If you’ve ever had a teacher who wowed you with their passion and knowledge, you know the difference they can have on your learning experience. Their extra effort inspires you to challenge yourself and find your own passion for your field.
That’s why the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) Excellence Awards exist. They celebrate educators who demonstrate “extraordinary contributions” to Career and Technical Education (CTE).
This year, Rick Villano has received the Maryland ACTE 2025 New Teacher of the Year Award. Villano is an electrical instructor at Calvert Career Technical Academy and an Electrical Alliance member. This award recognizes his dedication to students who are pursuing careers in the electrical industry.
Where there are excellent teachers, there are excellent workers
With the demand for skilled electricians steadily on the rise, instructors like Villano play a crucial role in preparing students for reliable, supportive careers.
Dedicated educators like Villano are responsible for building new workers’ foundational skills, helping them develop the confidence they need to move forward, and supporting them during those challenging first steps in their electrician journey.
“Receiving this award means a great deal to me, and I am deeply honored to be recognized in this way,” said Villano. “I understand that I am the first person at Calvert Career Technical Academy to be named New Teacher of the Year, and knowing that our school has produced numerous Teacher of the Year winners, including one National Teacher of the Year, makes this achievement even more meaningful.”
Villano’s path to teaching
Villano’s path to teaching is a full-circle moment. He graduated 43 years ago from the same program he now teaches at Calvert Career Technical Academy. His experience in the electrical field, including serving as a General Foreman and Business Agent with Local #26, has provided him with valuable insights that he now shares with his students.
“I have been fortunate in my career as an electrician, working alongside some of the finest professionals in the industry,” Villano said. “When [Joe Dabbs, Business Manager of Local #26] approached me with the opportunity to serve as an electrical teacher at Calvert Career Technical Academy, it felt like a natural next step, and I was proud to step into this role for our community.”
Villano credits many of his colleagues and school leadership for their support, especially when the beginning of his career felt difficult.
“When I first began, I felt out of my element, uncertain of where I truly fit in,” Villano said. “However, Vice Principal Mister quickly made me feel at home, offering support and guidance that eased my transition. After his departure, I was fortunate to work closely with Vice Principal Sammons, who immediately stepped into the role with ease. And of course, Principal Akins deserves special recognition for the incredible leadership she provides. Her role is one of the most challenging in the entire county, as she not only recruits talented individuals with real-world experience but also inspires them to become part of our program.”
Villano said he is grateful to keep following in the footsteps of the teachers who were so committed to his success. “Most of the teachers at our school have come from successful careers, and their dedication to sharing their expertise and experience with the next generation of students is what makes our program truly special,” he said. “I am proud to be part of such an exceptional team and to contribute to this legacy.”
We’d like to wish a huge congratulations to Rick Villano—and best of luck to all the students who have learned with him! We can’t wait to see what you do next.
Know someone who wants to become an electrician with passionate instructors like Rick Villano by their side?
Check out the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (JATC) program. It’s your ticket to a rewarding career with the BEW Local 26 Union, where you can earn while you learn. At the JATC, you get cutting-edge classroom education combined with paid in-the-field experience—putting you at the top of your game.
