Michelle Born Hill

About Michelle Born Hill

Experienced Educator | Work-Based Learning Leader | Career Coach With 28+ years in education, I specialize in connecting students with real-world experiences that prepare them for future careers. As Director of Work-Based Learning for over a decade, I’ve led a nationally recognized program that bridges the gap between education and industry. I’m passionate about designing innovative learning experiences that are hands-on, personalized, and aligned with both academic goals and workforce needs. My background includes instructional design, educational technology, competency-based learning, and building strategic partnerships with business and community leaders. I also bring experience in online and blended learning, professional development, and managing large-scale educational systems and initiatives. Whether coaching students, supporting teachers, or collaborating with employers, I thrive on helping people grow and succeed. Let’s connect if you’re passionate about future-ready learning, work-based education, or strategic partnerships in education.

Experience

1. Director of Work-based Learning Waukee Aspiring Professional Experience (Apex)

   Waukee Community School District

   Jul 2015 — Present · Waukee, IA, US

   Developed and led a nationally recognized, business-education partnership to design and deliver project-based learning experiences that develop student innovators and leaders.• Directed all operational functions including staffing, budget, legal, and registration for the APEX program, School-to-Work Internships, Intro to Education, and the Waukee Innovation and Learning Center.• Built and sustained strategic partnerships with business and industry leaders to co-create authentic, work-based learning opportunities.• Hired, retained, and evaluated instructional staff while also planning and facilitating professional development to support effective, real-world teaching practices.• Managed all program communications, including branding, website content, social media, press releases, grant writing, and legal agreement development.

Education

• University of Northern Iowa

  BA, Economics: Business Analysis

  1993 — 1997

• University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

  MA, Administrative Leadership, Curriculum and Instruction

  2015 — 2017

• Viterbo University

  MA, Secondary Education

  2004 — 2006