The Douglas R. Major Leadership Award recognizes and supports two emerging and aspiring CTE leaders who demonstrate exceptional potential and a commitment to advancing career and technical education. The award provides financial assistance to help recipients attend ACTE’s Best Practices for CTE Administrators Conference 2026, taking place Oct. 6–8, Denver, Colorado.

This opportunity is designed to help promising leaders gain valuable professional development, expand their networks and bring new ideas back to their schools, districts and communities. The deadline to apply is Aug. 28.

Award Benefits
Recipients will receive:

• One complimentary full conference registration
• A $1,000 stipend to help offset travel, lodging, meals and other conference-related expenses

Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:

• Be a current ACTE Administration Division member
• Be employed as a CTE administrator, supervisor, coordinator or emerging administrative leader
• Be able to attend the full conference in Denver
• Have never attended the Best Practices for CTE Administrators Conference
• Not have previously received this award
• Submit application by Aug. 28

Preference may be given to applicants who have limited employer funding available for professional development and conference attendance.

Recipient Responsibilities
Award recipients agree to:

• Register for the conference by Sept. 11
• Attend the full conference
• Participate in an award recognition activity during the event
• Submit a brief post-conference reflection or testimonial
• Allow ACTE to use their name, photograph and testimonial in promotional and communications materials

Questions? Contact Sara Van Parys, ACTE’s project coordinator, strategic development & operations.