Tri County Tech Instructor Named OkACTE New Teacher of the Year

Casey Woods, Medicine & Biosciences Instructor, named the Oklahoma Association of Career and Technology Education’s New Teacher of the Year

Tri County Tech’s Medicine & Biosciences Instructor, Casey Woods, was named the Oklahoma Association of Career and Technology Education’s New Teacher of the Year during the 58th annual CareerTech Summit at the Arvest Convention Center on August 4, 2025.

The award recognizes an outstanding Career and Technical Education (CTE) educator with up to five years of experience in a career or technical education setting. This educator has not only introduced meaningful contributions toward career and technical education programs, but has also showcased remarkable professional commitment from the onset of their career.

“I’m incredibly honored to be named OkACTE New Teacher of the Year. Teaching Biomedical Sciences at Tri County Tech has been a deeply rewarding experience—watching students discover their passion for science and healthcare inspires me daily. This recognition reflects the amazing support from my colleagues and the drive of our students. It’s exciting to be empowering the next generation of innovators and caregivers.” – Casey Woods, Medicine & Biosciences Instructor at Tri County Tech

Woods received a $5,000 cash award along with a plaque and a student-designed trophy.

Other Tri County Tech educators recognized at the ceremony included Brandi Peace, who was recognized as a Teacher of the Year finalist, and Wyatt Gerth and Casey Woods, who were recognized as OkACTE Fellows for their leadership and commitment to career and technical education.

“We are incredibly proud of Casey Woods for being named the OkACTE New Teacher of the Year. Her dedication, innovative approach to teaching, and genuine passion for Medicine & Biosciences have left a meaningful mark on her students and Tri County Tech. Casey embodies the spirit of excellence we value, and this honor is a well-earned reflection of her outstanding work.” – Dr. Tammie. Strobel, Tri County Tech’s Superintendent & CEO

Based in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Tri County Tech serves students from Washington, Osage, and Nowata counties. To learn more about their educators, campus, or upcoming programs and events, visit TriCountyTech.edu.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 60 campuses, 391 PK-12 school districts, 17 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 32 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

About Tri County Tech

We’re one of Oklahoma’s first CareerTech schools and have a steadfast spirit for innovation and improvement – driving economic development since 1967. Our devotion to each other, our students, and the life-changing learning we provide fuels our pursuit of excellence. We call this the “Tri County Way.” We have locations in Bartlesville, Pawhuska, and Nowata, Oklahoma. Tri County Tech is part of the Oklahoma CareerTech system, which offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts and operates on 59 campuses across the state. CareerTech plays a vital role in developing a world-class workforce for Oklahoma employers and prepares Oklahomans to succeed in the workplace, in education, and life.