Teacher of the Year

Headshot of Dr. Ashley Harwood

2024 Teacher of the Year

Congratulations Dr. Ashley Harwood

CTC Hull Street - Physical and Occupational Therapy

Dr. Ashley Harwood is a talented educator and practicing physical therapist who builds positive, purposeful and professional relationships with all of her students. Her lessons are dynamic and engaging and set the standard for learning in a high school career and technical education course. In fact, her students have earned a 100% pass rate on the certified physical therapy aide exam since she began teaching at CTC@Hull in 2021. Ashley’s knowledge and passion for the field of physical therapy partnered with her kindhearted spirit and warmth make her a rock star!

Headshot of Will Willis

2024 Teacher of the Year

Congratulations Will Willis

CTC Courthouse - Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Will Willis has 17 years of experience in trades as a director, 10 years in the field as an HVAC tech and experience as general manager of a mechanical contracting company. Because he wanted to help apprentices, he shifted into education. Student success is important, and he encourages student ownership in their education. Together, they create goals and seek EPA 608 certification. Will has worked hard on building his advisory committee. His advisers expect a level of learning, and he applies their input to lessons in order to promote growth and continued student employment.

Headshot of James Myers

2024 New Teacher of the Year

Congratulations James Myers

CTC Hull Street - Advanced Engineering & Manufacturing

James Myers is the Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing (AEM) teacher at CTC Hull campus.  He brings his more than 26 years of industry engineering and manufacturing experience into the classroom through labs, projects and mind break challenges that engage the students as individuals and teams.  He works to leverage the strong group of work based learning partners to CCTC, by offering speakers, plant tours and internships to the AEM students.  Outside of the classroom he is active in the community as a member of the Brightpoint Community College Foundation Board, a STEM counselor and leader with Scouts BSA and a club field hockey coach.

Headshot of Shanti Pelham

2024 New Teacher of the Year

Congratulations Shanti Pelham

CTC Courthouse - Medical Assisting

Shanti Pelham holds the firm belief that each student entering her classroom is significant. Right from the start, she ensures that students sense their individual worth, setting a positive tone for the entire school year. Infusing her daily teachings with the core values of integrity and excellence, she imparts these principles to her students consistently.

Since August 2023, Shanti has actively served on the boards of VA HAMSEA and VA ACTE, showcasing her commitment to education at a broader level. Known for her agility in learning, she continually seeks opportunities to enhance her department, reflecting her dedication to ongoing improvement.

Shanti exudes a perpetual positive attitude and takes joy in assisting others. In her role as a medical assistant teacher, she not only imparts knowledge but also inspires her students to become compassionate caregivers, instilling in them a passion for their chosen path.