Growing up in a small “factory town” in upstate New York, Dr. Cirillo saw, first hand, the benefits of Career & Technology Education.  “Many of these programs, which offered the certifications and credentials needed to gain immediate employment, helped so many people in my town become thriving productive citizens.” It is her belief that with the combination of passion-driven teachers, workforce-ready training programs that offer certifications and credentials, and a clear pathway for success, great outcomes will result; high-performing, skilled workers who are responsible citizens.

Whether speaking to an audience of a hundred or to only one person in the room, Dr. Kathleen Cirillo has a way of making a lasting impact and changing lives.

For over 30 years, she has been working in schools and in youth organizations throughout out United States with only one mission in mind: to inspire and help people reach their highest potential.  She is passionate about working with young people who have a dream of success and the dedicated teachers who assist them in making their dreams become a reality.

Before becoming the Executive Director for Career Skills Network, Dr. Cirillo was a Leadership Solutions Strategist and Researcher for one of the world’s largest educational training organizations since its formation.  She provided training and consulting services in schools and her research played an integral role in validating the success of their programs.

Dr. Cirillo also authored various curricula on experiential teaching and counseling activities that teach life leadership and published articles on grant writing and adolescent loneliness, youth violence, and the impact of social-cognitive therapeutic techniques on at-risk behavior. She holds a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University and a master’s degree from Wake Forest University.

Dr. Cirillo is not only an educational leader, but also has a servant’s heart towards her family and friends.