What can a former SpaceX Welding Supervisor teach us about the future of Career & Technical Education? In this episode, Juan Hernandez shares his journey from immigrating to the United States and learning welding on the job to helping build rockets at SpaceX and now Blue Origin. Along the way, we explore how craftsmanship, work ethic, ownership, and lifelong learning can create opportunities far beyond what most students imagine.

As part of the 2026 Black in CTE Series celebrating both CTE Month and Black History Month, this episode highlights representation, workforce alignment, and industry-recognized credentials like the FAA Part 107 drone certification.

In Episode 72 of the Global CTE Podcast Sylvester sits down with his mother, Darlene Gibson, to explore what Career and Technical Education looks like when it truly works. From discovering her calling at age 12 to building a 40 plus year career in cosmetology, entrepreneurship, and education, Darlene shares how skill, confidence, and relationships create lasting opportunity.

Topics Covered: -The Power of Youth Development -Honoring All Career Pathways Effective Collaboration and Partnerships

A thought-provoking discussion on the transformative potential of Competency-Base Education (CBE).