How “Second Career” CTE Teachers are Shaping the Workforce of Tomorrow

Since its inception two decades ago, California’s Career Technical Education (CTE) program has been celebrated for equipping students with practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge. Many CTE instructors bring a wealth of experience from their first careers, offering students a unique perspective. But what inspires these professionals to embark on a “second career” in teaching? 

For Lisa Krch, the journey from award-winning journalist to high school teacher was anything but ordinary.

Her journalism dreams began in the fifth grade when she saw how captivating news anchors were. At 16, she landed a part-time job as a radio DJ. At only 20, Krch secured a job learning how to operate a studio camera at a small Reno television station while obtaining her bachelor’s degree at the University of Nevada, Reno. She lived and breathed broadcast journalism and even achieved her big break as an on-camera anchor for a small television station in Eureka, Calif., at 22.

The next 20 years saw her career take off — even winning an Emmy for her journalism work. She had learned a variety of skills in the industry, such as photography, editing, reporting, producing, and anchoring. In 2012, the news station she worked at was forced to downsize. 

“I was a single mom of two little boys at the time but I knew this was a turning point for me,” Krch recalled.

After dabbling in the mortgage industry for a while, she realized there was no creativity in it. Krch heard of an opportunity to work for the Kern High School District as a Public Information and Communication Manager and decided to pursue it. She worked in this role until she finally became a teacher — a goal she didn’t know she had all along, despite growing up with two parents who were educators.

For the past seven years, Krch has taught video production at Kern High School’s Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC). To become eligible, Krch had to obtain a Career Technical Education (CTE) credential, a lesser-known pathway to becoming a teacher that enables industry professionals to share their expertise with students.

“Those experiences working in an industry I loved gave me the foundation I needed to do what I do now — mentor students to pursue their own passions in video production,” said Krch. “Some of my students have gone on to become editors, producers, and even directors at local news stations.”

Unlike traditional teaching credentials, a CTE credential focuses on real-world industry experience. According to Janeth Barajas, a coordinator with Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) Educator Development department, this credentialing pathway is designed for professionals who want to bring their hands-on expertise into the classroom.

“To qualify for a preliminary CTE credential, you need three years of work experience directly related to an industry sector, 1,000 hours of full-time or part-time paid or unpaid experience, and a high school diploma or GED,” Barajas explained. “If you meet those requirements, you’re recommended for a preliminary credential and have three years to complete a program focused on pedagogy, classroom management, and curriculum design.”

Currently, aspiring CTE teachers in Kern County must enroll in programs outside of Kern County to complete the required coursework. Recognizing the challenges this creates for local industry professionals transitioning into education, KCSOS is working to design a CTE credential program that will give CTE teachers the same strong system of local support that is available to teachers who hold other types of credentials. 

“We understand how difficult it can be for people to juggle their jobs and family responsibilities while commuting long distances to take classes,” Barajas said. “By creating a local credentialing system, we’re making the process more accessible and tailored to our community’s needs. Our goal is to provide CTE teachers with tools and support that lead to the retention of high-quality instructors who are equipped to meet the needs of Kern County’s students.”

Although the new CTE credentialing program has not yet been formally launched, Barajas notes that KCSOS is already providing financial support through the K-16 Strong Workforce Grant. These grants help cover the cost of coursework for teachers with a preliminary CTE credential who are working toward full certification.

“This kind of support is critical in ensuring that schools across Kern County can continue to offer robust career and technical education programs,” said Barajas.

Most CTE teachers follow a similar path to Krch. On the west side of Kern County, Taft Union High School District offers students the chance to explore diverse career pathways, including agriculture, education, energy, manufacturing, marketing, and hospitality. Among these opportunities is a thriving graphic communications program led by Mark Fitzsimmons — a teacher whose own story showcases the power of CTE education.

A graduate of Taft Union High School, Fitzsimmons moved to Houston after graduation and built a successful career running his own printing company. But when his former CTE graphic design teacher approached him and asked him to return to teach the same class he took all those years before, he couldn’t resist the opportunity to give back. Now, 34 years later, he continues to use his industry experience to inspire and equip the next generation of designers. His students gain hands-on experience in screen printing, photography, and marketing — practical skills that have helped many launch their own businesses.

“It’s incredible to see students take what they’ve learned and build something tangible,” Fitzsimmons said. “These career exploration opportunities make all the difference for some students.”

Another former Taft Union High School student turned CTE culinary arts teacher is Carlos Chavira. Growing up in Taft, Chavira learned how to cook while working at Jo’s Family Restaurant in high school. After graduating, he had successful careers in the military and oil industry. Through it all, Chavira maintained his love for cooking.

“I started my own catering business called Flaco’s Tacos which enabled me to continue pursuing what I loved,” said Chavira. “When the oil industry shifted, I started looking for new opportunities and got a call from Taft Union High School to teach culinary arts. It wasn’t something I planned, but it’s been incredibly rewarding.”

According to Chavira, the culinary program doesn’t just teach students how to cook; it instills life skills. Students learn everything from menu planning to teamwork and often take those lessons home.

Culinary arts students at Taft High School.

“I’ve had parents thank me because their kids are helping out in the kitchen,” he says. “It’s not just about food — it’s about creating strong families and communities.”

For professionals considering a career change, Krch emphasizes the rewards of teaching.

“If you’re passionate about your industry and want to share that with the next generation, there’s no better way to do it,” she said.

For those interested in becoming a CTE teacher, more information is available HERE or you may email questions to CTCredential@kern.org. Alternatively, the KCSOS Teacher Development and Teacher Induction departments will have a table at the annual Teacher Recruitment Fair, scheduled for February 1 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Larry E. Reider Education Center. Register at kern.org/trf.