Category: Press Releases

ACTE Announces North Carolina Assistant Dean of the School of Agriculture & Biological Sciences, as National Award Winner 

 ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced   Robert Jason Davis, Assistant Dean of the School of Agriculture & Biological Sciences at University of Mount Olive, in Mount Olive, NC as the 2026 ACTE Region II Postsecondary Professional of the Year. 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. 

Dr. Jason Davis, a lifelong advocate for agricultural education and leadership, has dedicated his career to serving students, educators, and the agricultural community in North Carolina and beyond. A native of Clinton, NC, in Sampson County, Davis found his passion early through active involvement in the National FFA Organization during high school. 

After earning a B.S. in Agricultural Education from North Carolina State University in 1998, Davis began teaching agriculture at Hobbton High School, where he spent seven and a half years instructing students in Horticulture, Agricultural Mechanics, and Introduction to Agriscience. While teaching, he completed his master’s degree in Agricultural Education in 2003. 

In 2005, Davis was selected to serve as the State FFA Coordinator in the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education at NC State University, leading the North Carolina FFA Association. During this time, he also completed his Doctorate in Agricultural Education. His leadership extended nationally as he served as Southern Region Vice President and later President of the National Association of Supervisors of Agricultural Education (NASAE), Secretary of the National FFA Foundation, and President of the National Council for Agricultural Education (“The Council”). In these roles, Davis championed professional development for NASAE members, broadened award programs, influenced the development of agriculture, forestry, and natural resource standards, strengthened diversity initiatives, and advanced fundraising efforts to meet the needs of a growing student organization. 

In 2020, Davis joined the University of Mount Olive as the Assistant Dean of the School of Agriculture & Biological Sciences, where he continues to guide future educators and foster partnerships with business, industry, and community organizations. His service also includes roles on the NC FFA Board, community college advisory boards, and local organizations such as the Hobbton FFA Alumni and the Westbrook Grange. 

Davis’s commitment to agricultural education began at the grassroots level as a regional vice president of the North Carolina Agriculture Teachers Association, where he helped increase membership to 100%, launched a horticulture supply cooperative for teachers, and supported professional growth opportunities for educators. Throughout his career, he has worked tirelessly to strengthen agricultural education through teaching, state leadership, and higher education. 

Outside of his professional roles, Davis is also a farmer, raising sweet corn, cut flowers, and 1,000 chrysanthemums. He enjoys beekeeping and gardening and is an active member of Hopewell United Methodist Church, the Clinton Rotary Club, and the Benson Masonic Lodge. He also serves as President of both the Westbrook Grange and the Hobbton FFA Alumni. At home, he shares his love of agriculture with his loyal dog, Maggie. 

Davis is one of five finalists for the 2026 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 9, 2025, at 7:00 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.  

ACTE Announces New York Assistant Professor & Work-based Learning Program Coordinator, as National Award Winner  

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Cynthia Thomas, Assistant Professor & Work-based Learning Program Coordinator in the Career & Technical Educator Preparation Department at SUNY Oswego, in Syracuse, NY as the 2026 ACTE Region I Postsecondary Professional of the Year. 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. 

Cynthia Thomas, MSEd, CAS, is a dynamic educator, consultant, and licensed cosmetologist with over 15 years of experience in education and the beauty industry. Known for her leadership, research, and dedication to equity, she plays a vital role in advancing Career and Technical Education (CTE) at the postsecondary level across New York State and beyond. 

Thomas serves as Assistant Professor and Work-Based Learning Program Coordinator at SUNY Oswego, where she connects students to real-world experiences and promotes inclusive, innovative instruction. She is also the founder of Cynthia Thomas Education Consultants (CTE Consultants, LLC). This workforce development company supports postsecondary educators and adult learners through professional development, career coaching, and curriculum design. 

As a doctoral candidate in Learning and Teaching in Social Context at the University at Buffalo, Thomas is conducting her dissertation research, Exploring Culturally Responsive Teaching in Postsecondary Career and Technical Education and Workforce Development, which she is scheduled to defend by the end of the year. Her research examines how culturally responsive practices can transform teaching and learning in CTE programs. In 2024, she was awarded an ECMC Foundation mini-grant to support the creation of a statewide instructional framework designed to strengthen equity and workforce outcomes across New York’s CTE and workforce programs. 

Thomas holds several key leadership roles, including serving as the Post-Secondary Representative for the New York State Trade and Technical Teachers Association (NYSTTTA) and the Career Readiness Educators Association (CREA). She is a member of the NYSACTE board, President of the soon-to-launch New York State Postsecondary Career Education (PACE) extension, and Fellowship Administrator for the inaugural cohort of the NYSACTE Postsecondary State Leaders Fellowship Program, sponsored by Advance CTE and the ECMC Foundation. Additionally, she serves as Alumni Coordinator for the ACTE NextLevel Postsecondary CTE Fellowship. As an alumna of the fellowship herself, Thomas contributed to the development of a community-wide culturally responsive training micro-credential. 

In her local community, Thomas partners with the Syracuse Police Athletic League (Syracuse PAL) to design mentorship and career exploration programs for youth. She also supports new CTE instructors and student teachers in adopting inclusive teaching practices. She has collaborated with Le Moyne College’s ERIE 21 program, SUNY Onondaga Community College, and SUNY Oswego to create and implement workforce readiness initiatives that connect adult learners’ lived experiences to meaningful career opportunities. Her advocacy efforts include contributing to the North Syracuse Central School District’s district-wide root cause analysis and culturally responsive framework developed in partnership with NYU Steinhardt. She continues to work closely with the district to guide revisions to its Code of Conduct. 

Thomas’s leadership continues to drive meaningful changes in CTE at the local, state, and national levels. 

Thomas is one of five finalists for the 2026 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 9, 2025, at 7:00 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.  

ACTE Announces Oregon Teacher as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Leah Ferguson, Teacher at The Dalles High School, in The Dalles, OR as the 2026 ACTE Region V 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.  

Leah Ferguson, a proud graduate of The Dalles Wahtonka High School (now The Dalles High School), has come full circle by returning to teach at the very school where she once walked the graduation stage. In June, she had the distinct honor of serving as commencement speaker, reflecting on her journey from student to educator and celebrating the opportunity to give back to the community that shaped her. 

Before entering education, Ferguson built a dynamic career spanning more than a decade in design and media, creating posters, logos, and presentations for tech companies, government agencies, and even Olympic Gold Medalists. Her professional experiences included traveling across the country to present to large audiences, co-hosting a podcast with more than 50,000 downloads, producing a mini-web series, and managing unique projects such as cataloging and selling a collection of 500 Barbies. Despite these accomplishments, she found herself searching for greater purpose and fulfillment. 

That purpose emerged in education. Inspired by her mother’s work in schools and by opportunities to volunteer and substitute teach, Ferguson discovered a passion for high school education, particularly in Career and Technical Education (CTE). With encouragement from administrators, she recognized how her professional skills aligned with the needs of CTE programs. When a teaching position opened, she seized the opportunity and immediately knew she had found her calling.  

Since then, Ferguson has poured her heart into building a thriving program that grows stronger each year. In addition to teaching, she continues contract work and leads multiple extracurricular activities, including ASB, Graphics Club, Yearbook, and TD Esports, which she helped establish. She also co-leads the Sources of Strength program, serves on the YouthThink Board, and actively seeks opportunities to connect students with their community. Her commitment ensures that students not only gain valuable skills but also develop meaningful relationships and experiences that extend far beyond the classroom. 

Enthusiastic, driven, and deeply invested in her students, Leah Ferguson embodies the spirit of CTE by creating opportunities, building connections, and inspiring the next generation. 

Ferguson is one of five finalists for the 2026 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 9, at 7:00 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.  

ACTE Announces New Mexico Teacher as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Paden Hagler, Energy Instructor at Lovington Municipal Schools, as the 2026 ACTE Region IV 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.   

Paden Hagler, a dedicated educator and industry professional, is making waves in Career and Technical Education (CTE) through his groundbreaking work in energy education at Lovington High School. A native of Texico, New Mexico, Hagler brings deep-rooted passion and a tireless work ethic to everything he does—qualities that have defined his path from a small-town student to a transformative teacher. 

Hagler first discovered his passion for welding while attending Texico High School, where he went on to win a gold medal in the New Mexico FFA Agricultural Mechanics competition and earned Grand Champion honors at the NM State Fair for a custom-built trailer. He stayed close to his roots while attending Eastern New Mexico University, just minutes from his family’s farm, where his focus expanded to leadership and education. 

At ENMU, Hagler held numerous leadership roles, including Collegiate FFA Chapter President, Student Senator, and eventually Student Body Vice President. His contributions earned him the university’s “Student Leader of the Year” award. He graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2018 with a degree in Agricultural Education. 

Following graduation, Hagler spent five years in the oil and gas industry as a welder and emissions specialist. His first-hand experience deepened his respect for the sector and sparked a vision to connect students with careers in energy. When Lovington High School set out to launch an energy program in 2022, Hagler saw the opportunity as a calling. 

Since stepping into the classroom, Hagler has played a key role in developing the Oilfield Pre-Employment Pathway and serves on several multi-state boards for energy education. He also helped establish the school’s SkillsUSA chapter, which has rapidly grown to become the largest Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) in the district. 

With an unwavering commitment to student success, Hagler continues to bridge the gap between industry and education. His work is shaping the next generation of skilled professionals and proving that passion, when paired with purpose, can drive real change. 

Hagler is one of five finalists for the 2026 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 9, at 7:00 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.  

ACTE Announces Illinois Biomedical Sciences Instructor as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Kelly Paige, Biomedical Sciences Instructor at Alton Community Unit District #11 in Alton, IL, as the 2026 ACTE Region III 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.  

Kelly Paige is a dedicated educator and passionate advocate for career and technical education (CTE), bringing a wealth of industry experience and a deep commitment to student success. She holds degrees in Animal Science from the University of Illinois and Veterinary Technology from Purdue University. Before transitioning to education, Kelly spent 17 years working in veterinary medicine, where she discovered a natural talent for mentoring and training future veterinary technicians and students. 

In the 2023–2024 school year, Kelly joined the Alton School District as a teacher at Alton High School, where she leads the Biomedical Sciences pathway within the CTE department. Her hands-on, rigorous curriculum prepares students for careers in healthcare by blending classroom instruction with real-world applications. 

Kelly has been instrumental in revitalizing the school’s Biomedical Sciences program, which had previously been discontinued. Under her leadership, the program has grown significantly, prompting the addition of a second instructor for the upcoming school year. Her efforts focus on career readiness, technical skill development, and aligning student experiences with the needs of today’s healthcare industry. 

In addition to her work in the classroom, Kelly serves as the advisor for Alton High School’s HOSA chapter, supporting students in leadership and professional development opportunities within the health sciences. She also co-sponsors Students on the Run, a student-led organization that fosters wellness and resilience through running. 

Paige is one of five finalists for the 2026 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 9, at 7:00 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.  

ACTE Announces Virginia Teacher as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Michelle Hill Williams, Teacher at Mathews County Public Schools in Mathews, VA as the 2026 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.  

After the challenges of teaching online during COVID, Michelle Hill Williams knew she needed a new direction in her career. In March 2022, she passed the additional licensure test to teach Family and Consumer Science (FACS)—formerly known as Home Economics—and by May of that year, her principal proposed adding FACS classes to the middle school elective rotation. 

At the time, no funds were allocated to support the program. Determined to make it a reality, Williams began building relationships with individuals and organizations who shared her vision of bringing “back to the basics” skills to students. With approval from the administration and school board, she rallied a small team of volunteers to transform the classroom—painting walls, refurbishing cabinetry, and creating a welcoming space in just three days. 

To further equip the program, Williams created an Amazon Wish List and shared it on social media. Packages soon poured in from community members, former classmates, and even strangers, donating thousands of dollars in supplies. Over time, more than $80,000 in donations has been received to establish the FACS program and fully fund student participation in leadership conferences. Her students have attended the Virginia State Leadership and Recognition Conference for three consecutive years and the FCCLA National Leadership Conference in Seattle, Orlando, and beyond—earning awards at every event. 

Beyond the classroom, Williams has shared the story of her program with civic groups and community organizations, including the Ruritan Club, Bay Quilters Association, and Central Village Homemakers Association, as well as serving as a guest speaker at the annual MayFaire Festival. 

This year, she is leading the expansion of the program into a larger space at Mathews High School, complete with new appliances and four fully equipped kitchen stations. While continuing to teach middle school students, Williams will now offer a broader range of courses to high school students, including Independent Living Skills, Nutrition and Wellness, and Family and Consumer Science Exploratory I, II, and III. 

Through her vision, persistence, and community partnerships, Williams has not only built a thriving Family and Consumer Science program from the ground up but also created lasting opportunities for students to gain practical skills and leadership experience. 

Williams is one of five finalists for the 2026 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 9, at 7:00 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.  

ACTE Announces Maryland Electricity Teacher as National Award Finalist 

 ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Rick Villano, Electricity Teacher at Calvert County Public Schools in Prince Frederick, MD, as the 2026 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.  

As a proud graduate of the Calvert Career and Technology Academy’s electrical program, Rick Villano II never imagined he would one day return, not as a student, but as the program’s instructor. After spending decades in the electrical industry and earning the titles of journeyman and Master electrician, Rick brought in his deep expertise and passion for the trade full circle when he stepped in to save the very program that helped launch his career. 

While working at the main office of IBEW Local #26, Rick learned that the electrical program at Calvert was at risk of shutting down due to the lack of an instructor. Encouraged by his supervisor and motivated by a strong sense of community responsibility, Rick accepted the challenge. Under his leadership, the program not only survived—it thrived. “We are now back on course and moving forward with a full head of steam,” he proudly shared. 

Rick holds a wide array of industry certifications, including LOTO (Lockout Tagout), Confined Space, First Aid, CPR, NICET (Fire Alarm), BICSI (Teledata), Train the Trainer, and Electrical Safe Work Practices, among others. His credentials are matched only by his commitment to his students and to building a future generation of skilled professionals. 

Rick is quick to credit the collaborative spirit behind his success. “I would like to state this is not a ‘me’ award. This is an ‘us’ award,” he emphasized. “It truly does take a village. We have great support from school administration, teachers, and maintenance staff.” He was especially moved to share the news with his students, sending them an urgent email to come in early the next day. When they arrived, he told them about the award—and that it was their dedication, belief in the program, and hard work that made the recognition possible. 

“They bought into our program, and they made us successful,” Rick said. His story is a testament to the power of community, mentorship, and coming home to give back. 

Villano is one of five finalists for the 2026 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 9, at 7:00 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.  

ACTE Announces Arizona Director of Professional Development as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Curt Bertelsen, Director of Professional Development at Pima Joint Technical Education District in Tucson, AZ, as the 2026 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.  

Curt Bertelsen is a lifelong educator and leader in Career and Technical Education (CTE), dedicated to empowering industry professionals to become skilled educators. With over four decades of experience, Curt has made a lasting impact on Arizona’s CTE landscape. He spent 23 years teaching Agriscience at Flowing Wells High School, where his program earned national recognition as exemplary. Since 2007, he has served as the Director of Professional Development at Pima JTED, where he continues to champion teacher excellence and innovation. 

Curt’s leadership extends beyond the classroom. He has twice served as President of the Association for Career and Technical Education – Arizona, and he founded both the Arizona CTE Curriculum Consortium and the Premier Series Teacher Training Program. These initiatives have elevated teacher preparation, improved retention, and standardized curriculum across the state. A respected presenter at local, state, and national conferences, Curt’s work has helped shape the future of CTE through advocacy, collaboration, and visionary leadership. 

Curt and his wife Ann live in Tucson, AZ and enjoy their three adult children and their families. 

Bertelsen is one of five finalists for the 2026 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 9, at 7:00 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.  

ACTE Announces Mississippi Retired CTE Director as National Award Finalist 

 ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Rex Buckhaults, Retired CTE Director at Jones County Career & Technical Center in Laurel, MS as the 2026 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.  

Rex Buckhaults has built a distinguished career dedicated to advancing high-quality Career and Technical Education (CTE) and ensuring student success. Recognized nationally and regionally for his leadership, including being named the 2019 ACTE Region IV Administrator of the Year and a 2020 ACTE National Finalist. Buckhaults has served in influential roles such as President of MS ACTE (2017–19), MS ACTE Member of the Year (2018–19), and a member of the ACTE Audit Committee, Region IV Policy Committee, and multiple advisory boards for the Mississippi State Department of Career and Technical Education. 

His leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that student success comes from programs that are both academically rigorous and aligned with real-world workforce demands. Buckhaults has been instrumental in developing CTE curricula that integrate academic knowledge with technical skills, preparing students for both postsecondary education and high-demand careers. 

A cornerstone of his work has been building strong partnerships with business, industry, and community stakeholders. These collaborations have created valuable work-based learning opportunities, internships, and apprenticeships that give students hands-on experiences and practical skills directly applicable in the workforce. At the state level, Buckhaults has worked with policymakers to secure funding, launch statewide initiatives, and implement best practices that elevate CTE across Mississippi. 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Buckhaults has demonstrated resilience and community leadership, guiding Perry County Schools’ recovery after Hurricane Katrina, supporting FFA programs, serving on the Jones County School Board, and contributing to numerous agricultural and civic initiatives. Under his leadership, CTE centers have seen improved graduation rates, increased postsecondary enrollment, and strong job placement outcomes. 

Through visionary leadership, strategic partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Rex Buckhaults has left a lasting impact on the CTE landscape in Mississippi and beyond—benefiting countless students, educators, and communities. 

Buckhaults is one of five finalists for the 2026 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 9, at 7:00 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.  

ACTE Announces Indiana CTE Professional as National Award Finalist 

 ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Jay Davis, Retired CTE Professional in Kokomo, IN, as the 2026 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.  

Jay Davis has dedicated more than 25 years to advancing Career and Technical Education (CTE) through his leadership, service, and advocacy at the state, regional, and national levels. A retired CTE professional, Davis has been recognized throughout his career for his commitment to strengthening CTE programs, supporting educators, and creating opportunities for students. 

After leaving private business to enter the classroom in 1999, Davis quickly established himself as a leader in the field. In 2003, he was named both the Indiana ACTE and ACTE Region III Outstanding New Career and Technical Teacher. Over the years, he served as a secondary CTE instructor, adjunct post-secondary instructor, and secondary CTE administrator, always demonstrating his passion for empowering educators and students through CTE. 

Davis played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Indiana Association for Career and Technical Education (IACTE) during a critical period in the early 2000s. As Indiana Region III Representative (2004–2008) and later as IACTE President for two terms (2009–2010), he worked to stabilize the organization, expand membership, and improve financial sustainability. His decade-long leadership on the IACTE Board left a lasting impact on Indiana’s CTE community. 

At the regional and national levels, Davis’ influence was equally significant. He served on the Region III Policy Board, co-chaired the 2006 Region III Conference, and received the Region III Award of Merit the same year. His national service included 14 years on ACTE’s Engineering and Technology Education Division (ETED) Policy Board, where he later became Policy Chair and Division Vice-President on the ACTE National Board of Directors (2017–2020). His leadership helped shape national policies and strengthen professional opportunities for CTE educators. In 2014, his contributions were honored with the ETED Distinguished Service Award. 

Davis also played a vital role in ACTE governance, chairing the Bylaws Committee in 2013, where he spearheaded the redesign and unification of Region and Division Policy Handbooks to bring consistency across ACTE’s structure. Beyond ACTE, he served on advisory boards for Kokomo School Corporation, Ivy Tech Community College, and the Indiana Department of Education, where his work on curriculum and professional standards advanced CTE pathways statewide. 

Today, Davis continues to champion the profession as a member of the ACTE Retirees Advisory Board. His career reflects an unwavering commitment to building strong CTE programs, supporting educators, and ensuring students have pathways to success. His colleagues and peers describe him as a true champion for career and technical education whose leadership has left a lasting legacy. 

Davis is one of five finalists for the 2026 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 9, at 7:00 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.