Each April, career tech teachers from throughout our 11 public school districts recognize the top achievers in their career tech classrooms. These students have shown their dedication, perseverance and creativity in giving their all. This event is a showcase for the students, their families, school and ISD teachers and administrators, and the community.

This years annual Career and Technical Education event will take palce on April 22, 2025

CTE Ambassador Awards

Mary Faculak, president of the East Jordan Chamber of Commerce, received the first annual CTE Ambassador Award, for her continued support and promotion of all career and technical education initiatives.

Bill Mansfield, representing the Mansfield Family Foundation, received the CTE Ambassador Award, for his continued support and promotion of all career and technical education initiatives.

CTE Community Partner Awards

Matt Blythe, Emmet County Emergency Management Coordinator was recognized for being valuable partner to our ISD and students. Matt has been an integral part in the Public Safety camp for the ISD as well as supporting our public Safety CTE programs. 

Represented by Ken Provost and Ryan Friske we would like to recognize Birchwood Construction for being a valuable partner to our ISD and our students. We are beyond appreciative of all the time and effort that their staff has provided in order to pilot a new construction trades summer work program. Thanks to a grant provided by Michigan Works, 8 students participated in an 8-week program where they worked alongside Birchwood crews to develop construction skills such as equipment and material use, building and design, site preparation, and best practices, while also earning $17 an hour. Thank you for opening doors for our students and delivering real life experiences!”

The Northwest Michigan Industrial Association works to support manufacturers and students within our region. The association’s board has made it a priority to support science, technology, engineering and math initiatives – commonly known as “STEM” – as well as career tech programs that impact thousands of regional students. The association contributes to robotics programs, funds scholarships for students going into the trades, and has sponsored the Char-Em Street STEM mobile program.

Bill Mansfield, representing the Mansfield Family Foundation, was awarded for the foundation’s support of career and technical education initiatives, including funding new equipment and gear for career tech grads as they enter the workforce after graduation.

Representatives from Northwestern Michigan Works were awarded for their continued partnerships with Char-Em ISD CTE.