Advisory Committees

AVTEC maintains Occupational Advisory Committees as well as an Institutional Advisory Committee to help ensure our training remains relevant, effective, and aligned with workforce needs.

Occupational Advisory Committees

Each AVTEC training program is supported by an Occupational Advisory Committee made up of industry professionals. These committees ensure our training reflects current job market needs and provide input on curriculum, industry trends, and equipment needs. Occupational Advisory Committees meet at least once per year to assess program relevance, review graduation requirements, and offer insight into future workforce expectations. Their feedback helps ensure AVTEC graduates are well-prepared for employment in their chosen fields. These committees are essential to keeping AVTEC’s training programs responsive, effective, and connected to the industries we serve.

The Institutional Advisory Committee

The Institutional Advisory Committee provides guidance on AVTEC’s overall mission, strategic direction, and institutional effectiveness. This committee is composed of external members representing Alaska’s business, industry, education, and community organizations. The Institutional Advisory Committee meets at least once a year to review school-wide initiatives, offer feedback on long-term planning, and ensure the institution remains responsive to the needs of Alaska’s workforce and communities. These advisory partnerships play a vital role in maintaining AVTEC’s strong connection to industry, community, and statewide workforce development efforts.

Institutional Advisory Committee Members

Adam Low, Director, T3 Alaska Program
Amanda Sweeting, Executive Director, Seward Chamber of Commerce
Annaleah Karron, College & Career Coordinator, Kenai Peninsula Borough School District
Annette Jones, Vice President, Healthcare & Education of Alaska, GCI
Brian Reggiani, Associate Director of Upward Bound, UAF
Cassidi Cameron, Executive Director, Kenai Peninsula Economic Development District
Chelsea Flint, Community Relations & Engagement Specialist, Hecla Mining Company
Cheryl Siemers, Interim Chancellor, UAA
Conrad Woodhead, CTE & Residential Director, Lower Yukon School District
Demetria Veasy, Assistant Director, State of Alaska Workforce Services/Workforce Development
Dirk Craft, Executive Director, Alaska Workforce Investment Board
Jacob Betts, Director of Engineering, Trident Seafoods
John Crews, Superintendent, Rail & Marine Maintenance, Holland America/Princess Alaska
Justin Schuster, Senior Energy Program Manager, Alaska Municipal League
Kat Sorensen, City Manager, City of Seward
LaVon Gall, Secretary/Treasurer, Chenega Corporation
Mari Selle, Executive Director, Maritime Works – Alaska Safety Alliance
Nathaniel Betz, Director of Community Programs, Coastal Villages Region Fund
Ray Weber, Dean, UAA Community and Technical College
Rochelle Lindley, External Affairs Manager, Coeur Mining
Shane Maloney, Director, Facilities & Energy Management, Alaska Railroad
Teri Cothren, Associate Vice President, UAA - Workforce Development
Tom Tougas, President, Four Season Marine Services