Dr. Sandra Adams, Ph.D.
CTE Professional Development Consultant | Published Author | National Speaker
📧 Email: sandraadams.cte@gmail.com
đź”— LinkedIn: Connect with Dr. Adams
About Dr. Adams
Dr. Sandra Adams is a nationally recognized Career & Technical Education expert, consultant, and published author dedicated to transforming CTE classrooms through literacy, leadership, and authentic work-based learning. With decades of experience in CTE instruction, administration, and professional development, she brings a unique combination of industry expertise and classroom-tested strategies to her consulting practice.
As the author of multiple books for CTE educators and a sought-after keynote speaker, Dr. Adams helps schools and districts nationwide:
- Embed Literacy in CTE — Practical strategies that honor hands-on learning while building student language skills
- Build High-Functioning PLCs — Transform CTE teams from logistics-focused meetings to collaborative learning communities
- Design Work-Based Learning — Create authentic, industry-aligned instruction that prepares students for real careers
- Strengthen CTE Leadership — Instructional coaching and program improvement aligned to Perkins V goals
Professional Background
Current Roles
- CTE Professional Development Consultant — Private Practice
- Administrator, Career Academy, Fort Wayne Community Schools: 2021–present
- Administration Division Vice President, ACTE (Association for Career and Technical Education)
Previous Experience
- CTE Instructional Coach, Career Academy, Fort Wayne Community Schools: 2014–2021
- Race to the Top (RttT) Lead Presenter, Ohio Department of Education: 2007–2014
- Adjunct Professor, Wright State University: 2006–2012
- Social Studies Curriculum Consultant, Ohio Department of Education: 2004–2006
Education
- Ph.D. — Indiana State University
- M.Ed. — Bowling Green State University
- B.S.Ed. — University of Toledo
CTE Speaking & Professional Development
Dr. Adams is a dynamic keynote speaker and workshop facilitator specializing in Career & Technical Education professional development:
National CTE Presentations
- VISION Conference Presenter: 2017–2022
- STEM is CTE Symposium Presenter: 2018
- Future of Education Technology Conference Lead Presenter: 2018
Regional & State CTE Presentations
- Region I Conference Keynote Speaker: 2022
- Region III Conference Presenter: 2017–19
- Ohio, Indiana, Missouri, and Alaska ACTE Conference Presenter
CTE Leadership & Contributions
Dr. Adams is deeply committed to advancing Career & Technical Education nationwide:
- Inclusion, Access, Equity and Diversity Mentorship Program Mentor: 2020–21
- Techniques Writer: 2018–present
- CTE Learn Course Creator: Developed four professional development courses for CTE educators
- National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity Member: 2019–present
My Approach to CTE Professional Development
CTE is different—and professional learning should be too. My approach honors:
- Industry expertise — CTE instructors are industry experts, and professional development should respect that knowledge
- Hands-on learning environments — Students learn best by doing real work that mirrors industry practice
- Embedded literacy — Literacy grows when it’s woven into instruction, not bolted on as an afterthought
- The realities of CTE classrooms — This is not generic PD; this is instruction designed for how CTE actually works
The result? Stronger instruction. Stronger teams. Stronger outcomes for students.
Let’s Build What’s Next in CTE
Ready to transform your CTE program? Book a complimentary discovery call to discuss workshops, consulting, or ongoing professional development support.
Whether you need a keynote speaker, PLC coaching, literacy strategies, or Perkins V alignment—you don’t need another initiative. You need instruction that works.