Steve Burton is a 2007 alumnus of Hart County High School who now serves as the CTAE Director and CEO of Hart College and Career Academy. Steve completed two pathways in high school, Education and Construction, and applies what he has learned both in his personal and professional life in his current role. He furthered his education at Emmanuel College for his bachelor’s degree, Piedmont College for his master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and a specialist degree in Educational Teacher Leadership, and Columbus State University for his specialist degree in Leadership and Administration. His career growth demonstrates the potential opportunities that CTAE, coupled with post-secondary education, can provide. Steve began his education career at South Hart Elementary School, first as an Elementary Math Interventionist, and then moving into a position as an English to Speakers of Other Languages teacher at South Hart and Hartwell Elementary Schools. He then served as the STEAM facilitator at Hart Elementary for four years before being appointed as the Assistant Principal of North Hart Elementary School. After another four years, Steve was appointed to his current position as CEO and CTAE Director of Hart College and Career Academy.  

“My passion for teaching and serving students was started in my education pathway with Mrs. Jamie Partain. While in high school, I was able to ‘test the waters’ by interning to ensure teaching was what I wanted to do.” 

Aria Lavender is a 2021 graduate of Dutchtown High School, where she completed the Construction Pathway. Aria works as a Project Engineer Intern at DPR Construction Company and plans to graduate from Kennesaw State University this fall with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management. She participated in different skills competitions, such as SkillsUSA, which helped her develop her foundational knowledge of construction, teamwork skills, and a love for building. Aria was also engaged in Work-Based Learning, which introduced her to a professional setting that assisted in her career development. In her time as a CTAE student, Aria credits the communication and leadership skills she learned as some of her most pivotal experiences. She was a team leader in skills building challenges and leading her team to win seventh place in the nation in the National Association of Homebuilders custom home building competition. In her own words, her experience in CTAE has helped her try new things and have no fear when facing new challenges.  

“Both CTAE and WBL provided me with exposure to both professional and career driven environments. I was able to become accustomed to different settings of facing challenges, allowing me to grow and develop strength while knowing I still have support. The drive and ambition I fostered in these programs have transferred to my current mentality within my career path.” 

Riley Hastings graduated from Harris County High School in 2025, and during his time there, he took full advantage of an important Work-Based Learning (WBL) opportunity with Georgia Power. Riley took a welding course and an automotive course while in high school and then turned his attention to WBL. He was able to experience the company culture at Georgia Power and envision what a career as a lineman would look like. He was able to develop the mental and physical capabilities to perform safely on the job and developed employability skills that continue to aid him in his work today. After graduation, Riley took a position as a Georgia Power Lineman Apprentice, and he hopes to become a full electrical lineworker after attending college for engineering or business management. 

“Being a part of WBL helped prepare me for career success. There were several skills gained from this experience that have helped shape me into the employee I am today. Georgia Power’s WBL program offered monthly employability skills training that contributed to my overall success that I find myself using in my everyday work. As a WBL intern on the crew, my teamwork skills were strengthened as the daily goal was to accomplish a common goal together and, most importantly, safely and reliably. My most favorite memory from being in the WBL program is simple, but essential in the workplace; I had fun while learning new skills daily.”

Abigail D’Morais served as Georgia HOSA’s 2025-2026 Vice President of Officer Relations. As a proud Senior at McIntosh High School, Abigail is actively involved in a variety of extracurriculars, including HOSA, Environmental Club, Beta Club, and many more. Through her completion of the CTAE Allied Health & Medicine healthcare pathway, she earned her Certified Clinical Medical Assistant certification. This credential has opened the door to countless WBL opportunities each morning for Abigail to shadow, intern, and volunteer with nurses in the NICU at her local hospital. 

“CTAE courses and organizations serve as the bridge between passion and profession. While uncertainty regarding the future is common among high school students, my healthcare pathway and HOSA have given me confidence and clarity. These opportunities have equipped me, and many of my peers, with the skills, leadership experience, and self-assurance needed to successfully navigate our growing goals and aspirations.”