The Explore the New Manufacturing program announced today that Barry Jones has been recognized with an Outstanding Industry Educator award. Jones, a Project Lead the Way engineering and robotics instructor, is employed at the Mercer County Technical Education Center (MCTEC). He will receive a $500 award designated for classroom enhancement. He will also be presented with a commemorative wooden plaque and gift basket featuring products made in West Virginia.
Mr. Jones works tirelessly with his students to ensure that they are given opportunities to experience real-world scenarios involving STEM and manufacturing careers,” commented Danielle Farmer, Student Affairs/ACE Coordinator at MCTEC. “He engages students with guest speakers and field trips to STEM/manufacturing career pathways.”
Launched in 2020, the Emerging Elite in Manufacturing and Outstanding Industry Educator awards celebrate the skills and dedication of students and educators across West Virginia.
“Barry Jones is a compassionate educator who works hard to help students prepare for their future,” said Program Director Monica Cross, who oversees the Explore the New Manufacturing program on behalf of the West Virginia Manufacturers Association Educational Fund’s efforts to create student awareness and excitement about careers in manufacturing and the training opportunities for these positions in their local areas.
The Outstanding Industry Educator awardees are making positive impacts in the classroom. Student success is often the result of a dynamic teacher who inspires pupils to work harder to pursue a rewarding future. Awardees have championed students on multiple Explore the New Manufacturing events and in Career Technical Education endeavors.
Jones’ award is part of Explore’s Emerging Elite in Manufacturing and Outstanding Industry Educator awards. Profiles of all award recipients will be available on the Explore the New Manufacturing website after they have been announced. https://www.exploremfgwv.com/awards
