Kari Salinas Bio
Externship Coordinator/TOSA
With over 10 years of experience in Career and Technical Education (CTE), I have dedicated my career to preparing students for success in both academics and the workforce. My teaching experience spans Agriculture, Business and Personal Finance, Logistics, and Entrepreneurship, with a focus on creating hands-on, real-world learning opportunities. I hold a CTE teaching credential in Agriculture and Natural Resources, Finance and Business, Marketing Sales and Service, and Transportation, showcasing my diverse expertise in equipping students for a wide range of industries. I also hold a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington and am currently a third-year doctoral student at the University of Wisconsin, where I am advancing my expertise in CTE. These academic achievements, combined with my classroom experience, enable me to be a strong advocate for CTE and student success.
Outside of my professional life, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, riding horses, gardening, and restoring old homes. I am passionate about community service, mentoring, and continuous learning, which allow me to stay connected and give back to my community.
I deeply admire the drive and creativity of my students, who inspire me daily with their determination to overcome challenges and succeed. I am equally appreciative of the collaborative spirit of my fellow educators and the innovative mission of the REAL Journey program. My goal is to empower students to achieve their full potential by equipping them with the technical, academic, and life skills needed for lifelong success. Through my work, I strive to contribute meaningfully to the RJA mission and create impactful learning experiences that prepare students for their futures.