The Explore the New Manufacturing Program announced today that Samuel Wilson has been recognized with an Outstanding Industry Educator award for his dedication in the classroom. Wilson is a teacher at Grafton High School, where he teaches welding and metal technology classes. Wilson 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. Procter & Gamble Company, a Gold Patron, along with Technimark, a Bronze Patron, are sponsors of the 2022 awards.
“Mr. Wilson connects with students in a special way by sharing his multiple talents, and he takes on extra after-school opportunities to support students,” notes Stacy Ward, Business Education Instructor at Grafton. “His welding program produces skilled students ready for the workforce and/or post-secondary education. He is a younger, nontraditional educator who volunteers to help with a variety of school projects and demonstrates the fun in learning and giving back to the community.”
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.
“Mr. Wilson employs high-level learning experiences that equip and empower his students to succeed in the classroom and beyond,” said Program Director Monica Cross, who oversees the Explore the New Manufacturing Program on behalf of the West Virginia Manufacturing 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. “He involves the students in innovative projects that hone their talent and skills while impacting the community at large. This speaks volumes about his dedication, and we are honored to recognize Samuel for his steadfast commitment and exemplary community service.”
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 in manufacturing-related technical and STEM courses and are involved in the Explore the New Manufacturing or other affiliated programs.
Wilson’s 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
