Keynote Speakers

Address from Nicholas Kent, Under Secretary of Education, U.S. Department of Education

As the 15th Under Secretary of Education, Kent oversees postsecondary education, career, technical and adult education and federal student aid programs, including the more than $1.6 trillion federal student loan portfolio and over $30 billion Pell Grant program. He was nominated by President Donald J. Trump and confirmed by the Senate.

Kent is responsible for implementing President Trump’s mission to restore the greatness of American higher education and ensure that our taxpayer-supported colleges, universities, vocational schools, and other postsecondary programs are genuinely helping high school graduates and working adults launch and grow their careers.

Before joining the U.S. Department of Education, Kent served as Deputy Secretary of Education for the Commonwealth of Virginia under Governor Glenn Youngkin. Kent previously served as Chief Policy Officer at Career Education Colleges and Universities, where he advocated for federal policies that support career-focused education and promote choice and innovation in higher education.

Reaching Gen Z: Social Media for the Trades

Melinda Gladish, Hobart Institute of Welding

Melinda Gladish has served as the Marketing and Career Development Manager for Hobart Institute of Welding Technology since 2016, leading strategic marketing initiatives, overseeing social media engagement, and guiding career development efforts for both students and graduates. With a passion for connecting education with industry opportunity, she plays a key role in promoting workforce development and helping individuals launch successful careers in skilled trades. Prior to joining Hobart, Melinda spent six years as Director of Career Services for a two- and four-year educational institution, where she built strong employer partnerships and helped students transition successfully from the classroom to the workforce. Melinda brings more than 30 years of experience in sales, marketing, and business development across both the private and public sectors. Her diverse background includes working with leadership teams in various industries including large medical facilities, education, and manufacturing, giving her a unique perspective on workforce needs, employer engagement, and market-driven career development. Today, Melinda combines her extensive industry experience with a genuine commitment to student recruitment and success, helping bridge the gap between technical education and career opportunities

Ty Pennington

Ty Pennington is a designer, carpenter, author, and Emmy Award–winning television personality. Ty first gained national recognition on the hit TLC series Trading Spaces and later became the beloved host of ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. Beyond television, Ty has become a passionate advocate for workforce development in the skilled trades. He frequently speaks about the importance of career pathways in construction, design, and the building trades—fields that offer meaningful, well-paying opportunities while addressing critical workforce shortages. Throughout his career, Ty has used his platform to elevate the value of hands-on careers, encourage young people to pursue trade education, and highlight the essential role skilled professionals play in building and strengthening communities. 

Chris Sbrocco, Pro Service Plumbing

Chris Sbrocco is an Ohio Master Plumber and licensed contractor with over 20 years of hands-on experience in the trades. As the Founder & CEO of Pro Service Plumbing & Mechanical, he has worked every level of the field—from hand digging underground plumbing installations to leading large-scale plumbing, mechanical, and nationwide large-loss emergency response projects exceeding $100M in value. Chris is also a content creator and industry advocate, leveraging social media and technology to attract, train, and develop the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

Navigating the Evolution of Digital Marketing

Dr. Dustin York is an Associate Professor at Maryville University in St. Louis and an award-winning expert in communication, marketing, and digital transformation. Before entering academia, he built a successful career in public relations, working on the 2008 Obama Presidential Campaign and with global brands including PepsiCo and Nike—experience that continues to inform his practical, results-driven approach today. Dr. York specializes in helping organizations strengthen enrollment, engagement, and brand positioning through interpersonal communication, social media strategy, and modern marketing practices. His work is especially relevant for education leaders navigating today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

A recognized thought leader, Dr. York serves as a subject matter expert for CNN, Entrepreneur.com, and Forbes, and contributes to Harvard Business Review. He is also a sought-after keynote speaker and trainer, known for delivering actionable insights that organizations can immediately apply. His accolades include the St. Louis Business Journal’s 30 Under 30, Maryville University’s President’s Award for Strategic Leadership and Transformation Innovation, and designation as an Apple Distinguished Educator.

Dr. York’s engaging and high-energy style resonates with leadership audiences, translating complex marketing and communication strategies into clear, practical takeaways. School owners and administrators will leave his sessions with fresh ideas to attract students, strengthen their brand, and adapt to the changing expectations of today’s learners.