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RESTON, Virginia, July 25, 2024 – The International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA) has announced the selection of Mark Harrell as Director of its STEM Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL). Harrell joins ITEEA with varied and extensive experiences in multiple technology and engineering education roles.
Mark has been a dynamic force in STEM education, serving as the Engineering Consultant & Kentucky Technology Student Association (TSA) State Advisor within the Office of Career and Technical Education at the Kentucky Department of Education. With a bachelor’s degree in Technology Education from Purdue University and a master’s in Career and Technical Education Administration from Eastern Kentucky University, Mark has dedicated his career to inspiring K-12 students to pursue STEM careers.
Mark's career began at Bryan Station High School in Lexington, KY, where he ignited a love for lifelong STEM learning. He then built one of Kentucky’s top Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Engineering Pathways at Franklin County Career Tech Center. As Franklin County's first District STEM Coordinator, he developed a pioneering STEM curriculum that impacted students from preschool through high school.
His passion for expanding STEM education led him to the role of Director of School Engagement at PLTW, where he tirelessly worked to implement and sustain STEM programs across Kentucky and Tennessee. In his role at the Kentucky Department of Education, Mark advised schools on best practices in Technology and Engineering Education and provided support to the Kentucky Technology Student Association (KYTSA).
Mark was instrumental in revamping the Engineering Technology Education Program, aligning it with industry needs, and securing multiple grants for STEM initiatives. He developed dual credit opportunities to boost college enrollment and retention, and managed the KYTSA annual budget of over $500,000. Finally, over the last several years, Mark fostered ITEEA’s growth in Kentucky as the state joined the Engineering byDesign (EbD) Consortium and trained and equipped Kentucky educators with ITEEA’s EbD curriculum.
Harrell will begin his new role as ITEEA's STEM CTL Director on August 21, 2024. ITEEA Executive Director/CEO, Kelly Dooley, shared, “Mark has developed a strong understanding of ITEEA, the STEM CTL, and EbD in his roles as ITEEA Region 2 Board Director and Kentucky State Consortium Director. During the interview process, it was evident he is a strategic thinker, capable of driving and leading change, and connected to a strong network of educators across the nation. His impressive skills and demonstrated track record of success elevated him to the top of a very strong candidate pool, and ITEEA is lucky to welcome him to our team!”
Residing in Frankfort, KY, with his wife Erin and their two children, Treyton and Elliotte, Mark's dedication to STEM education is unwavering. His passion, vision, and relentless pursuit of excellence continue to inspire students, educators, and communities.
For more information about ITEEA, go to www.iteea.org. Questions can be directed to iteea@iteea.org or 703-860-2100.
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