Educational Specialist

The Applied Professional Education Experience (APEX) Specialist is a highly visible, hands-on role for a self-directed professional. This individual is responsible for the development and maintenance of strategic industry partnerships, project management, and innovative program development within a specified region of the state. The role leads efforts to strengthen industry engagement within local education agencies (LEA) in the region, operating independently while networking across both industry and educational structures. The primary focus of this role is to bridge the gap between education and industry through: Establishing and expanding partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and educational institutions to provide authentic, profession-based learning experiences. Leading the full lifecycle of real-world industry projects, from identifying LEA needs to final execution. Collaborate closely with CTE Directors, LEA work-based learning coordinators and APEX Center administrators to align resources and reduce program conflict. Plan, organize, and execute various events, including workshops, seminars, networking events, job fairs, and advisory boards Organize and facilitate educational field trips, including visits to local businesses, industry partners, educational opportunities, and competitions to complement course content and provide real-world exposure for students Coordinate with external venues, ensuring all safety, educational, and compliance objectives are met Coordinate with postsecondary institutions within the region, including managing concurrent enrollment processes for applicable courses Facilitate advisory boards within the region Execute stakeholder engagement activities to build community support Promote professions-based learning with LEAs not currently implementing it Participate in the APEX Grant Program community of practice