I am honored to serve as Executive Director for the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS); the finest Career and Technical Education program in Connecticut. For over 100 years, this school system has prepared high school students and adult learners with the skills to be successful in high-demand technical careers, while equipping Connecticut business and industry with a talented workforce to support economic growth. I am proud to be a part of that story.

For 30 years I have worked in a variety of education roles. Most recently, I served as Superintendent of Bristol Public Schools where I was directly involved in the development and implementation of the district’s career partnership with business and industry in the city of Bristol, as well as a successful school-to-work career pathways program. Through this experience I observed how opportunities in the skilled-trades can transform the lives of students by setting them up for a living-wage career. I am excited to learn more about the opportunities CTECS offers.

I believe that educational leaders are in the business of serving people first. Student growth, achievement and outcomes do not happen without a solid school foundation built on trust, seamless and open dialogue, and the willingness to engage in critical conversations. As such, over the coming months I’ll be spending my days in classrooms with students, meeting with CTECS staff, and getting to know our business and industry partners so that I can continue to support the growth of this school system.

Thank you for your continued support of CTECS’ nearly 11,500 high school students and adult learners. I look forward to a rewarding school year together.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ellen Solek
Executive Director of Schools
Connecticut Technical Education and Career System

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