“Relevant applied learning opportunities with attached credentials create spaces where students gain confidence, mastery, and often leave behind negative behaviors that have previously impeded their learning.”
Karen Chitambar teaches Transportation Sciences Technology at North Country Career Center in Newport, VT. Raised as the youngest of five on a farm, she joined the Navy to fund her education, serving as an aviation technician on helicopters where she developed a passion for diagnostic repair. She used the GI Bill to become a licensed English teacher and was later drawn into Career and Technical Education after teaching English within an automotive program. A veteran trades educator, Chitambar holds a Master’s in Educational Leadership, ASE credentials, and honors including the 2019 Angelo J. Dorta Teaching Excellence Award from the Vermont NEA and Career Center Teacher of the Year. She continuously expands her expertise through the ASE Instructor’s Conference, the National Automotive Instructors Conference, and hosts an annual technician update training with Weber State University.
Inside her classroom, Chitambar runs an industry-aligned environment where students master diagnostic techniques, electrical wiring, welding, and electric vehicle builds. Students execute work orders, research specifications, and tackle intricate restorations such as a 1968 VW Beetle and a 1948 MG alongside retired trades mentors. The program offers six dual-enrollment college credits and industry-recognized credentials, including Vermont State Motor Vehicle Inspection, ASE student, Lifting It Right, and NC3 certifications. Through asynchronous academic modules and differentiated hands-on challenges, students gain deep technical competence and independent problem-solving skills.
Chitambar previously was a finalist for the 2023 Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence.
- Business & Industry Alignment: Partners with local car club Cars of Yesteryear to host an annual car show and barbecue, provide student scholarships, and award fully equipped roll-away toolboxes.
- Key Program Impact: Ensures 100% of students access work-based learning opportunities through co-ops and job shadows, exceeding the 50% to 60% standard benchmark.
- Community Connection: Connects students to local history by restoring community-owned classic vehicles, repairing raffle cars to fund local causes, and raising money for Autism Speaks and local nursing home enrichment.