The Explore the New Manufacturing program announced today that James Overbaugh has been recognized with an Outstanding Industry Educator award. Overbaugh, a robotics and manufacturing instructor, is employed at the Ben Franklin Career Center (BFCC). He will receive a $500 award designated for classroom enhancement. He will also be presented with a commemorative wooden plaque and gift basket featuring products made in West Virginia.
“With 20 years of manufacturing experience under his belt, Mr. Overbaugh has shown complete dedication to the students in his Robotics program,” noted Jennifer Reynolds, BFCC. “He is always working toward getting the newest equipment and instruction for his students, pushes them to be better versions of themselves, and makes them believe that there is nothing they can't achieve.”
Launched in 2020, the Emerging Elite in Manufacturing and Outstanding Industry Educator awards celebrate the skills and dedication of students and educators across West Virginia. “James Overbaugh strives to make sure his students have the technical and personal skills that will provide them with a successful future,” said Program Director Monica Cross, who oversees the Explore the New Manufacturing program on behalf of the West Virginia Manufacturers Association Educational Fund’s efforts to create student awareness and excitement about careers in manufacturing and the training opportunities for these positions in their local areas.
The Outstanding Industry Educator awardees are making positive impacts in the classroom. Student success is often the result of a dynamic teacher and inspires pupils to work harder to pursue a rewarding future. Awardees have championed students on multiple Explore the New Manufacturing events and in Career Technical Education endeavors.
Overbaugh’s award is part of Explore’s Emerging Elite in Manufacturing and Outstanding Industry Educator awards. Profiles of all award recipients will be available on the Explore the New Manufacturing website after they have been announced. https://www.exploremfgwv.com/awards
