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NC3 has some impressive team members in our ranks and this Staff Spotlight series aims to highlight the incredibly talented individuals who work with us. We’ll be featuring a new interview in our monthly newsletters, here on our website, and on our social media pages each month.
Vanessa Birney
Vanessa began her career as an intervention specialist in K-12 and then moved into higher education to work as an instructional designer.
Prior to joining NC3, she worked in the Office of Institutional Effectiveness at a local community college where she worked on institutional accreditation and continuous improvement projects.
Check out our Q&A session below to learn more about how Vanessa first became interested in CTE, what she plans to accomplish in her role at NC3, how she stays busy in her personal life, and more!
Check out our Q&A session below to learn more about Vanessa!
How did you become interested in career and technical education?
I am drawn to CTE because it offers practical skills and direct pathways to employment in industries like healthcare, IT, and skilled trades. The combination of hands-on learning, job readiness, and the opportunity to meet industry demands can be appealing for those who want an alternative to traditional academic routes while still achieving professional success.
What do you enjoy about working with NC3?
I love working with NC3 because it is industry-driven and collaborative as NC3 wants to see people succeed. NC3 works with educational institutions and industry partners to deliver high quality training in order to prepare students for the workforce.
What is on your wish list for the next 5 years with NC3?
My wish list over the next five years with NC3 is to help improve the curriculum development process and work to develop some type of accreditation process possibly. I have had several discussions with co-workers and I love working with accreditation. I think it would be awesome to have some type of NC3 accreditation process for the schools.
What does true leadership mean to you?
True leadership means inspiring and guiding others toward a common goal while fostering trust, respect, and growth within a team or community. A true leader empowers others, makes decisions with both confidence and humility and encourages collaboration to achieve shared success.
Do you have a motto or personal mantra?
Always work hard, because the person next to you is working harder!
What would you tell someone in high school about the years to come?
I would tell a high school student that the years to come are full of opportunities and growth, both personally and professionally. (1) Be open to change: Your goals and interests may evolve, and that is okay. Be flexible and explore new experiences. (2) Develop strong work habits: Time management, discipline and a strong work ethic will help you in college, work, or any future path. (3) Pursue what excites you: Whether it’s academic, technical, or creative, follow your passion, but also be practical about career prospects.
Where is your hometown?
My hometown is in Cadiz, Ohio (eastern Ohio).
What do you like to do on your days off?
I love spending time with my family and livestock. I come from a very agricultural family and we love spending time together in the barn prepping our horses and cattle for livestock shows.
What is your hidden talent? Or talents?
My hidden talent is playing the piano. I began taking piano lessons in fifth grade and now enjoy helping teach my children to play the piano.
Where would you like to go on a dream vacation?
I have always wanted to travel to England, Scotland and Ireland. My family tree traces back to each of these countries and I would love to spend time exploring each one!
To connect with Vanessa, email her at vanessa.birney@nc3.net
