Category: Press Releases

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Ciarra D. Malto, Aerospace Science Instructor at Cherokee County School District in Woodstock, GA as the 2027 ACTE Region II New Teacher of the Year. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) teachers at the middle/secondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities.  

Retired U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant Ciarra D. Malto brings her experience as a military leader, mentor, and educator to her role as Aerospace Science Instructor at Etowah High School, where she has served since 2021. Through her leadership of the Air Force JROTC program, she provides 180 students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, explore aerospace science and citizenship, serve their community, and participate in a wide range of extracurricular and competitive activities. 

Under Sergeant Malto’s leadership, students are encouraged to challenge themselves both inside and outside the classroom. The program supports a variety of activities, including color guard, drill, honor guard, riflery, marksmanship, aerial drone competitions, and hiking. Students also participate in a week-long summer cadet leadership camp and contribute thousands of hours of community service to the local community each year. 

Sergeant Malto’s commitment to excellence is especially evident through the success of her teams. She coaches Etowah High School’s riflery team and the Air Force JROTC marksmanship team, which ranked fourth nationally in 2026 after earning a third-place national ranking in 2025. She also coaches the program’s highly visible color guard team, whose professionalism and performances throughout Georgia recently earned recognition from Governor Brian Kemp at the Governor’s Workforce Summit. 

Beyond her work at Etowah, Sergeant Malto contributes to the broader CTE community through her leadership with the Georgia Association for Career and Technical Education. As chair of the Activities Committee for the JROTC Division, she oversees the scheduling and results of Raider and Drill competitions throughout the state, helping provide students from across Georgia with opportunities to compete, demonstrate leadership, and build teamwork. 

Sergeant Malto’s dedication to her students and her profession has earned significant recognition. She is a three-time recipient of the Outstanding Instructor Award and was named her sub-region’s 2025 Instructor of the Year and 2026 Instructor of the Year. She was also named Georgia’s 2025 JROTC New Teacher of the Year, Georgia’s 2025 All-CTE New Teacher of the Year, and Etowah High School’s 2025 Teacher of the Year in December 2025. 

Before beginning her career in education, Sergeant Malto served with distinction in the United States Air Force, specializing in bomber aircraft maintenance and serving in a variety of leadership positions and deployments. Her military service included being named Air Force Honor Guard Member of the Year from more than 2,500 Airmen nationwide. She was later selected for a critical administrative assignment supporting the Wing Commander and Command Chief at Edwards Air Force Base, where her leadership, innovation, and professionalism earned her the Meritorious Service Medal. 

Sergeant Malto continues to bring the values of leadership, service, teamwork, and excellence from her military career into the classroom. Through her commitment to student leadership and hands-on experiences, she prepares students not only for their next steps after high school but also to become confident, responsible, and engaged members of their communities. 

Malto is one of five finalists for the 2027 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 2, at 6:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Scott O’Dell, Aviation Maintenance Instructor at Northwest Education Services Career Tech, in Traverse City, MI, as the 2027 ACTE Region I New Teacher of the Year. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) teachers at the middle/secondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities.  

Scott O’Dell has quickly made a remarkable impact in Career and Technical Education through his leadership, industry expertise, and commitment to preparing students for success in the aviation industry. As an Aviation Maintenance instructor at Northwest Education Services Career Tech, he has transformed a new program into a thriving, state-of-the-art training facility that is preparing the next generation of aviation technicians for high-demand careers. 

Before entering education, O’Dell built an impressive career in aviation, spending 15 years in the fast-paced world of commercial air freight with Kalitta Air. His career is a testament to determination and lifelong learning. He began as a janitor for the airline before receiving on-the-job training as a Mechanic’s Helper. After earning his Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certifications in 2008, he advanced through a series of leadership positions, serving as a Lead Technician, Hangar Foreman, Acting Project Manager, and Instructor. In these roles, he developed and delivered training for employees at every level, from newly hired technicians to middle management, while continuing to build the technical expertise and leadership skills that now serve as the foundation of his teaching. 

Now in his third year of teaching Aviation Maintenance, O’Dell has been the driving force behind building the program from the ground up. Through his vision, dedication, and strong industry connections, the program has grown significantly and earned recognition as a cutting-edge training facility. His students benefit from learning in an environment that reflects real-world aviation standards and expectations, helping them transition confidently into postsecondary training and careers. 

A key part of O’Dell’s success has been his ability to build strong partnerships within the aviation community, particularly at Cherry Capital Airport and with local businesses. He has worked diligently to connect students with a wide range of opportunities in aviation, including general aviation, aircraft charter, airline operations, military aviation, airport services, and manufacturing. Students are introduced to postsecondary training facilities, local employers, and certified A&P mechanics, giving them opportunities to observe, ask questions, and participate in job shadowing experiences across multiple areas of the industry. 

O’Dell also brings valuable guest speakers into the classroom, including representatives from the Federal Aviation Administration, helping students understand not only the technical side of aviation but also the regulatory and governance aspects of the field. These experiences allow students to gain a deeper understanding of the aviation industry and make informed decisions about their future career paths. 

Known for his strong content knowledge and ability to connect with students, O’Dell uses a variety of teaching methods to meet student needs and ensure meaningful learning takes place. His hands-on instruction, combined with real-world demonstrations and exposure to industry professionals, helps students build both confidence and competence in a highly specialized field. 

O’Dell’s passion for aviation, commitment to student success, and innovative leadership continue to strengthen Career and Technical Education while preparing students for successful careers in the aviation industry. These accomplishments have led to his advancement to the national level for the ACTE New Teacher of the Year Award. 

O’Dell is one of five finalists for the 2027 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 2, at 6:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Mark Wagner, Assistant State Director at North Dakota Career and Technical Education in Bismarck, ND, as the 2027 ACTE Region V Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame Award Recipient. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators at the middle/secondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities.  

Mark Wagner has made significant and lasting contributions to the advancement of high-quality Career and Technical Education (CTE), consistently placing student success at the center of his work. His career spans classroom instruction, administrative leadership, statewide policy development, and systems reform, making him a driving force behind transformative change in CTE across North Dakota. 

Throughout his career, Wagner has served in a wide range of educational roles, including CTE instructor in two program areas, adjunct instructor for North Dakota State University and North Dakota State College of Science, administrator at both Class A and Class B schools, and director of an area CTE center. His experience teaching both secondary and adult learners has given him a broad perspective on workforce preparation and student achievement. 

He began his career in Agricultural Education, where he developed a student-centered philosophy that combined academic rigor with meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. During his 24 years at Beulah Public Schools, he served as an Agricultural Education instructor, Director of Technology, Assistant Principal, and Cisco Networking Academy instructor. He later served for eight years as director of the North Valley Area Career and Technology Center in Grafton, where he continued expanding opportunities for students through innovative CTE programming. 

Most recently, Wagner served for ten years as North Dakota’s CTE Assistant State Director before retiring last July. In this role, he played a key part in overhauling the state’s student accountability system for CTE programs. His leadership improved transparency, strengthened data integrity, and created more effective methods for evaluating program success and student outcomes. 

A strong advocate for CTE at both the state and national levels, Wagner is a past president of NDCTEA and NDCTEA Administrators. He has also chaired and served in numerous leadership roles within Association for Career and Technical Education and on influential state boards, including the North Dakota Council of Educational Leaders. Through these positions, he collaborated with legislators and education leaders to advance CTE priorities, strengthen alignment across programs, modernize standards, and support implementation of the federal Perkins V Act. 

Wagner’s career reflects an extraordinary combination of visionary leadership, policy expertise, and dedication to student success. From modernizing facilities and curriculum to shaping statewide systems, his contributions have elevated the quality, accessibility, and long-term impact of Career and Technical Education throughout North Dakota. 

Wagner is one of five finalists for the 2027 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 2, at 6:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Carrie Hernandez, Federal Programs/Curriculum and Community Specialist at Hatch Valley Public Schools, in Hatch, NM, as the 2027 ACTE Region IV Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame Award Recipient. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators at the middle/secondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities.  

Carrie L. Hernandez has dedicated more than 25 years to advancing Career and Technical Education (CTE) through leadership, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to expanding opportunities for students across New Mexico. A first-generation college graduate, Carrie has built a career grounded in perseverance, community engagement, and the belief that education can transform lives. 

Carrie earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agriculture Extension Education from New Mexico State University, along with a K–12 Educational Leadership certification. She began her professional journey at New Mexico State University, where she supported Cooperative Education and career readiness initiatives designed to help students successfully transition from the classroom to the workforce. Her early work in agriculture literacy, student mentorship, and community outreach laid the foundation for a lifelong dedication to strengthening CTE programs and partnerships. 

As a secondary educator at Las Cruces High School, Carrie transformed the agriculture program by expanding enrollment, creating industry-aligned pathways, and securing dual-credit and industry certification opportunities for students. Her leadership helped bridge the gap between education and workforce needs by building strong partnerships among schools, industry leaders, and community organizations. Through her innovative work, she also contributed to the development of New Mexico’s first statewide CTE course codes and instructional frameworks. 

Carrie’s impact extended statewide during her service with the New Mexico Public Education Department, where she supported 23 school districts, including 22 tribal communities. In this role, she worked to ensure CTE programs met federal standards while honoring the cultural and regional needs of the communities they served. Her leadership helped establish New Mexico’s framework for industry-recognized certifications and strengthened the role and visibility of Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) throughout the state. 

After returning to Las Cruces Public Schools, Carrie helped redesign the district’s CTE programs and work-based learning system while co-developing a K–12 career feeder model that created stronger pathways for student success. Currently serving Hatch Valley Public Schools, she continues to advocate for equitable access to federal programs, dual-credit opportunities, and community resources that support rural students and families. 

Throughout her career, Carrie has remained deeply committed to student-centered CTE and the philosophy of “Living to Serve.” She continues to honor the educators, mentors, and communities that shaped her journey while working to ensure every student has the opportunity to discover their purpose, pursue meaningful career pathways, and achieve success. 

Hernandez is one of five finalists for the 2027 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 2, at 6:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced 
James Greenan, Professor Emeritus of Career and Technical Education in Lafayette, IN, as the 2027 ACTE Region III Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame Award Recipient. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators at the middle/secondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities.  

Dr. James Greenan has dedicated more than 40 years to advancing career and technical education through exemplary leadership, research, and higher education. As Professor and Chair of Career and Technical Education in Purdue University’s Department of Curriculum and Instruction, he has played a pivotal role in preparing future CTE educators and leaders while strengthening the profession through innovation, scholarship, and service. 

Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Greenan has helped shape the evolution of career and technical education. Since joining Purdue University in 1985, he has served in several leadership roles, guiding the program’s transformation from Vocational and Technical Education to Career and Technical Education to reflect the changing needs of today’s workforce and educational landscape. His leadership has fostered faculty development, graduate education, program innovation, and the preparation of countless CTE leaders, including many career center directors throughout Indiana. 

A nationally recognized researcher, Dr. Greenan’s work has significantly influenced the field of career and technical education. His research focuses on research methodology and program evaluation, with additional contributions in career development, leadership development, teacher preparation, special populations, and workforce readiness. Through numerous scholarly publications, he has advanced understanding in areas including emotional intelligence in computer-based instruction, aeronautical decision making, and factors influencing career choice. He also served as editor of Career and Technical Education Research, helping to elevate the quality and impact of CTE scholarship nationwide. 

Dr. Greenan’s unwavering commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and leadership has left a lasting impact on the career and technical education profession. Through his dedication to developing future educators, advancing research, and strengthening CTE programs, he continues to inspire and influence the next generation of leaders while helping ensure learners are prepared for successful careers and lifelong achievement. 

Greenan is one of five finalists for the 2027 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 2, at 6:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced 
Marty Tobey, Retired Assistant Director for Regional Services and Reporting in Archdale, NC, as the 2027 ACTE Region II Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame Award Recipient. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators at the middle/secondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities.  

With more than 32 years of experience in education, Marty Tobey has dedicated his career to strengthening Career and Technical Education and expanding opportunities for students to participate in high-quality programs that prepare them for college and careers. His career has included roles as a business and marketing teacher, community college instructor, instructional technology specialist, Director of Career and Technical Education, Director of High Schools, and statewide CTE leader with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI). 

Throughout his career, Marty has demonstrated commitment to educational leadership, continuous improvement, and using data and research to strengthen CTE programs. At NCDPI, he served as a CTE Regional Coordinator, Section Chief, and Assistant Director for CTE Regional Services and Reporting. In his role as Assistant Director, he provided leadership and support to regional services and reporting staff while focusing on educational leadership, data and analysis, Perkins funding and fiscal policy, and support for new and aspiring CTE administrators. 

Marty has played a significant role in the development and implementation of statewide CTE initiatives in North Carolina. His work has included leading the research, development, and implementation of Career Pathways; developing and implementing CTE program evaluation instruments; and leading the development and implementation of the North Carolina CTE Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment. His work has helped educators and administrators evaluate programs, identify areas for improvement, strengthen partnerships, and better align CTE programs with postsecondary and workforce needs. 

His contributions also include the development of statewide resources designed to support high-quality CTE programs and educators. Marty has published resources including High-Quality CTE Programs through Business Engagement and the NC Career Pathways Facilitator Guide. His research and professional interests have focused on effective Career Pathway implementation, CTE program evaluation and measurement, and identifying the characteristics of high-quality CTE programs. 

Marty’s leadership and expertise have been recognized throughout his career. He has been named Teacher of the Year and Manager of the Year and earned National Board Certification in Early Adolescence to Young Adulthood: Career and Technical Education. He also holds a master’s degree in marketing education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, along with School Administration and Career and Technical Education Director’s licenses. 

Although Marty retired from NCDPI in March 2024, his commitment to CTE continues.  He has been involved with the North Carolina CTE Teacher of the Year leadership development and recognition program and continues to actively engage in North Carolina’s CTE leadership development initiatives, serving CTE teachers and support services educators across the state.  In addition, he serves as an adjunct instructor in CTE Administration and Program Supervision at East Carolina University, where he helps prepare and develop the next generation of CTE leaders.  

Through more than three decades of service, Marty has made a lasting impact on CTE educators, administrators, programs, and students. His work has helped shape systems and resources that support high-quality CTE and ensure that students have access to meaningful opportunities that prepare them for success beyond high school. His continued service reflects a lifelong commitment to advancing Career and Technical Education and helping all students become college and career ready. 

Marty is one of five finalists for the 2027 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 2, at 6:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Debra Miller, Retired Executive Board Member at Michigan Department of Education: Office of Career and Technical Education in Lansing, MI, as the 2027 ACTE Region I Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame Award Recipient. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators at the middle/secondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities.  

Throughout her distinguished career, Deb Miller has demonstrated visionary leadership, an unwavering commitment to student success, and a lasting impact on Career and Technical Education (CTE) across Michigan. Her dedication to strengthening CTE systems at the local, regional, and state levels has created meaningful opportunities for students, educators, and communities, leaving a legacy of excellence that continues to shape the future of career education. 

Deb began her career as a high school English teacher, quickly earning a reputation for building strong connections with students while maintaining high expectations for academic success. Motivated by her belief in the power of applied learning, she earned CTE certification in Information Technology and later obtained administrative certification, expanding both her instructional expertise and leadership capacity. As a CTE instructor, she created rigorous, relevant learning environments aligned to industry needs while integrating technical skill development with communication, creativity, and critical thinking. 

With more than 21 years of leadership experience in secondary CTE, Deb advanced into key administrative roles focused on improving systems, strengthening compliance, and expanding student access to high-quality programs. She led Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) Self-Reviews and Technical Review, Assistance, and Compliance (TRAC) reviews, working closely with teachers to ensure program quality and continuous improvement. 

At Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency (KRESA), Deb served as CTE Administrator, Career Education Planning District (CEPD) Director, Executive Director of Career and Technical Education, and ultimately Assistant Superintendent. She strengthened partnerships among K-12 districts, postsecondary institutions, and employers while championing equitable access to high-quality CTE programs. 

In a shared role with Kalamazoo Valley Community College, she served as Associate Vice President and helped develop the countywide Early Middle College program, expanding dual-enrollment opportunities and creating stronger pathways between high school, college, and careers. 

Following her retirement from KRESA, Deb continued her statewide impact as Supervisor of the Career Readiness Unit within the Office of Career and Technical Education at the Michigan Department of Education. There, she supported policy development, program approval, accountability processes, and educators across the state to ensure Michigan’s CTE programs remained innovative and student-centered. 

Deb’s contributions to Michigan ACTE have also been significant. As Legislative Co-Chair, she helped develop the Michigan Legislative Toolkit, strengthening advocacy efforts and helping members engage effectively with policymakers. She also played an important role in developing professional development opportunities for educators across the state. 

Known for her collaborative leadership style, student-centered focus, and tireless dedication to advancing CTE, Deb consistently went above and beyond to ensure programs were both compliant and impactful. Her extraordinary contributions have strengthened CTE across Michigan and continue to inspire future leaders in the profession. 

Deb Miller’s career reflects the highest ideals of Career and Technical Education—service, leadership, innovation, and results. Her extraordinary contributions have strengthened CTE across Michigan and continue to inspire future leaders in the profession. 

Miller is one of five finalists for the 2027 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 2, at 6:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Pepper Poulsen, Career and Technical Education Coordinator at Jordan School District, in South Jordan, UT as the 2027 ACTE Region V Counseling and Career Development Professional. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators at the postsecondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities. 

With a career spanning 27 years, Pepper Poulsen has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to student success and educational excellence. Throughout her career, she has served in several impactful roles, each reflecting her passion for helping students grow academically, personally, and professionally. 

Pepper began her career as a classroom teacher, where she developed a strong foundation in creating engaging and meaningful learning experiences. Her ability to connect with students and foster a positive learning environment quickly became one of her greatest strengths. 

As a Work-Based Learning Coordinator, Pepper played a vital role in connecting classroom instruction with real-world career experiences. She created valuable opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience, helping them apply their knowledge and prepare for future careers. 

In her role as School Counselor, Pepper provided guidance and support to students as they navigated academic challenges and personal growth. Her compassionate approach and dedication to student well-being made her a trusted and essential resource for students and families alike. 

As a Career and Technical Education (CTE) Coordinator, Pepper has been a strong advocate for programs that equip students with the technical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s workforce. Her leadership has helped ensure students have access to high-quality, relevant educational opportunities that prepare them for competitive career pathways. 

Additionally, as a Concurrent Enrollment Coordinator, Pepper has worked to create partnerships that allow students to earn college credits while still in high school, giving them a head start on higher education and helping create a smoother transition to college. 

Through every role she has held, Pepper Poulsen has remained dedicated to empowering students, supporting colleagues, and building educational programs that create lasting opportunities for success. 

Poulsen is one of five finalists for the 2027 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 2, at 6:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced
Robyn O’Bryan, Counselor at Marion ISD, in Marion, TX as the 2027 ACTE Region IV Counseling and Career Development Professional. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators at the postsecondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities. 

Robyn O’Bryan, M.Ed., LAT, has dedicated 37 years to education as a counselor, educator, coach, and advocate for student success. As a veteran high school counselor and College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) advisor at Marion High School in Marion, Texas, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to expanding student access to high-wage, high-skill, and in-demand career opportunities through Career and Technical Education (CTE). 

Since 2012, Robyn has led the alignment and development of 16 CTE programs of study for a campus serving approximately 530 students. She has worked diligently to ensure programs meet rigorous state academic standards while integrating industry-recognized certifications that prepare students for both college and career success. 

Through strategic partnerships with local businesses, economic development councils, and postsecondary institutions, including Texas State Technical College and Palo Alto College—Robyn has helped create valuable opportunities for students to participate in internships, job shadowing, dual-credit programs, and workforce training. These partnerships have expanded student access to career pathways in health science, information technology, welding, agricultural mechanics, digital media, and other high-demand industries. 

Robyn also played a key role in advocating for a $78.8 million bond initiative that funded the construction of a state-of-the-art CTE facility featuring a culinary center, robotics arena, and advanced manufacturing labs. Her leadership and vision have contributed to significant student achievement and credential attainment, helping increase industry certification completion from just four IT certifications in 2017 to a projected 130 certifications by May 2026. 

In addition to her program leadership, Robyn has supported district compliance and continuous improvement efforts by assisting with Methods of Administration (MOA) site visits in 2016 and 2023. Her dedication to ensuring equitable access and high-quality educational opportunities has strengthened both student outcomes and district programs. 

Earlier in her career, Robyn served as a middle school counselor and spent many years as a teacher, coach, and licensed athletic trainer in multiple Texas school districts. She earned a Master of Education degree from Tarleton State University and a School Counseling Certification from Texas A&M University–San Antonio. She is certified as a School Counselor by the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) and is also a Licensed Athletic Trainer in Texas. 

An active member of the Career and Technical Association of Texas (CTAT) and the Texas School Counselor Association, Robyn was named Marion ISD Teacher of the Year and remains deeply committed to professional service, community outreach, and student advocacy. Through her leadership, innovation, and dedication to student success, she continues to make a lasting impact on career and technical education in Texas and beyond. 

O’Bryan is one of five finalists for the 2027 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 2, at 6:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Alison Johnson FCS Teacher/Work-Based Learning Coordinator at Moorhead Area Public Schools in Moorhead, MN as the 2027 ACTE Region III Counseling and Career Development Professional. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators at the postsecondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities. 

Alison Johnson serves as the Work-Based Learning Coordinator and Family and Consumer Sciences educator at the Moorhead High School Career Academy, where she prepares students in grades 9-12 for successful careers by connecting classroom learning with meaningful work-based experiences. Drawing on her previous career as a social worker, Johnson brings a student-centered, empathetic approach to career development, helping students build the confidence, professionalism, and workplace skills needed to succeed. 

Johnson has transformed work-based learning opportunities by developing strong partnerships with local employers and connecting students with high-wage, high-skill, and high-demand careers. Through innovative experiences such as mock interviews with business and industry professionals, she helps students develop professional readiness while giving them valuable real-world experience before entering the workforce. Her efforts have equipped students with the confidence, communication skills, and career focus needed to successfully transition from the classroom to employment. 

Known as a tireless advocate for career and technical education, Johnson actively promotes the value of CTE throughout her community while building relationships that expand opportunities for students. Her extensive network of business and industry partners has created a seamless bridge between education and employment, making it easier for students to explore career pathways and secure meaningful workplace experiences. 

Johnson’s leadership has had a lasting impact on both students and educators. By connecting students to career opportunities, fostering professional skills, and strengthening partnerships between schools and employers, she has become a catalyst for student success and continues to inspire the next generation of skilled professionals. 

 Johnson is one of five finalists for the 2027 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 2, at 6:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities.