Carthage Tech Center Career Resource Educator Rusty McDermott has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Missouri ACTE Counseling and Career Development Professional Award, a statewide honor recognizing excellence in career development and student advocacy.

Presented by the Missouri Association for Career and Technical Education (Missouri ACTE), the award recognizes school counselors and career development professionals who demonstrate a commitment to connecting students with opportunities for success, show innovation in career exploration and development, and advocate for Career and Technical Education (CTE) as a valuable pathway for all students.

McDermott has played an important role in helping students explore career options, connect classroom learning to future opportunities, and discover pathways that align with their interests and goals. Through his work at Carthage Tech Center, he has helped students gain exposure to a variety of career fields while promoting the value and impact of CTE programs.

McDermott will be formally recognized during the Missouri ACTE Awards & Recognition Ceremony in July 2026.

This honor continues a strong tradition of excellence at Carthage Tech Center. In 2025, Carthage Tech Center counselor Sadie Spencer received a similar statewide counseling and career development award, highlighting the commitment of CTC staff to preparing students for success in college, careers, and life.

“I can’t think of anyone more deserving for this honor than Rusty! He puts students first and is always willing to jump in and lend a hand - no matter the job. He provides a voice of reason to staff and students in times of need and is a vital part of the success of Carthage Technical Center,” said Dr. Gage Tiller, Director of Carthage Tech Center.