Karen Drage

Karen Drage is an Associate Professor at Eastern Illinois University (EIU) in the School of Technology, specializing in Career and Technical Education. She earned her PhD in Workforce Education and Development from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, with additional academic qualifications at both Master’s and Bachelor’s levels from the same institution.

• Education: PhD (2004), MS (1995), BS (1993) in Workforce Education and Development from Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Her research focuses on secondary business education curriculum, out-of-field teaching, and perceptions of business education. She has published work on modernizing CTE programs and professional development for teachers, emphasizing practical applications in workforce training and educational policy. Karen actively engages with professional networks, including the National Business Education Association and the Association of Career and Technical Education.

• Courses Taught: Business Education Teaching Methods, Contemporary Business, Instructional Technology (undergraduate/graduate), Personal Financial Planning