WA-ACTE 2026 Summer Conference

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1:00pm PDT

Ignite Learning with Laser Precision: Empowering Classrooms with xTool P2S

Sunday August 2, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT

In this session, we will demo the P2S 55W Desktop CO2 Laser Cutter. We will also compare the P2S with the latest model P3. Bring a file (SVG/DXF/JPG/JPEG/PNG/BMP/TIF) to see if you are chosen as a demo for either laser cutting or laser engraving in this session.

Speakers

Faith Taylor

Educational Consultant, Southern Educational Consulting and Training

Faith Taylor is an educational consultant at Southern Educational Consulting and Training. At Southern Educational Consulting & Training, our focus is on providing access to world-class educational technology in the areas of automated manufacturing, industrial maintenance, engineering... Read More →

Sunday August 2, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Meeting Room # 3

WITEA

1:00pm PDT

From Basic Circuits to Industrial Automation: Building Student Skills Through Hands-On Learning

Sunday August 2, 2026 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT

Terrace East

This hands-on session demonstrates how basic electrical circuit concepts can grow into advanced industrial automation skills. Participants will explore foundational topics including DC circuits, switches, relays, relay logic, and basic wiring techniques using EIT training systems. The session will then connect these core concepts to more advanced technologies through live PLC and stoplight control demonstrations, helping educators see clear pathways from introductory electrical instruction to modern industrial controls and automation.

Speakers

Ben Hamlett

Owner, Desert Manufacturing

Ben Hamlett is the owner of Desert Manufacturing in Buhl, Idaho, where he designs and builds hands-on electrical, electronics, automation, and industrial training systems for schools and industry. He also serves as a Distinguished Professor and Automation Engineering program coordinator... Read More →

Sunday August 2, 2026 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Terrace East Second Floor Davenport Grand

WITEA

3:00pm PDT

Future‑Ready STEM Starts Here: Why PLTW Leads the Way

Sunday August 2, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm PDT

Meeting Room # 4

Collaborate and learn why Project Lead The Way remains the top choice for engaging students in STEM through engineering, biomedical science, and computer science pathways. Explore new courses—Advanced Manufacturing, Building for the Future & Skilled Trades, and Principles of AI. Discover how PLTW prepares students with industry credentials and college credit opportunities. Hear from WA PLTW teachers and CTE Directors and learn about grants to launch or expand programs. Let’s build future‑ready STEM pathways that actually stick!

Speakers

Diane Lashinsky

Director of School Success, Project Lead The Way

Diane Lashinsky is the PLTW Director of School Success in WA State. Diane has 30-years of experience in K-12 education as a teacher and administrator and has been working with Project Lead The Way for 10 years. Her primary role is to advise and support WA school districts and... Read More →

Sunday August 2, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm PDT
Meeting Room # 4

WITEA, STEM

6:30pm PDT

WITEA Member Social

Sunday August 2, 2026 6:30pm - 8:30pm PDT

FlatStick Pub

Speakers

Cheyenne LaViolette

Student Television Network, Student Television Network

Cheyenne LaViolette is in her 7th year teaching at Hanford High School in Richland, Washington. She teaches a variety of filmmaking and broadcasting classes to grades 9 through 12. Cheyenne is the past president of WITEA. She was awarded New Teacher of the Year for WASTS... Read More →