New Secondary Teacher of the Year 

 Nate Harvey

 Elevate Academy East

"In a remarkably short time, Nate has built a culinary program that reflects the very best of career technical education. His students learn by doing through authentic catering experiences that demand professionalism, communication, problem-solving and technical skill. By combining high expectations with intentional support, Nate has created a culture where students take ownership of their learning and understand that their work matters."

New Postsecondary Teacher of the Year

 Not Awarded

Secondary Teacher of the Year 

 Brandy Funk

 Meridian Medical Arts Charter

"Brandy is being recognized for her extraordinary impact on students both inside and outside the classroom. Through engaging instruction, real-world application and dedicated mentorship, she prepares students not only to earn certifications but to succeed as healthcare professionals. Her commitment to student growth has helped learners achieve success at the regional, state and international levels, while inspiring them to pursue meaningful careers in healthcare."

 CTEI is proud to honor Brandy with the Secondary Teacher of the Year Award.

Postsecondary Professional of the Year

 Tommy Gunderson

 Idaho State University

"Tommy has transformed Idaho State University's Information Technology Systems program into a rigorous, industry-driven pathway that prepares students for high-demand careers. Through innovative certification opportunities, expanded industry partnerships and a commitment to hands-on learning, he has created new opportunities for students while helping strengthen Idaho's technology workforce. His leadership continues to shape the future of career technical education both at Idaho State University and across the state."  

CTEI is proud to honor Tommy with the Postsecondary Professional of the Year Award.

Teacher Educator of the Year

Counseling & Career Development

 Jen Keavney

 Dennis Technical Education Center

"In just two years, Jen has become a tireless advocate for student success and career exploration. Through strong partnerships with industry and community organizations, she has expanded access to workplace experiences, apprenticeships and career-connected learning opportunities that help students see a clear path from education to employment. Her innovative approach and commitment to putting students first have made a lasting impact on both learners and educators."

 Administrator of the Year 

  Not Awarded

Carl Perkins Service Award

  Not Awarded

CTE Stakeholder of the Year

 Idaho Falls Fire Department

 Idaho Falls

"The Idaho Falls Fire Department has been an exceptional partner to Idaho Falls School District's EMT program, providing equipment, training resources, mentorship and real-world learning opportunities for students. Through classroom instruction, internships and hands-on experiences at fire stations and on ambulances, department personnel have helped bridge the gap between education and industry while preparing the next generation of emergency medical professionals."

 CTEI is proud to honor the Idaho Falls Fire Department with the Career Technical Education Stakeholder of the Year Award.

IDCTE Exemplary Program Awards

Secondary Exemplary Program Award

 Early Childhood Education Pathway 

 Meridian Career and Technical Center

 West Ada School District

"This program exemplifies what high-quality career technical education should be: rigorous, student-centered, and deeply connected to industry. Through a three-course pathway and extensive work-based learning experiences, students develop the knowledge, skills and professionalism needed to succeed in one of Idaho’s most critical workforce areas—early childhood education.

What sets this program apart is the depth of opportunity available to students. Participants earn dual credit through the College of Western Idaho, pursue the nationally recognized Child Development Associate credential, and gain hands-on experience through structured internships in local early learning centers. Many students also distinguish themselves through FCCLA leadership and competition, earning state and national recognition for their work.

The program’s strong partnerships with industry, commitment to continuous improvement and vision for expanding work-based learning have created a model pathway that prepares students for both immediate employment and continued education. Most importantly, it is helping build Idaho’s future workforce by preparing the next generation of early childhood professionals."

Postsecondary Exemplary Program Award

 Diesel and On-Site Power Generation Technology Program 

 Idaho State University

"For decades, this program has prepared highly skilled technicians for some of Idaho’s most essential industries, including agriculture, transportation, mining, construction and power generation. Students receive hands-on training using industry-standard equipment while developing the technical expertise employers need in a rapidly evolving workforce.

The program’s success is built on strong industry partnerships, an active technical advisory committee and a commitment to aligning instruction with current workforce demands. Faculty work closely with employers to ensure students graduate with relevant skills and practical experience, creating a direct pathway from education to employment.

What truly distinguishes this program is its forward-looking vision. In addition to preparing students for today's careers, the program continuously adapts to emerging technologies and industry needs, ensuring graduates are ready to succeed in the future of diesel and power generation technology. Through its focus on quality instruction, workforce alignment and student success, this program represents the very best of career technical education in Idaho."

CTEI applauds the staff of the Diesel and On-Site Power Generation Technology Program for being chosen as IDCTE's Postsecondary Exemplary Program for 2026.