ACTE Announces Utah Associate Professor, as National Award Winner
ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Tyson Sorensen, Associate Professor at Utah State University, in Logan, UT as the 2026 ACTE Region V 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. Tyson Sorensen, Associate Professor in the Applied Sciences, Technology, and Education Department at Utah State University (USU), is making a lasting impact on the future of Career and Technical Education (CTE) through his leadership, innovation, and mentorship. Since joining the faculty in 2015, Dr. Sorensen has taught a wide range of undergraduate and graduate CTE courses, all while developing programs that challenge students to think critically and engage in real-world issues.
A passionate educator and program developer, Dr. Sorensen is the driving force behind several key initiatives that support both current and future CTE teachers. He established and led a student teaching abroad program for USU’s CTE pre-service teachers, giving them valuable international teaching experience and a global perspective. In addition, he has launched multiple professional development programs designed to strengthen CTE instruction, including a global engagement series, a mentoring and support program for new teachers, and the CTE Teaching Academy, which helps new teachers complete the coursework required for certification (e.g., license or endorsement).
As the program lead for agricultural education at USU, Dr. Sorensen has mentored numerous undergraduate students pursuing careers in various CTE disciplines. He is also a dedicated advisor to graduate students, guiding CTE-focused research that contributes to the field’s ongoing advancement.
Through his work in teacher preparation, program development, and research mentorship, Dr. Sorensen is helping elevate the quality and reach of CTE across Utah and beyond. His contributions continue to shape a generation of educators committed to preparing students for success in today’s dynamic workforce.
Sorensen 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.
