Administrator Spotlight

Jennifer Turner

CTE Coordinator, Guy Fenter Education Service Cooperative

Jennifer Turner, CTE Coordinator for Guy Fenter Education Service Cooperative, says "I always wanted to work in CTE and had a love for Agriculture from my family's deep ties to Agriculture. It was a natural fit as both of my parents were employed in CTE related fields. It is all I really knew." She started her education career at Lincoln High School as an Agriculture Instructor. "I was able to intern and be hired to work with the legendary Dewayne Webb. His guidance, especially early in my career, provided me with the experiences and knowledge base to apply and be hired by the Ozark School District who were reinstating their Agriculture Program that had been dormant for 25 years." She taught in Ozark for 10 years and worked to complete her administrator degree and obtain her principal licensure. She was then hired in the CTE Department of the Guy Fenter ESC where she has worked to develop CTE programs for their 21 school districts.

Jennifer has seen several shifts over her career. She states, "When I started, careers and workforce development through education was a major focus and taught at every district. Then for several years, college degrees were promoted and students felt that going to college was the only way to be successful. Now the pendulum has shifted back, and we are seeing that students need to be career ready no matter what career path they choose. Our business and industries in Arkansas are providing students great opportunities with earning potentials above what most college degree careers offer."

Jennifer says she loves seeing students find a passion and realize their talents through CTE education. The most challenging part of her job is that the landscape with CTE is ever-changing. "We have to consider the needs of business and industry, so our programs are always evolving and changing to meet those needs and challenges," she explains. "Keeping all 21 districts up to speed with all the changes and For those considering the career, she advises to visit and learn about all the different CTE programs that are available. "Also, visit your post-secondary and learn about what opportunities are available to your districts," she continues. "Be involved with your stakeholder engagement so you can understand the workforce needs in your area."

When asked about what she feels is her greatest professional accomplishment, she says it's "the impact I’ve made through mentoring other CTE Coordinators and teachers, and helping elevate our region to be recognized as one of the strongest in the state. I take pride in fostering collaboration, sharing resources, and creating systems of support that empower educators and ultimately benefit students. Watching others grow in their roles—and knowing that our collective efforts are opening real-world opportunities for students—is the most fulfilling part of my career."

? Q&A ! with Jennifer Turner

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Mr. Webb cautioned to be careful what you wish for because you just might get it. Think it all through. And that Rome wasn’t built in a day. Program development takes time and a lot of energy. Always take time to breathe and spend time with your family.

What might other administrators be surprised to know about you?

I was the first in my family to graduate college. CTE education and Agriculture helped me become confident and find my voice. I am very passionate about CTE and our Career and Technical Student Organizations and love the opportunities that our students have available.

What is the most daring thing you’ve done?

I have cliff dived. Probably wouldn’t do that a second time.

What do you enjoy doing during your time off?

I love animals and my favorites are my donkey Clyde and my naughty cat, Pete. I love landscaping and growing things, especially flowers. I find a lot of parallels in my roots in agriculture and how students can grow and achieve. My favorite thing to do is go fishing! I especially love trout fishing on the White and Little Red Rivers.

What is one of the things on your “Bucket List?”

I would like to go skydiving and I would like to travel abroad.

If you weren’t in your current position, what would you be doing?

I would be a veterinarian. Animals have also always been a passion of mine. I loved growing up on a farm and working with my grandparents. I loved doctoring animals and nursing them back to health.

When people look back at your life, how do you want to be remembered?

I want to be remembered as someone who was passionate about those things that were so important to me in my life- my faith, my family and my career. I met challenges head-on and didn’t back down when things were tough. I always try to treat people fairly and respect and value our differences.

What do you see as the biggest benefit of AAEA membership?

One of the biggest benefits of AAEA membership is the access to professional development resources and networking opportunities. Members can participate in workshops, conferences, and training sessions that enhance their leadership skills and knowledge in educational administration. Additionally, being part of a community of peers allows for the sharing of best practices and support, which can lead to improved outcomes and relationships.