July 8, 2025
Gilbert High School agriculture teacher and FFA advisor Adam Davis was recently honored by the Iowa Association for Career and Technical Education (IACTE) for his innovation, leadership, and commitment to technical education and student success. Mr. Davis was one of 15 distinguished professionals from across the state to be honored at a ceremony held in Des Moines in June.
The ceremony featured handcrafted trophies designed by students and staff from Des Moines Central Campus, a testament to the high-caliber craftsmanship and creativity fostered by Iowa’s CTE programs.
Mr. Davis was one of two educators to receive the Award of Merit for his work in securing over $138,000 in grants to revamp the welding program at GHS. Mr. Davis’s hard work and dedication in securing these grants helped students earn more than 280 industry-recognized credentials.
The complete list of award winners includes:
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Bryn Hayes, Clear Creek Amana CSD
- Administrator of the Year: Kelsie Mocha, Des Moines Central Campus
- Award of Merit: Adam Davis, Gilbert CSD, and Mike VanSickle, Louisa-Muscatine CSD
- Carl Perkins Community Service Award: Kyle Kuhlers, Waterloo Career Center
- Counseling and Career Development Professional: Holly Hansen, Eastern Iowa Community College
- New Teacher of the Year: Emilee Bilharz, Saydel CSD
- Oran Beaty Leadership Award: Jacob Fox, Sheldon CSD
- Postsecondary Professional of the Year: Jessica Lienen, Eastern Iowa Community College
- Teacher Educator of the Year: Jane Hoegh, Iowa State University
- Teacher of the Year: Heidi Hicks, Boone CSD
“These award recipients and nominees represent the best of what Career and Technical Education stands for,” Dr. Tara Troester, the IACTE Awards Co-Chair said. “Their dedication, creativity, and commitment to student success make CTE not just a program, but a life-changing pathway for Iowa students.”
Please join us in congratulating Mr. Davis on this much deserved honor. His commitment to his students and our school district is felt every single day and we cannot thank him enough.
