Kurt Cantlon is the Executive Director of the Pursuit Institute. Prior to joining The Pursuit Institute, Kurt worked in Career and Technical Education as the Director for Wildcat Creek Career Cooperative.  Over the course of his career, Kurt has worked with youth from all different situations and backgrounds throughout Central Indiana.  He started his career as a probation officer and worked in mental health prior to becoming a school counselor.  He has worked in education for the past 14 years as a counselor and administrator. 

As Director for Wildcat Creek Career Cooperative Kurt worked to expand programming options for students, build partnerships with industry, and provide students opportunities to gain hands on experiences in career fields of interest.  He has worked, both as a counselor and administrator, with students to encourage being intentional and active participants in planning for their future through the courses and experiences that they select.  Along with industry partners like Frito Lay, Kurt worked to develop relationships with city and county government, economic development, not-for-profit organizations like Bauer Family Resources and United Way, and Ivy Tech Community College to drive career development for students. 

Kurt is a graduate of Westfield High School and lives in Hamilton County with his wife and 2 boys.  His wife works for Sheridan High School and his boys attend Hamilton Heights Schools.  He received his undergraduate degree from Hanover College.  He holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Counselor Education from IUPUI and he completed his Administration License coursework through Purdue University.