“The need for skilled workers in our community and country continues to grow at an exponential rate. If I can show my students the importance of pursuing industrial-related careers, then they will undoubtedly achieve career success at a young age.”

Carol Wright teaches Agricultural Mechanics at Hugh C. Williams High School in Canton, New York. Wright was inspired to teach by her father, who was also an agricultural teacher, and her many active years in 4-H and FFA in her youth. Recognizing the countless opportunities those organizations offered, she set her goal to provide similar experiences when she became an educator. While pursuing her undergraduate degree, Wright took classes in woodworking and metalworking to expand her skillset. She hopes her students will see that succeeding in a hands-on trade can be just as beneficial – if not more so – as pursuing higher education.

Wright excites in the “aha!” moments when students step outside traditional classroom thinking and gain confidence in embracing hands-on skills. Students are exposed to a variety of techniques, including arc welding, mig welding, plasma cutting, and small gas engine identification and rebuilds. Projects often involve partnership so students can learn the value of teamwork, communication, and problem solving as well. She emphasizes local opportunities and connections so that students, once they graduate, can contribute to their community. To do this, Wright takes her classes on many field trips to industry partners, where tours are often conducted by program graduates, opening her kids’ eyes to all they could achieve. Wright consistently keeps in touch with past students, who have found success in industries such as metal fabrication, pipefitters unions, auto mechanics, tree services, and more.

Notes of Excellence

  • Wright has been named a Regional New York Association of Agricultural Educators Mentor of the Year, National Board Certified CTE Educator, and New York State STEM Master Teacher.
  • Teamwork, partnership and communications are key elements of Wright’s classes. Students hone them through collaborative activities from dissembling and repairing small engines to a “Great Bike Build Off.”
  • Many projects completed in Wright’s class are displayed at the annual summer county fair.