This essay describes an online writing group introduced to a CPED EdD program at a research-intensive, land-grant university during the summer of 2020 when the existing face-to-face program shifted to fully online delivery. The purpose of the writing sessions was to support EdD student practitioners with dissertation writing productivity by offering multiple weekly opportunities for synchronous writing sessions via Zoom online video conferencing. Although this new program is still in development, initial student feedback suggests that the writing sessions not only supported students’ dissertation progression, but it also established a sense of community and social support in an online environment. Lessons learned are shared, and we argue that this could be an ideal time to offer online writing sessions, especially since the pandemic will continue into the coming months.

Industries across the United States are facing a shortage of skilled technical workers. This qualitative case study investigated how participation in SkillsUSA, a career and technical student organization, influenced community college students' preparedness for the workforce and their connection to campus. Data were gathered from interest questionnaires, interviews, resumes, and observations. Using the psychology of working theory to frame the study, findings revealed participation in SkillsUSA influenced students' work choices, initiative, and confidence in overcoming obstacles. Participants also reported benefitting from a supportive campus community. The study provided an extension of the psychology of working theory to community college populations and has implications for practitioners and policymakers.

This study investigated whether postsecondary automotive technology students' interests were congruent with their chosen career pathways. One hundred eighty-six students from three institutions completed Holland's Self-Directed Search assessment. Realistic was the predominant Holland code followed by Enterprising for the participants within this study. A majority of participants had a medium level of congruence between their interests and career choices as measured by the C-index. The findings may be useful for educators, counselors, and career development professionals interested in diversifying instruction and professional development strategies to promote future career success.

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