Description

CMMA CTE Spring Summit

April 23, 2026

7:15 AM - 2:30 PM

Educators — including CTE teachers, counselors, principals, and superintendents — are invited to a special full-day experience on April 23 in St. Cloud, designed to connect the classroom with real-world manufacturing.

The day will begin with the CMMA breakfast meeting at Coyote Moon Grille, featuring Kirby Sneen, President & CEO of Manufacturers Alliance, presenting “Recognition That’s So Good It Will Help You Retain Talent.” This session will provide valuable insight into today’s workforce challenges and the strategies manufacturers are using to engage and retain employees.

Following the presentation, attendees will take part in a guided tour of Geringhoff, a German-founded company and global leader in harvest equipment since 1880. This is a great opportunity to see advanced manufacturing in action and gather ideas to bring back to students.

After the tour, educators will walk across the street to National Vision for a dedicated roundtable discussion focused on strengthening connections between education and industry. Topics will include externships, apprenticeships, classroom resources, manufacturing tours, and ways to better align curriculum with current career opportunities. Resource Training and Solutions will also share available programs and support for educators.

Attendees will then enjoy a networking and industry lunch at National Vision, offering time to connect with fellow educators and industry professionals.

To wrap up the day, attendees will tour National Vision and Sunburst Memorials.These experiences will give educators a behind-the-scenes look at modern manufacturing—walking the production floor, seeing equipment and processes in action, and learning how products are made from start to finish. Attendees will also hear directly from employees about career pathways, required skills, and real-world applications to bring back to the classroom.

This event is free for schools. CEUs will be offered, and substitute reimbursement (up to $180) is available. Lunch will be provided. This is a unique opportunity to learn, connect, and collaborate with industry leaders and fellow educators—while gaining valuable insights to bring back to the classroom.