CTE Admin Team
Ron Weston
Coordinator
Career Technical Education
Ron Weston brings a rich, multi-faceted perspective to his role as Coordinator of Career Technical Education, rooted in a career spanning over two decades in public education and leadership. His unique trajectory—from a former high school ROP student and retail manager to a seasoned teacher and administrator—fuels his passion for building and sustaining meaningful career pathways for all students. Leading Riverside Unified's CTE initiatives since 2015, Ron has spearheaded the expansion of district pathways from 12 to 50, managed nearly $40 million in grant funding, and established a comprehensive K–14 career exploration framework.
At the core of Ron’s philosophy is the belief that CTE equips students with essential professional skills that serve them long after graduation, regardless of the post-secondary route they choose. Whether designing strategic plans, presenting at statewide CTE conferences, or collaborating with community partners, Ron remains dedicated to ensuring every student gains hands-on, real-world experience. He firmly believes that providing early career engagement and strong technical training opens doors, empowers youth, and builds strong foundations for lifelong success.
Mrs. Lowry
Administrative Secretary 1
Career Technical Education
As Administrative Assistant, Mrs. Lowry supports the College and Career Readiness and Career Technical Education Departments. She is excited to be part of a support system that cares about the future of today's youth. Mrs. Lowry believes the CTE Department is an awesome team of people to work with because they care.
Nick Mugridge
CTE Liaison
Ambassador Advisor
Before joining the district team as CTE Liaison, Nick Mugridge spent over a decade in the high school classroom as a Graphic Design and Print Production teacher, yearbook advisor, and CTE Lead. As CTE Liaison, he supports CTE teachers, develops programs, writes grant proposals, and connects RUSD high school students to post-secondary education through college articulation. He also serves as an Applied Digital Media adjunct faculty at Riverside City College. Nick is a creative technician who believes in pushing the boundaries of education and providing our communities with a competent, engaged, and inspired workforce.
Jenna King
Golden State Pathway Lead
Ambassador Advisor
Jenna spent twelve years teaching elementary and, most recently, middle school math before joining the CTE team. Jenna believes in finding a student's passion and creating inclusive, fun, and rigorous activities that all students will identify with. She currently oversees the Golden State Pathways Program Grant.
Laura King
Career Support Specialist
Ambassador Advisor
Laura spent 19 years in the elementary classroom before joining the CTE team. She is excited to serve as a Teacher on Special Assignment overseeing the elementary and middle school implementation of the Vertical Career Exploration & Student Support Improvement Plan. She helps our K-8 students explore careers and engage with the world of work, preparing them for the experiences they will encounter in high school and beyond.