FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Marlen Zarcone
mzarcone@acteonline.org
ACTE Announces California Job Development and Training Technician as National Award Finalist
ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Greg Friedman, Job Development and Training Technician, at Merced County Office of Education, in Merced, CA as the 2025 ACTE Region V Counseling and Career Development Professional. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) teachers at the middle/secondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities.
Greg Friedman works with the Merced County Office of Education as a Job Development and Training Technician. For the past three years, Greg’s commitment to providing comprehensive career guidance and preparation for adults enrolled in the Regional Occupational Program (ROP) throughout the county has been evident in his innovative approach to workforce development. Greg teaches essential skills and job-searching techniques through various workshops and webinars, equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in their careers. He emphasizes the importance of incorporating artificial intelligence into career exploration and readiness, ensuring students have the right capabilities to succeed in future opportunities.
Greg works closely with his local partners, along with employers to provide support and opportunities to his adult population. He helps organize countywide annual hiring events for Adults with Disabilities, Veterans, Justice Involved and LGBTQ+ individuals (DiversAbility Hiring Event). He also partnered with local CTE training programs and was a contributing member with the Merced County Career & Technical Education Training and Hiring Event.
By helping organize multiple county-wide career fairs over the last eight years and assisting in the creation of a data management/tracking system, Greg affirms each student receives personalized support and guidance. With a rich background in education and a diverse professional history, Greg’s expertise spans multiple roles. He previously worked with high school students in college and career preparation and held a pivotal role in the Special Education department overseeing ROP and managing multiple subsidized-pay grants. His twenty-three-year tenure in the full-service restaurant industry as a General Manager and Regional Kitchen Manager uniquely positions him to understand employer perspectives, bridging the gap between educational programs and business expectations. Greg’s proficiency in connecting with employers has been instrumental in securing internships and fostering collaborations between education and industry. His multifaceted background makes him an asset in workforce development, driven by his passion for empowering individuals on their career journeys
Friedman is one of five finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 4, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.
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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities.
