5

In this session, educators will gain strategies to help 6th-12th grade students explore CTE pathways aligned with their career interests through Nebraska Career Connections. Participants will learn how to integrate work-based learning opportunities and hands-on CTE experiences to build relevant skills and prepare students for postsecondary careers. By the end of the session, educators will be equipped to guide students through a process that connects their academic learning to future career success using Nebraska Career Connections.

Speakers

John Milroy

Vice President of Partner Solutions, Kuder

Sarah Wilson

Tuesday June 10, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
Ruby 5

Administrators School Counselors CTE Administrators Work-Based Learning Coordinators

11:00am CDT

Prime Time for Pathways

Tuesday June 10, 2025 11:00am - 11:45pm CDT

Diamond 4

Out of School Time hours are untapped goldmines for aligning education with workforce needs. Learn how to use this time to create programs that equip students with the skills employers demand.

Speakers

Dr. Joe DiCostanzo

Vice President, Education, Nebraska Children and Families Foundation

Dr. Joe DiCostanzo is a distinguished leader with extensive national and local experience in education, policy, and community engagement. Currently serving as the Vice President of Education at the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation, Joe spearheads the "Together Better Initiative... Read More →

Tuesday June 10, 2025 11:00am - 11:45pm CDT
Diamond 4

Administrators CTE Administrators Work-Based Learning Coordinators

11:00am CDT

Student-Driven Social Media Marketing

Tuesday June 10, 2025 11:00am - 11:45pm CDT

Diamond 1

Every school has a story to tell, and social media is the most powerful tool to share it.

But what if students took the lead?

This session will explore how educators can integrate social media marketing into the classroom, empowering students to create content, analyze engagement data, and refine strategies—just like real-world marketers.

We’ll dive into:

✔ Content Creation – Teaching students to produce engaging videos, graphics, and copy.
✔ Analytics & Strategy – Using real-time metrics (views, engagement, impressions) to measure success.
✔ Branding & Consistency – Developing templates and guidelines for school-wide social media identity.

From highlighting student achievements to promoting events and boosting community engagement, this session will provide actionable strategies to help educators connect media education with career-ready skills in digital marketing.

Speakers

Nathan Ladehoff

Danielle Schaf

Director of Marketing, Striv Education

Tuesday June 10, 2025 11:00am - 11:45pm CDT
Diamond 1

Cross Career Field Business Marketing and Management CTE Administrators Work-Based Learning Coordinators

11:00am CDT

Using Icing Images Edible Printer in a WBL Class

Tuesday June 10, 2025 11:00am - 11:45pm CDT

Ruby 3

Come see how the students at a D2 school are incorporating an edible printing machine to gain WBL experiences. Meridian Public School (with a 7-12 population of 100 students) is the only school in Nebraska that has an Icing Images printing machine. Students are able to incorporate their baking skills and WBL skills by creating images and printing them on food items to sell in our school and community.

Speakers

Kim Peters

FCS Teacher, Meridian Public School ESU 5

Tuesday June 10, 2025 11:00am - 11:45pm CDT
Ruby 3

Human Sciences and Education (FCS) Administrators CTE Administrators Work-Based Learning Coordinators Postsecondary Instructors

1:00pm CDT

VR in Agriculture

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Diamond 8

Learn about the opportunities to use VR simulators and 360 video in your classroom. There will be free applications demonstrated and good practices will be covered when teaching with this technology.

Speakers

Amy Kohtz

Teacher, Friend Public School

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Diamond 8

Agriculture Food and Natural Resources CTE Administrators

1:00pm CDT

CTE Grant Administration

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Ruby 2

In this session, CTE Administrator will have an opportunity to collaborate and receive information regarding CTE programming and grant administration.

Speakers

Sydney Kobza

Assistant Director of Career and Technical Education, Nebraska Department of Education

Amanda Cole

Dr. Katie Graham

Teri Sloup

Perkins Grant Manager, Nebraska Department of Education

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Ruby 2

CTE Administrators

1:00pm CDT

ProStart Nebraska

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Ruby 4

Discuss and show the benefits of using ProStart in the Classroom.

Speakers

Craig Casados

Michael Kosalka

Coordinator, ProStart Nebraska

Tuesday June 10, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Ruby 4

Human Sciences and Education (FCS) CTE Administrators Administrators

2:00pm CDT

JAG Nebraska's Employer Engagement Model

Tuesday June 10, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT

Ruby 4

Conference attendees are invited to learn about JAG Nebraska's tiered approach to employer engagement. Discover how employer partnerships are leveraged to create meaningful on- and off-campus engagement opportunities, helping students explore and define their career paths.

Speakers

Jessi Hedlund

Sr. Manager Strategic Partnerships, United Way of the Midlands- JAG Nebraska

Tuesday June 10, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Ruby 4

Administrators School Counselors CTE Administrators Work-Based Learning Coordinators

2:00pm CDT

Trades Tuesdays

Tuesday June 10, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT

Diamond 1

Inviting Local Businesses and Industry professionals to share what they do and how they do it makes career connections meaningful. I would like to share the successes that I have experienced through building a day each week that I call "Trades Tuesdays". Each week we host a new business and industry participant to present to my classes. The presentations are fun, interactive, educational and help bridge the gap between our students making future career decisions and those in the local community who are looking for future prospects. Students get to hear about careers from folks who really take pride in what they do and can express what employability means. We will also use this time to discuss and collaborate strategies that could help other teachers adapt days like this into their curriculum as well.

Speakers

Roger Campbell

STS Instructor, Papillion LaVista South High School

Skills USA Advisor with over 20 years in the organization.Served 4 terms on the Nebraska Board of Directors30+ years Teaching Skilled & Technical Sciences at Papillion LaVista South High SchoolConstruction Trades and Woods Manufacturing (emphasis)Proudly Serving, Guiding and Inspiring... Read More →

Tuesday June 10, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Diamond 1

Agriculture Food and Natural Resources Skilled and Technical Sciences CTE Administrators Work-Based Learning Coordinators Postsecondary Instructors

2:00pm CDT

CTE Grant Administration

Tuesday June 10, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT

Ruby 2

In this session, CTE Administrator will have an opportunity to collaborate and receive information regarding CTE programming and grant administration.

Speakers

Sydney Kobza

Assistant Director of Career and Technical Education, Nebraska Department of Education

Amanda Cole

Dr. Katie Graham

Teri Sloup

Perkins Grant Manager, Nebraska Department of Education

Tuesday June 10, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Ruby 2

CTE Administrators

9:00am CDT

Teaching Students to Be A+ Organizational Citizens

Wednesday June 11, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am CDT

Diamond 5

In today’s fast-paced and collaborative workplaces, success is no longer measured solely by technical skills or individual performance but by one’s ability to contribute positively to the organization as a whole. This session explores how educators can cultivate the values, attitudes, and behaviors necessary for students to become exemplary organizational citizens in their future careers.
We will discuss strategies to embed organizational citizenship concepts—such as teamwork, adaptability, ethical decision-making, and proactive problem-solving—into the classroom experience. Participants will leave with actionable teaching methods and resources to inspire students to lead with integrity, act responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to their current and future organizations.

Speakers

Dr. Jenny Murnane-Rainey

Associate Professor of Management and Strategy, Midland University

Nick Schreck

Dean, School of Business, Midland University

My name is Nick and I teach digital marketing at Midland University. I love experiential learning, edtech, marketing, and helping students make connections in business. I've been married to my wife, Katie, for 10 years. We have two kids, live in Arlington, NE and have a fur-filled... Read More →

Wednesday June 11, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Diamond 5

Business Marketing and Management CTE Administrators Work-Based Learning Coordinators

9:00am CDT

The Basics of Behavior Management

Wednesday June 11, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am CDT

Ruby 2

This session will focus on simple essentials to make sure that your classroom runs as smoothly as it can based on the procedures and routines you set up within your classroom/lab area.

Speakers

Jaclyn Long

FCS Teacher, Columbus High School - Columbus Public Schools

Wednesday June 11, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Ruby 2

Cross Career Field Agriculture Food and Natural Resources Business Marketing and Management Communication and Information Systems Human Sciences and Education (FCS) Health Sciences Skilled and Technical Sciences CTE Administrators

9:00am CDT

The Trucking Industry for the Next Generation

Wednesday June 11, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am CDT

Diamond 7

The NTA works with Nebraska schools to introduce careers in the trucking industry. Our outreach team brings innovative, hands-on tools to help students experience truck driving and diesel technology. We also pair our experiences with safety presentations, helping student drivers learn the safest ways to share the road with commercial vehicles. We work with educators to meet needs of our schools where they are. We can participate in career fairs or spend a day (or more) with trade classes to illustrate the impact and importance of trucking and safety to students. Our program is flexible enough to meet the needs of schools/classes at any time.

Speakers

Kent Grisham

President/CEO, Nebraska Trucking Association

Tracey Grisham

Wednesday June 11, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am CDT
Diamond 7

Skilled and Technical Sciences Administrators CTE Administrators

10:00am CDT

Sustainable Funding Tips for your FFA/AgEd Program

Wednesday June 11, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am CDT

Diamond 8

Are you tired of having limited financial resources for your student organization or classroom? Are you tired of making the CTE organization's sell outside companies candy, fruit or bread? Are you building long term supporters or just selling outside companies overpriced items to support "kids"? Learn strategies and tips to create successful, easy to implement, long term funding strategies for your CTE program.

Speakers

Stacey Agnew

Executive Director, Nebraska FFA Foundation

Victoria Broders

Kyla Habrock

Wednesday June 11, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am CDT
Diamond 8

Agriculture Food and Natural Resources CTE Administrators

11:00am CDT

Making an advisory committee work for you

Wednesday June 11, 2025 11:00am - 11:45am CDT

Diamond 7

An advisory committee is a group of business, industry, community and school-related people who help you keep your program on track. With appropriate management, it can provide both guidance and support. This session will help you learn how to use your advisory committee to develop, design and deliver a quality program.

Speakers

Stacie Turnbull

Regional faculty, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Stacie Turnbull, Ph.D., has a long background in formal and non-formal education agriculture education, from 4-H leader and classroom instructor to serving as Nebraska State Director of Agriculture Education. Stacie currently provides support to secondary agriculture educators as... Read More →

Wednesday June 11, 2025 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Diamond 7

Agriculture Food and Natural Resources Business Marketing and Management Communication and Information Systems Human Sciences and Education (FCS) Health Sciences Skilled and Technical Sciences CTE Administrators

11:00am CDT

Empowering Competitive Success in FBLA

Wednesday June 11, 2025 11:00am - 11:45am CDT

Diamond 4

Are you ready to excel in FBLA competitive events? Designed specifically for FBLA advisers, this session will guide you through the process of preparing students for success in a variety of competitive events. You'll learn how to set ambitious goals, develop winning strategies, and lead with confidence. We'll cover tips for effective preparation and classroom integration. Get ready to turn student dreams into reality and lead your teams to victory!

Speakers

Lois Hixson

Competitive Events Coordinator, Nebraska FBLA

Wednesday June 11, 2025 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Diamond 4

Business Marketing and Management Communication and Information Systems CTE Administrators Postsecondary Instructors

11:00am CDT

Backpack to Briefcase: Career Ready Students

Wednesday June 11, 2025 11:00am - 11:45am CDT

Ruby 5

How will you prepare your students with the skills they need to be successful beyond high school? How can you educate them about and inspire them to pursue different career paths? Educators will receive access to FREE student-driven digital resources that will give students the skills they need to be successful now and beyond high school. They’ll learn about different career pathways, financial literacy, how to be an entrepreneur and other soft skills. Self-graded assessments are built into the program and the content aligns to state standards.

Speakers

Jacky Marino

Education Success Specialist, Everfi

Jacky Marino is an implementation specialist for EVERFI based in Omaha, NE. She grew up on Amelia Island, FL, and graduated from Florida State University with a BA in Theater and Communications. Her passion for performing initially landed her in Omaha working as a teaching artist... Read More →

Wednesday June 11, 2025 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Ruby 5

Cross Career Field Business Marketing and Management School Counselors CTE Administrators