About me
Career and technical education (CTE) and artificial intelligence (AI) have been central themes throughout Michael’s career. For nearly two decades as a secondary educator, Michael served as a CTE instructor specializing in computer programming, networking, repair, and related technology fields. During this time, he also held leadership roles as an assistant principal, principal, and district administrator, where he focused on closing achievement gaps while ensuring students had meaningful opportunities to pursue their career aspirations through successful educational pathways. In his subsequent roles within the offices of Community Colleges, Academic Affairs, Student Success, and Access & Success as the Assistant Vice Chancellor at the College System of Tennessee, Michael worked with more than 50 institutions of higher education, supporting the success of over 200,000 students annually. His work has consistently centered on improving student persistence, completion, access & success for all students, regardless of individual characteristics. A key focus of his work has been researching and then implementing how technology and increasingly AI, can be leveraged to enhance student outcomes and prepare learners for the future workforce. Michael has received national recognition for his contributions to education and has served in leadership roles with multiple nonprofit organizations. His service has included positions such as President, Program Chair, Executive Committee member, Chair of Public Policy, plus others, where he has helped shape initiatives that advance educational success and workforce development opportunities. Michael has long been drawn to research and national organizations whose missions are grounded in promoting student achievement, career success, and excellence in career and technical education, while also recognizing the critical role of research and policy in shaping educational opportunities. As Michael often states, “At the core of my work is advocating for those whose voices are often unheard.” He believes that continued research and organizations dedicated to supporting career and technical education play a vital role in strengthening student success and workforce development. Whether through professional development for educators, technical assistance, or access to emerging technologies and equipment, research and partner organizations create pathways that help both students and educators thrive. This commitment to advancing student success and workforce development is what drives Michael’s active involvement in research and participation through professional & nonprofit organizations.
