FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Marlen Zarcone
mzarcone@acteonline.org
ACTE Announces Texas Counselor as National Award Finalist
ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Brandi Williams, CTE Counselor/Coordinator at Calhoun County ISD in Port Lavaca, TX as the 2025 ACTE Region IV 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.
Brandi Williams serves as the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Counselor at Calhoun High School, where she plays an integral role in student development, from professional growth and student recruitment to facilitating future career opportunities for graduates. Over the past eight years, Brandi has focused on creating course sequences aligned with state-approved programs of study, ensuring that students receive a robust CTE education that maximizes their chances of completing their programs.
Brandi has worked tirelessly to build strong relationships with local industries and businesses, providing valuable training opportunities through Career Preparation classes and practicum experiences. To ensure the success of the Work-Based Learning (WBL) programs, she collaborates with teachers to establish clear policies and procedures, significantly reducing attrition rates.
One of Brandi’s proudest achievements is establishing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the local community college, allowing students to earn articulated credits for specific CTE courses taken in high school. This initiative has opened doors for students who might not have considered higher education, showing them that college is not only possible but already within their reach.
In addition, Brandi spearheaded the creation of the school’s first-ever College and Career Center, a welcoming space where students can explore their future with her guidance. She has also coordinated career exploration events, such as Manufacturing Day and Meet Your Future, where students interact with industry professionals and gain hands-on experience in various fields.
Beyond campus, Brandi serves as the CTE representative on the local Partners in Education board, updating industry leaders on the district’s programs and fostering connections that benefit the community. Her work extends to the state level, where she has promoted CTE as a Texas OnCourse Leader Fellow and consulted with the Victoria Economic Development Group on training future employees for new industry opportunities.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Brandi’s work is hosting the annual CTE Certification Celebration, where she recognizes the hard work of seniors and their achievements in earning industry-based certifications
Williams 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.
