Missouri Career Pathways
Empowering Missouri Students for High-Demand Careers
Missouri Career Pathways is a statewide initiative that strengthens the connection between education and the workforce to help students graduate ready for high-skill, high-wage careers. Through regional partnerships with schools, employers, and postsecondary institutions, the initiative supports the design and implementation of career-connected learning systems that reflect Missouri’s labor market needs.
The work done by Career Pathways ensures that student learning is relevant, applied, and aligned to the skills required in high-demand industries. This includes helping districts develop programs of study, engage with local employers, and implement real-world learning strategies across the P–20 continuum.
Aligned with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Show-Me Success goals, Career Pathways operates across nine regions, in collaboration with state agencies, postsecondary institutions, employers, and community leaders. Many of these efforts focus on preparing students for opportunities in high demand and emerging career fields.
Our Work in Career Pathways
The Career Pathways team leads Missouri’s efforts to expand access to meaningful, career-connected learning experiences. Our work supports students, educators, and industry partners through the following key initiatives:
Pathways for Teachers Grants – Places educators, counselors, administrators directly into local business, helping them bring industry aligned skills back into the classroom.
Registered Youth Apprenticeship (RYA) – Expanded personalized work-based learning opportunities that provide students with real-world experience, industry-recognized credentials, and pathways to long-term career success.
Top Drone Academy – Top Drone Academy equips Missouri educators with the training and credentials needed to integrate drone technology into instruction, advance Career Pathways programs, and support workforce readiness through emerging technologies.
Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP) – Support statewide implementation to ensure every student graduates with a clear, personalized plan for postsecondary and career readiness.
Partnership Work in Career Pathways
Show-Me Careers – Coordinated with the Missouri Chamber of Commerce these events break down barriers between business and education to bring influential educators,counselors, administrators into Missouri’s businesses. Show-me Careers Experience | Missouri Chamber of Commerce
Health Care Career Day – Introduce students to Missouri’s growing healthcare sector through an intensive virtual event. This program is in partnership with Missouri Chamber of Commerce, and the Missouri Hospital Association. Health Care Career Day | Missouri Chamber
Manufacturing Day – Connect students to high-tech manufacturing careers through statewide events and industry engagement.
STEM at the Capitol Day – Highlight student-led innovation and raise awareness of STEM education’s impact among policymakers.
Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP) – Support statewide implementation to ensure every student graduates with a clear, personalized plan for postsecondary and career readiness.
- Pathways for Teacher Services
Connecting Educators to Employers
Contact your Regional Career Pathways Consultant to:
- Host a Pathways for Teachers Experience
- Apply for a Pathways for Teachers Grant
- Support Work-Based Learning
- Promote the Individual Career & Academic Plan (ICAP)
What Are Pathways for Teachers Experiences
Where Education Meets Workforce
Pathways for Teachers is a key work-based learning strategy within Missouri Career Pathways. These professional learning experiences place educators, teachers, counselors, and administrators, into local businesses aligned with their subject areas. Through up to 120 hours of structured externship, participants observe real-world technologies, workplace practices, and job functions to bring industry-relevant insights back into the classroom.
These experiences empower educators to:
- Strengthen alignment between instruction and workforce expectations
- Reinforce the value of employability skills and career-connected learning
- Support students in developing postsecondary transition plans and earning Industry Recognized Credentials (IRCs)
- Build pathways into Registered Youth Apprenticeship (RYA) opportunities
Educators design lesson plans, projects, or curriculum enhancements based on their externship experiences and present their learning to school leadership and peers. Districts may apply for Pathways for Teachers Grant funding to support participation in Pathways for Teachers experiences.
Learn More About Our Pathways for Teachers Grants?
Get Connected to a Career Pathways Consultant
- Meet the Career Pathways Consultant Team
Linda Stinson | Career Pathways Manager, Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Linda Stinson serves as the Career Pathways Manager for the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). In this statewide leadership role, she oversees the implementation of Missouri Career Pathways across eight regions, guiding a team of Regional Career Pathway Consultants and driving initiatives that align education with workforce needs.
With a strong background in Career and Technical Education, workforce development, and educator support, Linda leads efforts to expand work-based learning, grow Certified Educator Externship opportunities, and strengthen pathways into high-wage, high-demand careers. She also provides strategic oversight of Missouri’s Registered Youth Apprenticeship (RYA) initiative, ensuring alignment between secondary education, postsecondary partners, and industry.
Linda holds a Bachelor of Arts from College of the Ozarks, a Master’s in Education from Quincy University, and an Education Specialist in Learning Technologies and Design from the University of Missouri–Columbia. She is currently a Doctoral Candidate in P–20 and Community Leadership at Murray State University. Known for her collaborative leadership and innovative vision, Linda is committed to helping Missouri students graduate “success ready” by equipping educators and communities with the tools to build real-world, career-connected learning systems.
Laura McVay | Career Pathways Consultant, Region 1 (Southeast)
Laura McVay serves as the Career Pathways Consultant for Region 1, based at the Southeast Regional Professional Development Center in Cape Girardeau. She works with schools and regional partners to support the development of aligned, high-impact career pathways that reflect Missouri’s evolving workforce needs.
With more than 30 years of experience in Career and Technical Education (CTE), Laura has held leadership roles as a CTE coordinator, area school director, and program developer. She served as director at both Sikeston Career and Technology Center and Waynesville Career Center, where she secured over $4 million in enhancement grants and led facility and program expansion initiatives. She has also taught beginning teacher courses in CTE at the University of Central Missouri.
A former two-term president of the Missouri Association of Career and Technical Education (MOACTE), Laura continues to advocate for high-quality CTE programming and student leadership development. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Speech from Murray State University, a Master’s in Practical Arts and Vocational-Technical Education from the University of Missouri–Columbia, and an Education Specialist degree from William Woods University.
Roberta Carson | Career Pathways Consultant, Region 2 (Heart of MO) and Region 9 (Central)
Roberta Carson serves as the Career Pathways Consultant for Regions 2 and 9, supporting Mid-Missouri districts and career centers. Since joining the Missouri Career Pathways team in 2015, she has worked closely with educators, administrators, and community partners to expand student access to high-quality career-connected learning.
With more than 30 years of experience in education, Roberta has served as a high school English teacher, counselor, and technical center advisor. She has led career guidance initiatives, implemented student plans of study, and collaborated with regional economic development leaders to introduce workforce-aligned programs. Her work has consistently focused on creating hands-on learning opportunities for both students and educators, particularly in STEM fields,to strengthen classroom-to-career connections.
Roberta holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Education in Educational and Counseling Psychology. Deeply rooted in Mid-Missouri, she is passionate about preparing students for success through strong community and industry partnerships.
Dr. Elaine Metcalf | Career Pathways Consultant, Region 3 (Kansas City Area)
Dr. Elaine Metcalf serves as the Career Pathways Consultant for Region 3, supporting the Kansas City area. She joined the Missouri Career Pathways team in January 2024 and brings a deep background in Career and Technical Education (CTE) leadership, workforce development, and collaborative innovation.
Elaine served as principal of Summit Technology Academy in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, and played a key leadership role in the development of the Missouri Innovation Campus, a nationally recognized model of secondary-postsecondary-industry partnership. Her work reflects a commitment to mobilizing communities and inspiring educational change that connects students with real-world, career-aligned learning opportunities. Dr. Metcalf is known for fostering strong partnerships across sectors and leading initiatives in college and career readiness, STEM education, and youth engagement.
Dr. Metcalf holds a Master of Art and Bachelor of Science in Business Education from Truman State University, Education Specialist degree in School Administration from University of Central Missouri, and a Doctorate in Education from William Woods University in Education Administration.
Mike Bolle | Career Pathways Consultant, Region 4 (Northeast)
Mike Bolle serves as the Career Pathways Consultant for Region 4, supporting 17 counties in Northeast Missouri. In this role, he collaborates with schools, postsecondary institutions, and regional employers to build innovative, student-centered career pathways that align with workforce demands.
Mike brings over 15 years of experience in Student and Academic Affairs, including extensive work in career advising, faculty collaboration, and employer engagement. He has facilitated career fairs, guided college students through the career decision-making process, and helped educators embed career readiness into their curriculum. His work consistently emphasizes real-world application, creativity, and innovation in education.
Mike holds a Master of Arts from Truman State University and is actively involved with workforce and community development organizations. He is committed to helping students across Northeast Missouri become “success ready,” regardless of the path they choose.
Jackie Marling | Career Pathways Consultant, Region 6 (South Central)
Jackie Marling serves as the Career Pathways Consultant for Region 6, supporting 13 counties in South Central Missouri. In this role, she collaborates with schools, educators, and industry partners to promote career-connected learning and expand pathway opportunities aligned to regional workforce needs.
With a background in business education, Jackie taught Personal Finance, Accounting, and Medical Office Technology during her tenure with the Rolla School District and Rolla Technical Institute/Center. She also has experience in financial services and brings a strong emphasis on employability skills and practical application in the classroom. Jackie has served as a Career Advisor since 2017 and joined the Career Pathways team in 2022.
Jackie holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Education from Missouri State University and a Master’s in Secondary Education with an emphasis in Business from the University of Missouri–St. Louis. Jackie is passionate about exposing students to a wide range of career clusters early in their education and supporting educators in building high-impact, workforce-aligned instruction.
Laura Harris | Career Pathways Consultant, Region 7 (Southwest)
Laura Harris serves as the Career Pathways Consultant for Region 7, based in Springfield. In this role, she supports schools and educators in expanding career-connected learning, aligning programs of study with regional workforce needs, and integrating student-focused career readiness strategies.
With over 30 years of experience in education, Laura has served as a choral music educator, International Baccalaureate counselor, and career counselor. She brings extensive experience in implementing Missouri’s Comprehensive Guidance and Counseling Program, facilitating postsecondary planning, and helping students connect learning to real-world career goals. Her leadership has included mentoring new counselors, coordinating college access programs, and supporting students through rigorous academic pathways.
Laura holds a Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Missouri–Kansas City and a Master of Science in Guidance and Counseling from Missouri State University. She is passionate about helping students find purpose through education and is committed to supporting counselors and educators across the region.
Dr. Dawn Richards, EdD | Career Pathways Consultant, Region 8 (St. Louis Area)Dr. Dawn Richards serves as the Career Pathways Consultant for Region 8, supporting the St. Louis metropolitan area. In this role, she partners with school districts, postsecondary institutions, and employers to design and implement career-connected learning systems that align with regional workforce needs.
With over 20 years of experience in education, Dr. Richards previously served as a high school business education teacher and held multiple school leadership roles, including chair of the instructional leadership team and building improvement committee. She is deeply committed to expanding postsecondary and career awareness for students and equipping educators with tools to guide meaningful career exploration.
Dr. Richards holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Fisk University, a Master’s in Educational Administration from Lindenwood University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Maryville University.
- Related Links
- Registered Youth Apprenticeship Services (RYA)
- Meet the Registered Youth Apprenticeship (RYA) Consultant Team
The Missouri Registered Youth Apprenticeship (RYA) initiative is supported by a team of dedicated consultants who work in partnership with schools, employers, and community organizations to build high-quality, work-based learning opportunities for students ages 16 to 24. Each consultant brings deep experience in education, workforce development, and employer engagement, helping to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world career pathways.
Together, the RYA team supports the expansion of Missouri’s youth apprenticeship programs by fostering regional collaboration, aligning instruction with labor market needs, and ensuring that students across the state graduate with skills, experiences, and credentials that prepare them for long-term success.
Linda Stinson | Career Pathways Manager, Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Linda Stinson serves as the Career Pathways Manager for the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), where she leads statewide efforts to align education with workforce needs through initiatives such as Registered Youth Apprenticeship (RYA) and Certified Educator Externships.
Linda supports the development and coordination of Missouri’s RYA initiative by working closely with regional consultants, schools, and employers to expand high-quality apprenticeship opportunities for students ages 16–24. She helps ensure that apprenticeship programs are aligned with labor market needs, offer meaningful credentials, and connect directly to Missouri’s broader work-based learning and career pathway efforts.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts from College of the Ozarks, a Master’s in Education from Quincy University, and an Education Specialist in Learning Technologies and Design from the University of Missouri–Columbia. She is currently a Doctoral Candidate in P–20 and Community Leadership at Murray State University, where her research focuses on integrating registered youth apprenticeships and emerging technologies into career-connected learning systems.
Clara Liles | Northwest & Kansas City | Registered Youth Apprenticeship Consultant
Clara Liles joined the RYA team at the Kansas City Regional Professional Development Center in 2024. She brings experience in both business and mathematics education, having previously served in the St. Joseph School District. Clara works to expand apprenticeship opportunities for youth ages 16–24 by fostering strong partnerships with local employers.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in marketing from Missouri Western State University and earned her teaching certificate and Master’s in Education from Avila University. Clara has held National Board Certification in Skilled and Technical Sciences since 2008 and is passionate about connecting workforce and education through relationship-building and program innovation.
Angela Fadness | Northeast & Central | Registered Youth Apprenticeship Consultant
Angela Fadness joined the DESE Registered Youth Apprenticeship team in July 2024, bringing over 20 years of experience in education. With a strong background in alternative education and special education, Angie is known for her commitment to supporting diverse learning needs and building practical career pathways for students.
For more than a decade, Angie coordinated onsite work-based learning programs at MBS Textbook Exchange and the Harry S. Truman Veterans’ Hospital. Her work created impactful transition experiences that helped students explore postsecondary options and gain foundational workforce skills. She now brings that same passion to expanding apprenticeship opportunities for youth across Missouri.
Nancy Pfeiffer | St. Louis & Surrounding Area | Registered Youth Apprenticeship Consultant
Nancy Pfeiffer supports member districts by connecting schools with local businesses, chambers of commerce, and the Department of Labor to expand youth apprenticeship opportunities and address Missouri’s workforce skills gap. She brings over 20 years of experience in education, including roles as a DECA Advisor, Internship Program Coordinator, and Department Chair.
With a background in sales and marketing in the glass container industry, Nancy combines industry knowledge with classroom experience to create meaningful career pathways for students. She is passionate about helping students gain early exposure to the workplace and envision their future while still in high school.
Betty Glasgow | Southwest | Registered Youth Apprenticeship Consultant
Betty Glasgow brings over 30 years of experience in Career and Technical Education, with a focus on Family and Consumer Sciences and culinary arts. Prior to joining the RYA team in 2023, she developed and led BoMO Works, a school-based registered youth apprenticeship and internship program in Bolivar, Missouri.
Betty has worked closely with employers, chambers of commerce, and economic development leaders to help students gain paid, on-the-job training in fields such as health care, automotive, education, and manufacturing. She is especially passionate about growing the teacher workforce through innovative “grow your own” apprenticeship models in early childhood and elementary education.
Dr. Jim Pritchett | South Central & Southeast | Registered Youth Apprenticeship Consultant
Dr. Jim Pritchett brings over 32 years of experience in education, including 18 years in educational administration. He is a respected leader in career and technical education (CTE), known for his commitment to student success and for creating meaningful, real-world learning environments.
Since joining the RYA team in 2023, Jim has worked to strengthen partnerships between schools and local industries to support high-quality apprenticeship programs. His focus on workforce readiness and regional collaboration helps ensure students gain the skills and experiences they need to succeed beyond high school.
- Top Drone Academy
Empowering Educators to Lead the Future of Drone Technology
Top Drone Academy equips Missouri educators with the knowledge, credentials, and confidence to integrate drone technology into instruction and workforce development. Whether seeking to enhance teaching practices, launch a drone curriculum, or align with industry needs, the Academy offers targeted, career-connected training designed to meet the demands of today’s innovation-driven economy.
Career Pathways Integration
Top Drone Academy supports Missouri’s Career Pathways vision by empowering educators to embed high-demand, real-world skills into instruction. As a work-based learning extension, the Academy builds educator capacity in areas such as Industry Recognized Credentials (IRCs), STEM integration, and Registered Youth Apprenticeship (RYA) program development.
Featured Topics and Emerging Technologies
Conference sessions explore how drones and emerging technologies are transforming instructional strategies across Missouri’s Career Pathways. Educators will gain practical insights for integrating drone applications in agriculture, public safety, construction, engineering, and entrepreneurship. Sessions also address curriculum alignment, FAA certification, and the design of sustainable, industry-relevant programs in schools.
Top Drone Academy Conference
November 17–18, 2025 | Old Kinderhook Resort, Camdenton, MO
Registration Deadline: October 24, 2025Now in its third year, the Top Drone Academy Conference is designed exclusively for educators and workforce leaders shaping Missouri’s next generation of technical training. This two-day event features in-depth workshops, hands-on flight experiences, and peer-led sessions focused on instructional alignment, credential pathways, and program implementation.
Conference sessions will highlight real-world applications of drone technology across Career Pathways—including agriculture, public safety, construction, engineering, and entrepreneurship.
Why Attend?
- Learn from drone professionals, instructional experts, and industry-aligned educators
- Deepen your understanding of FAA certification requirements
- Explore best practices in CTE, STEM, and drone-integrated curriculum design
- Connect with statewide partners and Career Pathways leaders
Conference Sponsors
iCEV · Missouri S&T · Depco · Minds-i · Agri-Spray Drones · Pitsco Education
Top Drone Academy Executive Committee
President: Aaron Panek, Depco
Vice-President: Preston Frazier, Pitsco
Secretary/Treasurer: Marilyn Allen, iCEV
Calee McElwain, iCEV
Marty Pickney, Missouri S&T
Thomas McGovern, St. Louis Community College
Terry Graham, Minds-i
Michael Hartline, Willard High School, JROTC
Hoa Nguyen, Missouri S&T, Multi-Rotor Team
Linda Stinson, Missouri DESE – Career Pathways Manager
Byekwaso Gilbert, Missouri DESE – Director of Engineering & Technology Education
Contact Us
Interested in integrating drones into your instructional strategy or expanding a career-connected program?
Aaron Panek – apanek@depcollc.com | (620) 704-1085
Linda Stinson – Linda.Stinson@dese.mo.gov | (573) 526-4987
Byekwaso Gilbert – Byekwaso.Gilbert@dese.mo.gov | (573) 751-7764