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.
