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.
