Dr. Renee Dow
Director of Operations
Guilford County Schools
Sessions
Student Internship Program to Support Hard to Fill Operations Roles in NC Public Schools
10:15 AM - 11:00 AM Thu
Dr. Renee K. Dow is a strategist, community advocate, and Director of Operations for Guilford County Schools (GCS). With experience across for-profit and nonprofit sectors in the U.S. and abroad, she designs scalable, purpose-driven talent pipelines that connect students to living‑wage careers in Operations—Maintenance (HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Carpentry, Masonry), School Nutrition Services, and Transportation (Diesel Mechanics). Grounded in North Carolina’s Career & Technical Education (CTE) and Work‑Based Learning (WBL) standards, Dr. Dow partners with Career Development Coordinators and HR to align internships with course pathways and the district’s strategic plan. Her work advances the Guilford Guarantee—ensuring graduates leave with more than a diploma, including college credit, an industry credential, and/or meaningful workplace experience. She believes early, in‑classroom engagement and summer internships help students “get their feet wet,” compare options, and build a life in careers they aspire to pursue. Dr. Dow’s leadership has gained statewide and national visibility. She was prominently featured in V&P Magazine in the article “Leading with Purpose: How Dr. Renee Dow Is Transforming Education Through Visionary Leadership,” which highlights her strategic approach to operational excellence, community‑centered leadership, and her commitment to strengthening district workforce pipelines. This recognition complements additional media coverage in NCDPI’s Weekly Top Ten, WFMY News 2, FOX8 WGHP, and The High Point Enterprise. Dr. Dow holds a Doctor of Business in Global Business Specialization, an MBA, and undergraduate degrees in science and human relations. Her leadership is defined by service, partnership, and measurable outcomes for students, families, and staff.