CAMPUS LEADERSHIP
Carla Way, Executive Director
Carla Way serves as Executive Director of American Leadership Academy Applied Technologies, bringing more than three decades of technology and program-management leadership to the role. Before joining ALA, she was Vice President of Technology (Chief Technology Officer) at Charter One, guiding strategic initiatives across the ALA network. Her résumé also includes senior positions at USAA, JLL, BMO Harris Bank, Capco, and HSBC, where she oversaw large-scale projects and diverse teams. With a passion for innovative, career-focused education—and firsthand experience as a vocational-tech high-school graduate—Carla is committed to ensuring ALA Applied Tech students leave with both a diploma and industry-recognized certifications; under her guidance, the campus recently became one of only three high schools nationwide, and the first in Arizona, to earn FAA certification for its aviation-maintenance program.
Carla holds an MS in Management and Leadership, an MBA, and a BS in Business Management from Western Governors University, as well as a master’s certificate in Project Management from Villanova University and PMP and CSM credentials. Known for her warm, community-centered approach, she partners closely with families and teachers to advance ALA’s R.A.I.S.E. values—Respect, Accountability, Integrity, Service, and Excellence—while equipping students with hands-on experience, leadership opportunities, and the confidence to thrive in college, career, and life.
Heidi Zellner, Campus Director
Heidi Zellner is the Director of American Leadership Academy Applied Technologies and brings over 20 years of experience in education, including both classroom instruction and leadership roles. A graduate of Northern Arizona University, Mrs. Zellner holds a master's degree in secondary education and educational leadership. Throughout her career, she has served as a teacher, faculty member, and administrator in a variety of schools across the Valley.
Mrs. Zellner is deeply passionate about the mission of ALA Applied Technologies and the impact this innovative, first-of-its-kind school can have in preparing students to be both college and career ready. She looks forward to helping shape the future of the school and the success of its students.
“In support of the family, provide the best educational experience to as many students as possible in a moral and whoelsome environment”
