Polk County High School agriculture education teacher Ashley Gilbert has been named one of 24 finalists for the prestigious NCCAT 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Career and Technical Teacher of the Year Award.
Gilbert, who was previously recognized as the West Regional Teacher of the Year by the North Carolina Agriculture Teachers Association, now joins an elite group of educators from across the state competing for the top honor in career and technical education.
The award, developed through a partnership between the North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching, the N.C. Department of Public Instruction and the North Carolina Association for Career and Technical Education, recognizes outstanding CTE educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment to inspiring and empowering their students.
“These CTE teachers represent the outstanding CTE programs across the state,” said John Kirkman, NCACTE executive director. “They provide innovative opportunities for students to prepare and engage their career interests while supporting their communities. These finalists are building tomorrow’s leaders today.”
Gilbert, a 2007 graduate of Polk County High School and 2011 graduate of North Carolina State University, has made a significant impact on agricultural education in her home district. Her selection as a finalist reflects her dedication to preparing students for careers in agriculture while fostering leadership skills that extend beyond the classroom.
The 24 finalists will participate in a week of professional development at the Truist Leadership Institute in Greensboro from Dec. 1-5. The state winner will be announced during a ceremony Dec. 4 at the Koury Convention Center in Greensboro.
The winner receives a $5,000 cash prize, participation in the national ACTE conference, instructional supply funds for their school and a three-year NCACTE membership. The runner-up receives $2,000 and a three-year membership, while all finalists receive travel expenses, substitute costs and a one-year NCACTE membership.
“Career and Technical Education is a cornerstone of opportunity, and the finalists represent the very best of what’s possible when educators are empowered to lead with purpose, creativity and care,” said Alfred Mays, chief diversity officer at the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, the award’s signature sponsor.
