Students recognized for hands-on learning, certifications, competitions and career preparation across multiple programs
Wylie High School celebrated students across its Career and Technical Education programs during the annual CTE Awards Ceremony, recognizing the hard work, dedication and accomplishments of students preparing for life beyond the classroom.
The ceremony highlighted students from Engineering, Education and Training, Culinary Arts, Purple Dog Company and the Certified Nursing Assistant program. Throughout the evening, students were honored for gaining hands-on experience, earning industry-based certifications, completing programs of study, advancing in competitions and developing skills that can carry them into college, careers and service to others.
“This is a night to celebrate the hard work, dedication and accomplishments of our students,” CTE Director Amy Fecci said during the ceremony. She also thanked teachers, families, administrators, counselors, business partners and community supporters for helping make the opportunities possible.
The evening began with Engineering, where students were recognized for projects that showed creativity, problem-solving and technical skill. Teacher John Vann described the work students completed this year, including robotics projects and a prosthetic hand. Vann said students had the opportunity to work with robotics, travel and take part in meaningful hands-on experiences throughout the year.
Education and Training students were also recognized for their work in a program designed to introduce students to careers in education. Students study teaching strategies, lesson planning, differentiation, college planning and child development before moving into hands-on classroom experiences with mentor teachers at Wylie campuses. The program also saw strong success through the Texas Association of Future Educators, with 32 students advancing to state and six advancing to national competition.
Culinary Arts and Hospitality students were honored for classroom achievement and industry preparation. Several students were recognized for maintaining strong academic performance, while others were celebrated for completing an industry-based certification in culinary arts after completing an advanced culinary course and passing a challenging exam.
Purple Dog Company students were recognized for their work in Wylie High School’s student-run entrepreneurial program. The program gives students real-world experience building community connections, operating a business with purpose and developing practical skills in areas such as business management, entrepreneurship and marketing. Senior members were recognized for earning entrepreneurship and small business industry-based certifications while completing specialized tracks within the program.
The ceremony also included a meaningful recognition for Wylie High School’s newest Certified Nursing Assistants. Dr. Lex Hood praised the CNA students for their dedication, patience, compassion and hard work, reminding them that the work they do matters.
“Every patient you help, every family member you comfort, and every act of kindness you give will make a difference,” Hood said during the ceremony. Family members and friends were invited on stage to take part in the pinning ceremony, marking a special moment for students who completed the program.
Hood also recognized the partnership with Wisteria Place Rehabilitation, where students complete clinical hours as part of the CNA program. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical work with residents, giving students real experience in the healthcare field.
By the end of the evening, the message was clear: Wylie CTE students are not just learning about future careers - they are already building the skills, confidence and experience to pursue them.
Congratulations to all students recognized during the CTE Awards Ceremony. Wylie ISD is proud of your accomplishments and excited to see where your hard work takes you next.
