• Post category:Speaker2023
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Principal and Chief Executive

Karen Spencer MBE FIMA – Biography

Currently Principal and CEO of Harlow and Stansted Airport Colleges, Karen has worked in the Further Education sector for 28 years. The colleges are the first in the UK to hold Apple Distinguished Status for innovation in learning and technology. They have a good reputation and pride themselves on their approach – “More than courses. Careers”.

Karen Chairs the APPG Aviation STEM Jobs and Skills group and sits on the Royal Society Post-16 Mathematics contact group.

Karen is a Fellow of the Institute of Mathematics and its applications, and holds an honours degree in Applied Mathematics. Karen takes an active interest in all aspects of Education, and is particularly interested in how the curriculum can better meet the needs of young people and adults, providing excellent career routes. This passion for links between education and employers led to the establishment of Stansted Airport College, the first dedicated Aviation College at any major UK Airport.

In 2021 Karen was awarded an MBE in recognition of her contribution to FE and the Aviation Industry.