A Remarkable Achievement

Pittsburg State University is on a meteoric rise as a powerhouse in technology education. This year, they proudly captured prestigious honors at the International Technology and Engineering Educator’s Association (ITEEA) conference held in St. Louis. Notably, Associate Professor Byron McKay and Assistant Instructional Professor Trevor Maiseroulle secured the Distinguished Technology & Engineering Professional Award, an accolade bestowed upon only the top 5 percent in their profession.

Acknowledging Excellence

Director of the School of Technology and Workforce Learning, Professor Andrew Klenke, could not hide his joy as he acknowledged the two faculty members’ commitment: “Byron and Trevor have excelled in demonstrating their exceptional professional abilities, character, and reputation for excellence,” said Klenke. McKay and Maiseroulle have undeniably set a benchmark within the technology and engineering education field.

Klenke’s Moment of Honor

Klenke himself was taken by surprise as he was honored twice with the ITEEA Teacher Educator of the Year Award and the ITEEA Special Recognition Award — a rare accomplishment only achieved by 68 recipients since 1956. “Reading through the list of past honorees is humbling, and understanding the caliber of professionals within ITEEA makes this even more special,” he shared. His contributions continue to shape the educational landscape at Pittsburg State and beyond.

Celebrating Student Achievements

The conference was also a stage to celebrate nine talented students initiated into the esteemed Epsilon Pi Tau honor society. Leading this, McKay and Maiseroulle see it as a nod to their devotion to fostering academic excellence within the university’s Technical School.

Competitive Spirit

Reaffirming their competitive edge, Pitt State students showcased their skills against reputable institutions like Purdue and Brigham Young, emerging with commendable placements. They secured second place in Manufacturing, fourth in Problem Solving, and consistently strong performances in various challenges. “It has been an incredible week for us,” exclaimed Klenke, reflecting his pride in the student’s accomplishments.

Expanding Horizons

Concluding the event, McKay’s election to the ITEEA Board of Directors as the Region 3 Director not only marks personal growth but also opens up broader opportunities for the university in coming years. This achievement echoes a broader trend of excellence permeating Pitt State, evident in their expanding suite of programs under the School of Technology & Workforce Learning.

As stated in Pittsburg State University, the future certainly shines bright for Pittsburg State’s educators and students alike, as they continue to lead and inspire in the ever-evolving world of technology education.