Michelle Wiseman, Edwards County High School Agriculture Teacher and FFA Advisor, participated in a three-day advocacy event as part of hundreds of career and technical education (CTE) professionals and learners who gathered at the Association for Career and Technical Education’s (ACTE) 2026 National Policy Seminar from March 22-25 in Arlington, VA. During this collaborative and insightful event, Wiseman attended sessions on the latest news in education policy and celebrated the organization’s 100th anniversary. She also met with policymakers on Capitol Hill to educate them about the value of CTE for learners in Southern Illinois. While attending the National Policy Seminar, Wiseman visited with Lauren Kaldenberg in Representative Mike Bost’s office, Keelan Rice in Senator Tammy Duckworth’s office, and Rolance Yun and Owen Doherty in Senator Dick Durbin’s office to encourage strong and informed federal support for CTE and other education and workforce development programs. “What a great experience to advocate for agricultural education in our nation’s capital! This experience will forever shape my work with students and our legislators in the future,” says Wiseman.
On March 24th, eight career and technical student organizations (CTSOs) participated in a reception hosted by the Senate Career and Technical Education Caucus to celebrate the work of the CTE students across the country and demonstrate how CTSOs provide students opportunities to develop leadership and career skills and engage in community service through CTE. The reception showcased remarks from students representing each CTSO, including Business Professionals of America (BPA); DECA; Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA); Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA); HOSA-Future Health Professionals; the National FFA Organization; SkillsUSA; and the Technology Student Association (TSA). Students from each of these organizations shared more information about their work and their personal and academic journeys.
Earlier in the day, attendees also heard from key congressional staff who provided their unique perspectives on pressing education and workforce issues. To ensure a skilled workforce for the modern economy, robust federal support and investment in CTE is critical. Michelle Wiseman worked hard this week to advocate for and support CTE at the federal level, ensuring that students, families, and communities can continue to thrive through the benefits and experiences forged in CTE.
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities.
PHOTO PICTURED L TO R: Michelle Wiseman (Agriculture Educator at Edwards County High School), Holly Camerano (EFE 100 System Director), Keelan Rice (staffer in Senator Tammy Duckworth’s office), Alicia Cook (WILCO Principal/Assistant Director), and Demetra Striglos (Agriculture Educator at The Andreas Academy, Decatur)