Live a life of significance, a life of service, and everything follows passion, inspiration, and impact.
Guia Blaske · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Guia
Guia Blaske is a retired educator who dedicated 30 years to public education in California, building a career defined by innovation, leadership, and service. After beginning her professional journey as a library technician, she earned her teaching credential from Chapman University around 2000 and transitioned into mathematics education. She taught algebra, geometry, and Algebra II before joining Vista Murrieta High School, where she spent approximately a decade teaching mathematics and later developed a comprehensive Career Technical Education engineering program. As CTE Department Chair, she helped organize the program district-wide, establishing four engineering courses, industry partnerships, and career pathways designed to connect classroom learning with future educational and career opportunities.
Blaske’s academic and professional background reflects a strong combination of engineering, education, and leadership. She earned a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from the University of the Philippines, a teaching credential from Chapman University, and an M.A. in Educational Administration from California State University, San Bernardino. She also earned Project Lead The Way certifications in Introduction to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, and Engineering Design and Development, further strengthening her expertise in engineering education. Her dedication to students and educational innovation has earned numerous honors, including District Teacher of the Year in 2021, VMHS Teacher of the Year in 2020, the ITEEA Teacher Excellence Award in 2020, and VMHS Bronco of the Year in 2013. She also advised student organizations, including Interact in partnership with the Rotary Club of Murrieta for 21 years, and has been involved with the Society of Women Engineers, Association for Career and Technical Education, ITEEA, and Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society.
Following her retirement in June 2026, Blaske continues to pursue her passion for education and community service through her campaign for school board trustee in the Murrieta Valley Unified School District, Area 1. Drawing on three decades of classroom and educational leadership experience, she remains committed to creating opportunities for students, supporting educators, partnering with families, and strengthening the connection between education, economic development, and quality of life. Her philosophy, reflected in her “From Classroom to Boardroom” message, emphasizes listening before making decisions, responsible stewardship of resources, measuring results, and keeping student outcomes at the center of governance. Through her continued service, Blaske seeks to inspire change, encourage innovation, and help ensure that every student has the opportunity to discover purpose, develop their potential, and build a successful future.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Guia
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my willingness to embrace new opportunities, continuously learn, and remain committed to education and professional growth. After immigrating to the United States from the Philippines in 1988, I built my career through perseverance, beginning with a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering and later earning my teaching credential and master’s degree in Educational Administration. I have continued to expand my expertise through Project Lead The Way curriculum certifications and active involvement in professional organizations such as the Society of Women Engineers and the Association for Career and Technical Education. These experiences have strengthened my ability to adapt, lead, and inspire students while allowing me to bring real-world engineering knowledge into the classroom.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to follow their passion, because when you pursue what genuinely inspires you, you are more likely to discover a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in your work. Staying true to your passions can also create new opportunities, open doors to unexpected possibilities, and help you build a fulfilling and successful career.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are service, perseverance, opportunity, and a commitment to improving the lives of others through education. My journey from being a stay-at-home mother to becoming a teacher at age 40 taught me that it is never too late to pursue a new purpose and make a meaningful contribution. My philosophy, reflected in my personal slogan, “From Classroom to Boardroom,” is rooted in using education as a pathway to stronger economic development and an improved quality of life for students, families, and the broader community. I believe in leading with purpose, advocating for students, and creating opportunities that can positively shape their futures.
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