Category: Press Releases

ACTE Announces West Virginia Assistant Superintendent as  National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Clinton Burch, Assistant Superintendent, at West Virginia Department of Education in Charleston, WV as the 2026 ACTE Region I Carl Perkins Community Service Award. 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. 

Clinton Burch, Assistant Superintendent at the West Virginia Department of Education, has dedicated his career to building strong, sustainable connections between education and the community. A native of Huntington, West Virginia, and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Burch brings a unique blend of service, leadership, and strategic vision to his role in public education. 

Throughout his career, Burch has been instrumental in forming statewide partnerships that enhance Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities for students. By working collaboratively with the Department of Commerce, the West Virginia Manufacturers Association, and local development authorities, he has helped align education with workforce needs, creating pathways that support student success and strengthen community involvement in schools. 

His commitment to innovation and community impact is reflected in several statewide initiatives. One of the most notable, Big Hearts Give Tiny Homes, engaged CTE students and educators in constructing and furnishing homes for families affected by natural disasters across the state. He also co-created the Simulated Workplace model, transforming traditional classrooms into professional environments where students experience real-world expectations. In addition, Burch is the architect of EPIC (Economic Projects Impacting Communities), a statewide initiative that empowers students to apply their technical skills toward solving local challenges. 

Burch’s leadership is driven by a core belief: when education is meaningfully connected to the needs of the community, students become empowered to create lasting, positive change. Through his vision and dedication, he continues to inspire students to exceed expectations, invest in their communities, and lead with purpose. 

Whether she’s guiding students through community service initiatives or supporting colleagues through mentorship, Heather Monks exemplifies the spirit of education that extends far beyond the classroom. Her legacy is defined by strong relationships, meaningful learning experiences, and a lifelong dedication to empowering others through service. 

Burch 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 Program Director as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Tina Gudvangen, Program Director at Cochise Technology District in Willcox, AZ, as the 2026 ACTE Region V Administrator of the Year. This award recognizes administrative career and technical education (CTE) professionals at the school, district, county, state or federal level who have demonstrated leadership in ensuring teacher and student success and have made significant contributions toward innovative, unique and effective career and technical education programs.  

With a lifelong passion for hands-on learning and career readiness, Tina Gudvangen has dedicated her career to expanding access to high-quality Career and Technical Education (CTE), particularly in rural communities. From her roots on a farm in North Dakota to her current role as Program Director for the Cochise Technology District (CTD) in southeastern Arizona, Gudvangen’s leadership has transformed opportunities for students across the region. 

Gudvangen’s journey into CTE began in high school with a bookkeeping class that sparked her interest in business. This led to a 20+ year teaching career, during which she taught accounting, marketing, economics, and technology. As an FBLA advisor, she empowered students to become leaders, serve their communities, and achieve success at regional, state, and national levels. 

Later, as a district-level CTE Director, Gudvangen provided leadership across 10 CTE programs—managing budgets, driving professional development, and using data to strengthen program effectiveness. 

Since 2013, Gudvangen has served as Program Director for CTD, where she has dramatically expanded CTE programming across 11-member high schools. Under her leadership, the district has grown from offering just one program to 11, including pathways in patient care tech, behavioral health, cybersecurity, law enforcement, welding, HVAC, and automotive technology. She also launched an annual event to strengthen collaboration between school counselors and CTE directors, recognizing the key role both play in helping students prepare for meaningful careers. 

Gudvangen’s commitment to early career exposure led her to launch a middle school initiative, recruiting “CTE Champions” and implementing career exploration curriculum across 15 feeder schools in the county—ensuring students begin thinking about their futures long before high school. 

A 13-year charter member of the ACTE Arizona Premier Series Team, Gudvangen continues to train and mentor educators statewide in instructional best practices, program management, advisory councils, and CTSO development. Her work is opening doors for students across Arizona—and setting a standard for leadership in CTE. 

Gudvangen 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 Texas Director of Career and Technical Education as 

National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Dr. Donna Prudhomme, Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE) at Beaumont ISD in Beaumont, TX as the 2026 ACTE Region IV Administrator of the Year. This award recognizes administrative career and technical education (CTE) professionals at the school, district, county, state or federal level who have demonstrated leadership in ensuring teacher and student success and have made significant contributions toward innovative, unique and effective career and technical education programs.  

Dr. Donna Prudhomme serves as the Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE) for Beaumont Independent School District, bringing 31 years of experience in education, including 28 years within BISD and 3 years in industry. She began her career as a Criminal Justice teacher and has since served as a high school counselor, assistant principal, magnet coordinator, and principal of Clifton J. Ozen Magnet High School. Under her leadership, the campus achieved state accountability ratings of Met Standard and earned a state distinction in science. 

A dedicated lifelong learner, Dr. Prudhomme holds five degrees from Lamar University, Prairie View A&M University, and Nova Southeastern University. She is certified as a Superintendent, Principal, School Counselor, and Vocational Trades and Industry Teacher. 

Since assuming leadership of BISD’s CTE department in 2018, Dr. Prudhomme has spearheaded a rebranding and expansion of programs that have strengthened industry partnerships, created greater student opportunities, and deepened community engagement. She also launched the Annual CTE Choice Awards, a red-carpet celebration that now draws more than 1,000 attendees each year to honor student achievement, teacher excellence, and community partnerships. 

Under her leadership, BISD students have significantly increased their attainment of industry-based certifications, and the district recently achieved a milestone worth celebrating. According to the 2024–2025 Accountability Ratings, BISD’s CTE industry-based certification results for College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) are virtually tied with the State of Texas, with BISD at 34.9 percent and the state at 35 percent. In addition, BISD far exceeds the state average in Level I and Level II certificates, with 8.1 percent compared to the state’s 1.1 percent. 

Beyond education, Dr. Prudhomme is a REALTOR®, a Board-Certified Credit Consultant, and founder of the Credit Education School, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering young women through financial literacy. She was previously named the 2024 CTAT Administrator of the Year and honored as the 2025 ACTE Administrator of the Year. Dr. Prudhomme is committed to preparing students for success in college, career, and beyond. 

She and her husband, Michael, have been married for 28 years and have two children, Malek and Mia, along with their dog, Bentley. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, binge-watching Netflix, reading about entrepreneurship, and spending time with her family.
 

Prudhomme 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 Indiana Area Director of Career and Technical Education as 

National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Brittany Kloer, Area Director of Career and Technical Education at Area 31 Career Center in Indianapolis, IN as the 2026 ACTE Region III Administrator of the Year. This award recognizes administrative career and technical education (CTE) professionals at the school, district, county, state or federal level who have demonstrated leadership in ensuring teacher and student success and have made significant contributions toward innovative, unique and effective career and technical education programs.  

Brittany Kloer serves as the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Director for Area 31 Career Center, supporting 11 school corporations on the West Side of Indianapolis with a mission to expand access to high-quality, real-world learning experiences for students. With a strong background in educational leadership and curriculum development, Kloer has been widely recognized for her impact. She earned the 2024 Indiana ACTE Administrator of the Year award and, in partnership with the Don Wood Foundation, received House Concurrent Resolution 16 from the Indiana General Assembly in 2022 for their collaborative work expanding new programming in Area 18. A dedicated advocate for policy and practice, she serves as the legislative chair for the Indiana Association of CTE Directors Division and regularly presents statewide on effective CTE strategies. 

Over the course of her 17-year career, Kloer has played a key role in elevating the quality and reach of CTE programs across Indiana. Her leadership in Area 18 and now in Area 31, the state’s largest half-day CTE center, has driven significant growth and innovation. Under her direction, Area 18 saw a 25 percent increase in student enrollment and the launch of new pathways aligned with high-demand industries such as Advanced Manufacturing and Entrepreneurship. She has secured more than $3.4 million in grant funding to modernize facilities and equipment, ensuring students have access to cutting-edge technology and hands-on training. 

Kloer’s commitment to aligning curriculum with state standards, dual-credit opportunities, and industry-recognized credentials has opened doors for students to pursue both higher education and high-wage careers. She has also prioritized educator development through targeted professional learning and real-world experiences, resulting in measurable gains in teacher certification and instructional quality. A proud Purdue University alumna now pursuing her doctorate, Kloer brings a student-centered, equity-driven approach to every aspect of her work. Her visionary leadership continues to shape Indiana’s CTE landscape through a legacy of innovation, access, and excellence. 

Kloer 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 Alabama Director of Career and Technical Education as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Dr. Chris Kennedy, Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE) at  Houston County Schools, Dothan, AL as the 2026 ACTE Region II Administrator of the Year. This award recognizes administrative career and technical education (CTE) professionals at the school, district, county, state or federal level who have demonstrated leadership in ensuring teacher and student success and have made significant contributions toward innovative, unique and effective career and technical education programs.  

Chris Kennedy, Ed.D., is a dedicated Career and Technical Education (CTE) leader with more than 20 years of experience as an Agricultural Education Teacher, Alabama State Department of Education Specialist and Administrator, and, for the past five years, a local CTE Administrator. A passionate advocate for CTE, he has motivated students to reach their fullest potential through innovative programming, strong industry partnerships, and steadfast support of Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs). His leadership has positively impacted students, educators, and communities across Alabama. 

Dr. Kennedy has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing CTE and expanding opportunities for students through strategic planning, organizational restructuring, and active community involvement. He revitalized the Alabama Association for Career and Technical Education (ALACTE), helping to develop a corrective action plan, comprehensive plan of work, and a clear mission and vision—initiatives that strengthened the organization and aligned it with industry standards and best practices. 

As President of the Association of Career and Technical Administrators, he has advanced CTE through advocacy, policy engagement, and professional development, including planning the association’s annual spring conference. He also serves on the Board of Wiregrass Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D), contributing to sustainable community development and demonstrating his commitment to connecting CTE with broader economic growth. 

His service has been recognized with the Alabama Farm City Service Award, honoring his efforts to promote agricultural education and connect CTE with the agricultural industry. Under his leadership, the Houston County Career Academy was selected as an Enhanced Simulated Workplace Site, immersing students in professional environments that build real-world skills and raise awareness of CTE in the community. 

Through his visionary leadership and dedication, Dr. Kennedy has strengthened CTE across Alabama, creating meaningful opportunities for students and leaving a lasting legacy of innovation, advocacy, and excellence. 

Kennedy 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 Michigan Assistant Superintendent of CTE as  National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Patrick Lamb, Assistant Superintendent of CTE at Northwest Education Services Career Tech in Traverse City, MI as the 2026 ACTE Region I Administrator of the Year. This award recognizes administrative career and technical education (CTE) professionals at the school, district, county, state or federal level who have demonstrated leadership in ensuring teacher and student success and have made significant contributions toward innovative, unique and effective career and technical education programs.  

Patrick Lamb serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Career and Technical Education at Northwest Education Services in Traverse City, Michigan. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Central Michigan University, a teaching certificate from Olivet College, and a Master of Arts in Educational Administration. His career in education began in the classroom, with teaching roles at Lake Leelanau St. Mary and Northport Public School, where he also served as Principal from 2001 to 2004. 

Since joining Northwest Education Services in 2004 as Assistant Principal at the Career Tech Center, Mr. Lamb has steadily advanced in leadership, becoming Principal in 2010 and assuming his current role as Assistant Superintendent in 2019. Throughout his tenure, he has led major efforts to enhance CTE programming and expand access for students across the region. 

Among his many accomplishments, Mr. Lamb played a key role in launching the North Ed Foundation in 2023. This nonprofit organization provides critical financial assistance and scholarships to more than 20,000 students in the district. He currently serves as Board President of the foundation. 

As a CTE leader, Mr. Lamb has championed the integration of academic instruction into CTE coursework, supported the expansion of competency-based instruction and evaluation statewide, and developed innovative postsecondary pathways for students throughout Northern Michigan. He also actively contributes to his community through service on the boards of the Northwest Michigan Skilled Trades Foundation and the Networks Northwest Executive Committee. 

Lamb 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.  

California Student Wins ACTE National Student Trophy Design Contest
Student at Westview High School Wins National Award  

Alexandria, VA – Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced that Alex Tang from Westview High School in San Diego, CA. as the national student trophy design winner in its tenth annual student trophy design contest. He is taught by Xin Mathers, an instructor at Westview High School. The contest is sponsored by ACTE and Stratasys, Ltd., a manufacturer of 3D printers and production systems.  

Since 1954, ACTE has awarded those who have made exemplary contributions in the field of career and technical education (CTE). The student trophy design contest is a competition for students to design the 3D trophy for the ACTE Excellence Awards. The winning trophy design will be 3D-printed by Stratasys and presented to the 11 national award winners at the 2025 ACTE Awards Gala in conjunction with ACTE’s CareerTech VISION. This year’s gala will be held December 9 at 7 p.m. at the Gaylord Opryland, In Nashville, TN. Alex’s submission was selected by ACTE’s Board of Directors out of entries from students across the country. In addition to having his design used to create this year’s trophies, Alex will receive a $1,000 scholarship and Westview High School will receive a free one-year lease of a 3D printer, courtesy of Stratasys, Ltd.   

Alex Tang, a 10th grader at Westview High School in San Diego, California, is a passionate STEM student whose journey began with Legos and grew into a love for robotics. He first explored this interest through the First Lego League, where his team won the 2023 Southern California Championship. Since then, Alex has advanced his software and hardware skills through coursework and extracurricular projects, while also giving back to his community. 

Over the past three years, he has moved from Lego robotics to building and programming real robots with his team, which has been active in outreach efforts such as teaching CAD classes at nonprofit summer camps and presenting demonstrations at science and engineering festivals, particularly in San Diego’s border communities with new immigrant families and underserved students. 

At Westview, Alex is a member of the Engineering Club, where he collaborates on hands-on projects and problem-solving challenges. He plans to use the one-year free access to a 3D printer and materials from his recent recognition to encourage more classmates to explore engineering. 

Beyond robotics, Alex has cultivated his creativity in architecture and design, applying his CAD skills to merge artistic vision with technical precision. That passion led him to design a trophy for ACTE, an experience that further sharpened his skills and expanded his design perspective. His coding abilities have also earned recognition in the Congressional App Challenge, and he continues to work with peers on initiatives that connect trilingual students from different cultural backgrounds. 

Inspired by this competition, Alex is more motivated than ever to pursue a future in mechanical engineering, where he hopes to apply his technical expertise and creativity to make a meaningful difference. 

“The Student Trophy Design Contest shines a spotlight on the imagination and skill that thrive in CTE classrooms nationwide,” said ACTE Executive Director LeAnn Curry. “Alex’s outstanding accomplishment reflects both his dedication to CTE and the power of these programs to equip students to become tomorrow’s leaders and innovators. We are thrilled to celebrate Alex’s success and grateful to have him represent the excellence and opportunity that CTE provides.” 

Jesse Roitenberg, Stratasys Americas Director of Education shared his thoughts on the contest over the years, “Stratasys is pleased to partner with ACTE to create this contest for the students. The educators are doing an outstanding job immersing the students in Additive Manufacturing and Computer Aided Drafting.  The trophy entries we have judged over the past ten years are phenomenally designed and could not be created by any other manufacturing process.”  

Alex, ACTE and Stratasys are available for interviews upon request. Alex’s trophy design and headshot are included.  

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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.

Advance CTE & ACTE Statement on Education & Workforce Development Investments in FY26 House Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Proposal

Alexandria, VA – Advance CTE and the Association for Career Technical Education (ACTE) release the following statement regarding the  FY26 House Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations proposal:

“Earlier this week, the House Appropriations Committee advanced a federal fiscal 2026 (FY26) Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies funding measure that would, if enacted, provide a modest funding increase for Career and Technical Education (CTE).  Simultaneously, the bill proposes significant divestments in critical education and workforce development programs, such as the foundational investments made in K-12 education via the Every Student Succeeds Act, and the elimination of several critical investments authorized by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act that would impact wider career preparation efforts.

CTE programs do not operate in isolation. While our organizations are grateful for Congress’ recognition of the importance of investing in state CTE systems and supporting local CTE programs funded through the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act (Perkins V), this legislative proposal would reduce opportunities for CTE learners rather than expanding them.

We are particularly concerned about the proposed funding reductions for foundational investments made in our nation’s education and workforce development systems, noted earlier. Perkins V and the CTE programs it supports are a vital component of the wider career preparation ecosystem, but CTE’s success relies on continued investment throughout the entire educational continuum.

Career preparation investments are growing in importance as the Trump Administration continues to seek to promote career opportunities throughout the American economy and as technologies, like artificial intelligence (AI), continue to reshape job requirements and create new skill demands from employers. The Administration’s commitment to American job creation and AI leadership requires robust education and workforce investments, which are essential for maintaining America’s competitive edge. Learners increasingly need stronger foundational skills to adapt to AI-impacted work environments, while employers require education and training systems that provide the talent needed to adapt to these changes.

Cutting spending for education and workforce development programs that provide these opportunities for learners undermines the Administration’s economic priorities and would leave far too many Americans unprepared for the jobs of tomorrow.

As Congress continues to debate full-year FY26 funding legislation, we urge lawmakers to provide the proposed funding increase for Perkins V outlined in the House’s bill while maintaining vital investments in the wider career preparation ecosystem envisioned in late July by the Senate. We look forward to working with Congress to chart a course toward these goals to ensure federal investments can effectively support learners while responding to the rapidly changing needs of employers.”

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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.

About Advance CTE

Advance CTE is the longest-standing national non-profit that represents State Directors and state leaders responsible for secondary, postsecondary, and adult Career Technical Education (CTE) across all 50 states and U.S. territories. Established in 1920, Advance CTE supports state CTE leadership to advance high-quality CTE policies, programs, and pathways that ensure career and college success for each learner.

Merced County Probation Named as an ACTE Business-Education Partnership Award Winner 

ALEXANDRIA, VA - The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) and its Board of Directors are pleased to announce Merced County Probation in Merced, CA as a 2026 ACTE Business-Education Partnership Award Winner. The Business-Education Partnership Award celebrates the contributions and achievements of schools and businesses that aid in the development and maintenance of partnerships supporting high-quality career and technical education (CTE).  

 Merced County Probation is addressing the challenges facing justice-involved youth through innovative career and technical education initiatives that prepare students for long-term success. At the heart of this work is the RISE to Higher Grounds Café Mobile Program, proudly serving Peet’s Coffee, which provides incarcerated and at-risk youth with real-world job training, industry certifications, and the chance to develop critical workplace and life skills. 

 Developed in partnership with the Merced County Office of Education (MCOE) and supported by organizations including GAEN, Worknet, and the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR), the program combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning. Youth complete the Culinary Essentials curriculum, earning Food Handlers certifications and gaining barista, customer service, and point-of-sale experience. With guidance from staff with restaurant management and food service backgrounds, students apply their skills through operation of a mobile coffee cart that serves the community at local events, building confidence while engaging positively with the public. 

 Beyond technical training, the program provides stipends, work attire, financial literacy support, and access to internships, ensuring participants have the resources needed to succeed after release. Since its launch in 2023, ten students have graduated, all earning certifications and meaningful work experience. One participant was even able to pay off restitution using income earned through the program, a powerful example of how economic empowerment supports rehabilitation and reintegration. 

 In 2024, the program was recognized with the Merced County Mission, Vision, Values Award for its innovation and impact. Thealigning with the ACTE Quality CTE Program of Study Framework®, the partnership has created a model that reduces recidivism, promotes equity, and opens doors to high-wage, high-demand careers, helping youth reenter their communities with the skills, confidence, and support to thrive. 

 Merced County Probation will be recognized alongside other national ACTE award winners on December 9, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. ET, at the annual ACTE Awards Gala. For more information on the Excellence Awards and the Awards Gala, visit: http://www.acteonline.org/awards.  

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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.  

Texas Society of Professional Surveyors Named as an ACTE Business-Education Partnership Award

ALEXANDRIA, VA - The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) and its Board of Directors are pleased to announce Texas Society of Professional Surveyors in Austin, TX as a 2026 ACTE Business-Education Partnership Award Winner. The Business-Education Partnership Award celebrates the contributions and achievements of schools and businesses that aid in the development and maintenance of partnerships supporting high-quality career and technical education (CTE).  

 The Texas Society of Professional Surveyors (TSPS) has played a pivotal role in addressing the nationwide shortage of land surveying professionals by partnering with Klein Independent School District (Klein ISD) to create an innovative, accelerated career pathway for students. 

Several years ago, Klein ISD identified the urgent need for new talent in the field of land surveying. In collaboration with industry leaders, the district launched the Geospatial and Land Surveying Accelerated College Pathway at Klein Collins High School, providing students with opportunities to graduate with AutoCAD and FAA Drone Pilot 107 certifications, Level I Survey Technician credentials, and even an associate degree from a local community college. 

 TSPS quickly became a cornerstone partner in this initiative. The organization welcomed Klein ISD students as its first-ever junior members, enabling them to form a student chapter, take on leadership roles, and gain access to mentorship, networking, and professional development through the TSPS annual symposium. Members from surveying companies across Texas also volunteered weekly on campus, donating time, tools, and expertise to provide students with real-world instruction, fieldwork, and hands-on experience with professional-grade equipment. 

TSPS further strengthened the pathway by facilitating a partnership with Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi (TAMUCC), the state’s only institution offering a joint Geospatial and Surveying degree program. TAMUCC professors now deliver dual-credit courses virtually to Klein ISD students, helping graduates seamlessly transition to postsecondary education or the workforce. Many program alumni have gone on to attend TAMUCC, while others enter the industry directly with highly marketable skills and credentials. 

 This program is intentionally aligned with ACTE’s High-Quality CTE Framework, emphasizing career-connected learning, rigorous coursework, and measurable outcomes. Students not only earn multiple industry-recognized credentials but also gain invaluable leadership experience through TSPS membership, SkillsUSA competitions, and participation in the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) collegiate competition—where Klein ISD teams have successfully competed against, and even outperformed, college students. 

The impact of this partnership extends far beyond individual student success. The Klein ISD program has become the first approved high school Program of Study in Geospatial Engineering and Land Surveying in Texas, now serving as a statewide model for replication. By expanding equity and access, particularly for underrepresented and first-generation college students, TSPS and its partners are opening doors to high-wage, high-demand careers while building a sustainable pipeline of surveying professionals for the future. 

 Through this forward-thinking collaboration, TSPS has elevated the visibility of the surveying profession, demonstrated the power of industry-education partnerships, and ensured that the next generation of surveyors is equipped with the skills, experience, and confidence to succeed. The GELS program at Klein Collins High School has been fully embraced and is now being referenced as a model not only across Texas but nationwide. 

 Texas Society of Professional Surveyors will be recognized alongside other national ACTE award winners on December 9, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. ET, at the annual ACTE Awards Gala. For more information on the Excellence Awards and the Awards Gala, visit: http://www.acteonline.org/awards.  

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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