Transforming CTE through Innovative Leadership
With more than 30 years of experience in Career and Technical Education (CTE), Pat Edmunds serves as the Director of the Arkansas Tech Career Center in Russellville, Arkansas. She has embraced her roles as an educational administrator, leader, and mentor with enthusiasm. Pat took a 1972 vo-tech model and revolutionized it by merging with a two-year institution, modernizing programs, integrating industry credentials, and increasing enrollment by an impressive 200%.
Bridging Industry and Education for a Strong Workforce
Pat is committed to fostering real dialogue between educational institutions and industry partners. Under her guidance, the career center has become a hub for conversations about creating a skilled, modern local workforce. Her guiding principle is, “If you’re not improving, you’re backing up.” She currently serves on several boards including the National Council for Local Administrators, the Arkansas Association for Career and Technical Educators, and is a Cabinet Member of the Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce Workforce Development Cabinet.
Accolades and Personal Life
In recognition of her contributions, Pat was named Postsecondary Educator of the Year by Arkansas ACTE in 2022 and ACTE Region IV Postsecondary Professional of the Year in 2023. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of the Ozarks and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Harding University. When not at work, Pat enjoys gardening and traveling to new destinations with her husband, Jerry. They both cherish spending time with their beloved grandchildren.