2026 CTE Month Hall of Fame

When I began teaching at Brighton High School, Missy was the Lead Business Department Teacher, and from the very first day, she made me feel seen, supported, and valued. She didn’t just welcome new teachers — she created a culture of belonging. She led by example in everything she did, showing what it truly means to be a CTE educator who puts students and colleagues first. She challenged me to grow, pushed me to see potential in myself that I didn’t yet see, and trusted me with responsibilities that helped shape the educator I am today.

One of the most life-changing opportunities she gave me was encouraging and supporting me in becoming the DECA Advisor at BHS. Because she believed in me, I was able to grow professionally and create meaningful opportunities for my students. She showed me how to challenge students to think critically, how to coach them to shine in DECA role plays and presentations, and most importantly, how to build student confidence that extends far beyond competition. Her mentorship didn’t just impact my career — it directly impacted every student I have been able to reach since.

Even after she left the classroom, Missy’s dedication to students and CTE never wavered. She continued mentoring DECA students, supporting colleagues, and remaining someone we could turn to for guidance, encouragement, and honest conversation. She built relationships that lasted far beyond job titles or roles — relationships rooted in genuine care.

When she returned as a Work-Based Learning Coordinator, she picked up right where she left off — investing time in teachers, brainstorming ideas to strengthen classrooms and DECA programs, and ensuring students had access to meaningful, real-world opportunities. She brings energy, compassion, innovation, and heart into every space she enters.

Missy is not just a strong CTE professional — she is a difference maker. Her impact can be seen in the confidence of students, the growth of teachers, and the strength of programs she has touched. She embodies the spirit of CTE by preparing students for life, careers, and leadership. She is, without question, a CTE Hero. 

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One moment that truly captures who Missy is as a CTE Hero occurred during DECA competition season when a student was struggling with confidence and was on the verge of withdrawing from the competition. Instead of allowing the student to give up, Missy stayed after school multiple days to coach, encourage, and build the student’s confidence step by step. She helped the student break down role-play scenarios, practice professional communication skills, and, most importantly, helped the student believe they were capable of success. At the competition, that student not only competed but also advanced further than they ever expected. More importantly, the student gained confidence that carried into the classroom, future leadership opportunities, and career goals. Moments like this are not isolated — they are who Missy is every day. She sees potential in students before they see it in themselves and does whatever it takes to help them succeed, which is the heart of Career and Technical Education. 

I worked alongside Mark first as a colleague at our sister school. Mark was an asset to the classroom, always striving to bring real-world experiences to his students. Mark has since moved into a role within our district as the CTE Coordinator. Mark has elevated this position more than I can describe. He brings something to our department that has been lacking for years. His knowledge of the curriculum, connections to industry, and ability to coach our teachers goes unmatched. 

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Mark has specifically worked with me on a client-connected project in my marketing class. He was able to provide a connection to a local business, bring that business to my classroom to present a real-world issue for my students to learn about, and create a marketing campaign for them. This organization then returned to listen to the campaigns my students created and to provide feedback. Now my students can see their work in action on social media posts made by the organization. We have since modeled this client-connected project across the district in a number of other classes to fit. This would not have been possible without Mark’s connection and understanding of the CTE classroom.

Mindy Rose’s influence on the CTE field is especially evident through her leadership in DECA, where she has transformed the organization into a powerful driver of student growth and educator collaboration. As the advisor of one of the largest DECA chapters in Louisiana, she has created a culture that pushes both students and fellow educators to expect more from CTE experiences. She intentionally uses DECA as an extension of the classroom, aligning competitive events, leadership roles, and conferences directly to CTE standards, industry credentials, and real-world skill development. Students under her guidance are not simply participating in DECA activities; they are learning how to apply marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills in authentic, high-stakes settings that mirror professional environments.

Beyond her own chapter, Mindy consistently influences other educators in the CTE field to raise their expectations and deepen their commitment to student success. Through collaboration, mentoring, and modeling best practices, she encourages advisors and teachers to move beyond “participation-based” CTSO involvement and toward purpose-driven, standards-aligned engagement. She demonstrates how DECA can be leveraged to support credential attainment, career exploration, service-learning, and leadership identity development, inspiring others to intentionally connect CTSOs to instruction rather than treating them as extracurricular add-ons. By sharing structures, resources, and successful strategies, she motivates fellow CTE educators to push themselves to better support students, advocate for CTE programs, and create meaningful opportunities that prepare learners for college, careers, and leadership beyond the classroom. 

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One moment that truly captures why Mindy Rose is a CTE Hero is not a single awards ceremony or competition win, but the way she consistently shows up for students long after the final bell rings. As the advisor of the largest DECA chapter in Louisiana for the past five years—and with fifteen years of DECA advising overall—Ms. Rose thrives on ensuring that every DECA member feels supported, valued, and capable of success. Former students frequently share that even after graduating or moving on to college or careers, Ms. Rose continues to check in, offer guidance, connect them to opportunities, and push them to believe in themselves. In those moments, her role shifts seamlessly from teacher to lifelong mentor. Many of her former students have gone on to enter the CTE field directly after high school or pursue related degrees in college, carrying forward the skills, confidence, and work ethic she instilled in them. Ms. Rose does not simply teach CTE content; she teaches life skills, professionalism, resilience, and leadership. Her lasting impact is seen in the success of her students and in the relationships; she builds—proof that being a CTE Hero means shaping futures, not just classrooms.

Lynn Pitchford and I have worked together for 19 years during her 47 year tenure. She was my mentor during my student teaching experience and has been ever since. We are a dream team and she is the captain. She has made every day, every experience, even every challenge – better. She held my hand my first few years getting in the groove of teaching high school CTE classes. More importantly, she gave me the confidence to let go. She has shown me compassion and grace in all circumstances and has been all-in throughout all my crazy ideas. I wouldn’t be the educator I am today without her. She cares deeply for her courses and advocates passionately for the benefits of taking CTE classes. She knows it all, she’s seen it all, and she helps all. I can’t think of a better CTE hero! 

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It’s hard to pinpoint 1 story over our 19 years working together or her 47 years in education… but a constant example that is steady throughout, is her commitment to her students’ success not just in the classroom, but out – not just while they’re her student, but forever. She quietly supports them behind the scenes in everything they do: fundraisers, homework, hobbies, finding a job, etc. 

Dana Thompson has had a meaningful impact on both my CTE journey and the field as a whole through his unwavering commitment to students, real-world learning, and collaboration. He consistently goes above and beyond to ensure CTE programs are relevant, hands-on, and aligned with workforce needs. Dana is always willing to share his expertise, mentor colleagues, and advocate for opportunities that help students discover their strengths and future career paths. His leadership and passion for CTE elevate not only those he works directly with, but the overall quality and perception of CTE within our school and community. 

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A specific moment that stands out is when Dana Thompson was featured by Mike Smith and his team for his innovative use of their Careers curriculum. Rather than simply delivering the material, Dana took ownership of the curriculum and adapted it to meet the real needs of his students, making lessons engaging, relevant, and connected to real-world careers. His work was recognized because of the way he brought the content to life, helping students see clear pathways from the classroom to future careers. That recognition wasn’t just a personal achievement for Dana; it reflected his commitment to excellence in CTE and his ability to model best practices for other educators. In that moment, Dana truly embodied what it means to be a CTE Hero by elevating both student learning and the profession as a whole.

Dr. Woodward has introduced me to the positive impact that CTE has on students. Her informational sessions explain the pathways and benefits for students with traditional college pathways and non-traditional support, and CTE educators’ understanding of how their courses support the CTE pathways. She has also shown the relevance of elective pathways of student autonomy as contributing factors in supporting students’ long-term career goals. 

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Dr. Woodward’s servant leadership is an action of a CTE Hero. There is more than one specific moment wherein she has served as a hero. Specifically for me, she has served as a protector and a guide in my new educational role as a CTE educator. A continuum moment that stands out for me is her twice-a-month in-person check-in meetings that address professional and personal issues. Despite having a workload of the entire CTE program for the district, she still manages the time to check on all educators working in the program.

Julie is amazing. She is the most positive, persistent, dedicated professional I know. Her heart is totally in it for the students. Julie has healed my tears, calmed my fears, and built confidence in me. Julie was always there to bounce ideas off of and to lend a helping hand when needed, or not. Julie is an excellent teacher and one I strive to be like!

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A few years back, FBLA had an INTUIT Social Innovation Challenge. The chapter needed to participate but my plate was full. Julie stepped up and rolled like a champ with it. Her students ended up winning the section and taking 2nd, I think in the nation. It was not planned, so Julie needed to modify her curriculum to include it while still meeting the standards for her class. She is an absolute role model and true hero to me. She has forever impacted me in so many positive ways.

I worked with Mrs. Betty for several. years. I watched the way she performed in the classroom and how she poured knowledge to the students. She stands on academic and business. She actually informed me about my current job and encouraged me to apply and today I’m forever grateful. She is a true testament of dedication and integrity.

I have advised DECA with him for six years, but I just moved into the CTE department this year as the Career Development Coordinator. He and I (plus two others) make up the CTE Leadership Team, and he has truly made my new role a blessing in my life. He is there for everything–driving a bus, helping with an event, working with students, or simply listening to me talk about my day. He always has genuine patience for anyone that stops by and needs help, and he is one of the most forgiving people I know and works to see the good in everyone. His work does not go unnoticed, and I hope this is just one small way he knows how much I appreciate him.

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This year, he took on the role of department chair when originally that was not part of his plan. He admitted that it was probably the right thing to do based on his role giving him more freedom to help others and the length of time he had been there vs. others. During this year so far, we have had a couple of department members that have needed extensive assistance for various reasons, and he stepped in and handled them all as if it were no issue at all. He is the type of employee that every boss dreams of, and I am so thankful to know I work right beside of him.

Ms. Moore has inspired and motivated me to serve our students at an even higher level here at our school. Because of her encouragement and example, I am currently teaching Business courses. She is truly an outstanding educator whose dedication and professionalism positively impact both students and colleagues.

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Ms. Moore generously covered the cost for several students to attend a workshop without seeking recognition. Her contribution provided our students with a valuable opportunity to network and connect with peers from across the district, further enriching their educational experience.

Michelle makes sure that everyone on our CTE team has the resources and support needed to do our jobs and make student learning the best that it can be. She shows up (sometimes more than she should! She’s there for everyone, all the time!) and makes sure that we are able to make learning come to life in our classrooms.

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When I took students to Atlanta for DECA ICDC, my first year in our district, Michelle jumped in as a chaperone. She helped make everything run smoothly and laughed with me at some of the chaos that inevitably comes along with traveling with students.

I met Olivia while working as a para-educator, contemplating my next career move. She encouraged me to pursue CTE teaching and advocated for me to attend a summer CTE conference, where I made the connections that launched my path to certification. Just two days into the following school year, I was asked to serve as a long-term sub in the district and Olivia was there every step of the way, supporting me with curriculum and classroom management advice.

Two years later, I moved districts to become a marketing teacher and DECA advisor. Olivia remained a steady source of support through my first years leading the chapter. I’ve watched her do the same for other new advisors selflessly sharing curriculum, advice, and strategies for building a successful program. She is the definition of a CTE hero.

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My second year as a DECA advisor, I was asked to step into the Area Leader role, a daunting ask for someone still finding their footing. Most would have understood if I had stepped aside for a more experienced advisor. Instead, Olivia made sure I didn’t have to. She had served for years as Area President, a position that was being dissolved, and rather than walking away, she voluntarily stayed on an additional year solely to mentor and prepare me for the role. That is who Olivia is someone who doesn’t just open doors for others, she walks through them with you.

In his 30 years of teaching Doug has been the consummate professional a fantastic colleague. He has created and partnered with me on nearly every initiative in the business and marketing department for the Anoka Hennepin School District (MN). He runs an amazing school-based enterprise at Anoka High School. His DECA program encourages students to explore career pathways in business, marketing, management, finance, and hospitality. His students and alumni are extremely appreciative of his industry knowledge, and connections, having worked in the sports marketing field for ten years before going into teaching. He puts students first, and himself second when it comes to their experience. Doug is a true champion in his classroom, a leader in our school district, and a great example of what a CTE Teacher should be!

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Doug is a constant advocate for his program, his work with the Anoka Chamber of Commerce has been amazing. Most would not know it is him, because he doesn’t want the spotlight to shine on him, but rather on his students. He brings his DECA students to these meetings and allows them the chance to present, network, and explain their projects. He encourages them to take initiative and the microphone. Which is great for their self-confidence and prepares them in high school for professional presentations and networking opportunities beyond high school. After Doug’s kids are done presenting, the chamber members consistently comment on how they feel positive about our next generation of leaders.

She has been willing to share her knowledge and resources whenever I have asked for help. I know I can reach out to her anytime and she will be there for me. She cares deeply about teaching and guiding others to meet their potential. She has been one of my biggest supports and I can’t say enough about her.

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I have two stories about JoLynn.

She stepped up to help with our state organization, Colorado Business and Marketing Educators (CBAM), when our president-elect needed to step down. This was extremely helpful to me as at the time I was the current president. She agreed to step in and has now taken on the role of current president. She has brought new ideas to the organization and our annual conference is shaping up to be great.

JoLynn gives selflessly to her students. When she started at Riverdale Ridge the chapter was on the brink of being dropped. She has worked diligently over the last 5 years, with help from members, to grow her DECA chapter at Riverdale Ridge to a thriving and successful program. She will give up her time and energy to help her students achieve their goals in the classroom and in DECA. She plans work days, schedules speakers and lines up mentors for her students. She cares deeply for her students and continues to follow up with them even after they have graduated.

I have only been a CTE teacher for two years, but the support I receive from our central office is phenomenal. Dawn in particular has a passion for CTE and it spreads to all of the staff and teachers she serves.

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When I first started teaching, I was telling Dawn about some moments when I felt the students weren’t fully attentive or engaged. She said… you’re planting a seed and it will grow. That stuck with me and I remind myself of it daily. Dawn believes in the goals of CTE and truly understands and appreciates how our programs benefit our students.

Bonnie is the consummate professional. No one works harder, cares more, and is more prepared than Bonnie. Since creating the Business Pathway at our school many years ago, she has led the way with innovation, unique lesson planning, bringing in outside recourses, and guest speakers. Bonnie is willing to do anything necessary to create a professional and creative learning environment for our students. She goes above and beyond the call of duty to help make our school the best it can be.

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Although it’s not a specific moment, I’d like to share an example of how Bonnie truly shines when going the extra mile for our kids. We have before school staff meetings in our library on the first Thursday of each month. This year, Bonnie has turned each one into a unique learning opportunity for our Business Pathway students. She reserves the main room of the library for guest speakers, whom Bonnie personally talks into giving up half a day to spend at our school. Because of Bonnie, almost 300 of our students get to learn real world business lessons from community leaders. Speakers have included representatives from various fields and industries like real estate, hospitality, entertainment, manufacturing, aviation, and even psychology. Each guest has been a self-starter and/or entrepreneur who shares their unique story before interacting with and answering questions for our students. Several business relationships have begun because of Bonnie’s efforts. She has convinced each of these business leaders that sharing their experiences four times each visit is a worthwhile and rewarding way to spend their valuable time. Our students are benefiting greatly thanks to Ms. Maye.

Mrs. Garner has been a champion for CTE since my first day at Amplus Academy. Her resilience and tenacity for making sure CTE is a priority at our school is beyond amazing. She has ensured that students participate in CTSO’s and organizes all things CTE so that our campus can be successful. CTE at Amplus Academy would not work without her. She has been a listening ear constantly and a friend when needed.

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Mrs. Garner was our Assistant Principal last year, and I could not find another chaperone for our SCDC. Mrs. Garner came and helped me with the conference, while managing her other responsibilities throughout the day. She showed up for the students, conducted virtual parent teacher conferences, and made sure the kids were all fed. She is a hero!

Ms. Cooper has made a powerful impact on my CTE journey through her contagious energy and unwavering passion. She gives her all in everything she does—not striving for perfection, but for excellence that is presentable, inviting, and meaningful. Her approach reminds me that CTE is not about being flawless; it’s about being prepared, professional, and purpose-driven.

She has shown me how to create learning environments that are simple yet elegant—spaces where students feel welcomed, understood, and empowered. Her leadership and example have influenced not only my growth as a CTE educator but also the way I serve students and represent the field. Through her consistency, heart, and authenticity, she continues to positively shape CTE and those who are fortunate enough to work alongside her.

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Before I became a teacher, Ms. Cooper truly demonstrated what it means to be a CTE Hero. She encouraged me to apply for my current position and went a step further by personally speaking to the principal on my behalf before I even interviewed. That act of confidence, advocacy, and belief in my potential made a lasting impact on my career journey.

As fellow alumni of J.F. Webb, we both take tremendous pride in our school and our students. Ms. Cooper consistently goes above and beyond—not only supporting colleagues but also serving as the go-to person for guidance, solutions, and encouragement. Her passion for Career and Technical Education is evident in everything she does. Most importantly, her heart is fully invested in her students. She doesn’t just teach content—she builds futures.

That unwavering dedication, leadership, and commitment to others is what makes Ms. Cooper a true CTE Hero.

Dr. Michelle Aldrich is the definitive “CTE Hero,” a visionary leader whose career is a testament to the transformative power of Career and Technical Education. From the front lines of the classroom to the heights of national policy, her mission has remained constant: ensuring every student, regardless of their background, has a clear, viable path to a rewarding and sustainable career.

Long before she was a state leader, Dr. Aldrich spent 15 years as a Family and Consumer Science teacher at Triumph High School, Wyoming’s oldest and largest alternative high school. It was here that she mastered the art of re-engaging high-risk students, proving that CTE is not just an elective, but the vital bridge that keeps students connected to their education.

Dr. Aldrich has worked tirelessly to dismantle the “pigeonholing” of students as either “career-bound” or “college-bound.” By championing Perkins V funding and concurrent enrollment, she has empowered students to become both, while also allowing them to earn industry-recognized credentials while simultaneously stacking college credits.

As Wyoming’s State Director of CTE, Dr. Aldrich does more than manage, she creates. She is a true innovator. Her initiatives have fundamentally strengthened the educational pipeline:

• The “See Me Teach CTE” Program: A forward-thinking recruitment tool that empowers educators to nominate students to become the next generation of CTE teachers.
• Teacher Externships: A unique program that places teachers directly into business and industry environments. This program doesn’t just provide CEUs and professional connections; it compensates teachers with a stipend, honoring their time and expertise.
• The DRIVE Initiative: (Developing Rewarding Integrated Vocational Experiences) This specialized training equips paraprofessionals and job coaches with the tools to develop work-readiness skills and foster successful employer-student partnerships.
• CTE Huddles: Focused professional development sessions that bring industry leaders together with teachers to discuss workforce trends, share best practices, and foster cross-district collaboration.

Dr. Aldrich’s influence extends from local city council chambers to the national stage. Whether serving on the Advance CTE Board of Directors, representing her community on the Cheyenne City Council, or leading within the Zonta Club and Rotary, her dedication to service is absolute. In Wyoming, she embodies the “one degree of separation,” leveraging her vast network to connect schools with industry to ensure that when a student completes a program, they aren’t just a graduate…they are career-ready.

Dr. Michelle Aldrich does not just lead CTE in Wyoming; she lives it. She understands that behind every policy and every federal dollar is a student searching for a purpose and a teacher looking for a tool. By bridging the gap between classroom theory and industry reality, she has turned “potential” into “prosperity” for thousands making sure students don’t just make a living but make a life. For her lifelong dedication to Wyoming’s students, her innovative spirit in state leadership, and her unwavering belief that every student deserves a path to success, Dr. Michelle Aldrich is truly a CTE Hero.

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True heroism in Career and Technical Education isn’t captured in a single ribbon-cutting ceremony or a viral speech. Instead, a CTE Hero like Dr. Michelle Aldrich is defined by a “cumulative legacy”. The thousands of quiet, unrecorded moments that happen when the cameras are off and the spotlight is elsewhere. Dr. Aldrich embodies the “servant leader” model. In Wyoming, leadership is often about who is willing to do the work that no one sees. To define her by one moment would be to miss the forest for the trees. Her “heroism” is found in the consistency of her character; the unwavering belief that every student is one degree of separation away from a life-changing opportunity.

My CTE Hero is Mr. Inkenbrandt. He first taught me in 6th grade when my interest was in Video Game Design. He taught me well, and my interests changed. When I entered high school, he became my Business & Marketing teacher. He taught me everything there was to learn about that subject, too. He taught my older brother, too, so being in his class felt like being with family. I’m in 12th grade now. I thought I would be trade school-bound for a long time, because while I learned a lot, a marketing career just wasn’t resonating with me. Mr. Inkenbrandt picked up on that, and over the years, we had so many conversations about leadership, and success, and my future. He pushed me toward college and wouldn’t take me aiming low as an answer. Looking back, I think a lot of kids my age need that affirmation and that confidence from a trusted adult. I think what he did for me was above and beyond the call of a marketing teacher. He helped me sample and learn about many different careers that could fit my strengths. With his help, I eventually found my calling in a career path that will take me through a 4-year Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management. We had to learn together about construction management, after all, it wasn’t his expertise at the time.

Mr. Inkenbrandt helped me find my way and navigate my future planning in this by working with skilled & technical labor CTE specialists in our school district, talking to union leaders in the city we live in, got me in contact with a former student of his he discovered was halfway through the Construction Management program at the college I will attend to help me as a peer mentor, and leveraged community partnerships to help get me enrolled in a formal architecture, construction management, & engineering mentorship program hosted by industry professionals in our area. He went through the degree requirements with me line-by-line and connected me to free and low-cost early college credit opportunities to help give me a head start toward my post-secondary education. I was lost in a sea of opportunities. And now, I’m well on my way to a high-paying job in a field I love, with an entirely new life trajectory that will result in a lifestyle with abundance unseen in my upbringing. Make no mistake, I’m proud to say I am walking the tightrope out of poverty, and it’s because of my CTE hero.