From Community College to Capitol Hill: PTK Alum Featured on Roadtrip Nation

June 16, 2025
default
Nick Moore, Deputy  Assistant Secretary, Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education for the U.S. Department of Education

Before Nick Moore made it to Capitol Hill and the Alabama Governor’s Office, he was a Phi Theta Kappa member.

Nick began his higher education journey at Enterprise State Community College in Alabama, according to his Roadtrip Nation profile.

At Enterprise State, he joined the Tau Mu Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa and later served as chapter vice president. This early leadership experience helped shape his path forward.

After completing community college, Nick transferred to continue his education.

“I began my college journey at a community college and then completed my bachelor’s degree in history and political science through Harvard University’s extension studies program,” Moore said to Roadtrip Nation.

With his degree in hand, Nick started his career as a substitute teacher. He soon joined Teach for America as a corps member.

He taught U.S. history, government, and economics at Central High School in Lowndes County, Alabama for three years. Then, he made the ambitious shift to Capitol Hill.

He worked as a legislative fellow then a legislative assistant. Most recently, he worked as the Director of the Governor’s Office of Education and Workforce Transformation for Alabama Governor Kay Ivey.

“I help the governor build a talent ecosystem predicated on skills-based hiring and competency-based learning,” Nick said.

Now, he is taking his skills back to Washington D.C.. He was recently appointed as the Deputy  Assistant Secretary, Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education for the U.S. Department of Education.

In this role, he will help guide national strategies to improve access to high-quality career and technical education programs for learners of all ages.

Nick Moore’s story is a testament to the power of community college and the opportunities that can emerge from involvement in Phi Theta Kappa. His journey—from a small town in Alabama to shaping national education policy—is a powerful reminder that no matter where you start, your dreams are within reach.

Learn more about Nick’s career roadmap on Roadtrip Nation’s website.

Related Articles

Connect with Common App at PTK Catalyst 

No matter where you are on your college journey, Common App makes transferring to college easier by meeting you right where you are. With one platform, you can apply to multiple colleges, saving time and money. During PTK Catalyst, be sure to stop by and connect with our team, grab Common App swag, and receive resources to…

Phi Theta Kappa Elects Mary Graham to International Board of Directors

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Mary Graham, President of Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, to its International Board of Directors. A nationally respected leader in community college education, Dr. Graham brings extensive executive experience, institutional perspective, and a deep commitment to student success to Phi Theta…

Turn Your Idea Into Impact

Apply for the Community College Innovation Challenge Do you have a STEM-based idea with the potential to make an impact? Through the Community College Innovation Challenge (CCIC), students gain the tools, coaching, and experience to turn ideas into action and step into the role of innovators and entrepreneurs. Led by American Association of Community Colleges…