Brian Rhodes Receives National PLTW Engineering Teacher of the Year Award

By Jennifer Russo

When you meet Brian Rhodes, you are immediately struck by his friendly demeanor, humble nature, and winning smile. This passionate instructor clearly loves what he does for a living, teaching Engineering and Robotics at Blackstone Valley Tech and encouraging students to be their best selves and to love learning new things. His unique way of teaching recently earned him the 2024 National Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Engineering Teacher of the Year Award, an accolade he received over 9,000 other PLTW instructors teaching the vocation in the United States.

A Bellingham High School graduate, Brian decided to enter the U.S. Navy, where he spent two years learning about engineering concepts and nuclear power theory, along with hands-on training on how to operate the equipment utilized on nuclear submarines, cruisers, and aircraft carriers.

“This made the learning relevant and allowed me to make immediate connections,” shares Brian. Completing his bachelor’s degree in Nuclear Engineering Tech shortly after his 6-year enlistment, Brian entered the private sector working with semiconductors and nanotechnology, where he was also tasked with training new personnel. He then decided to return to his original calling to pursue a career in public education.

“I specifically chose to work in a vocational technical high school, because the methodology of learning theory and concepts in a classroom followed by applying hands-on practical training is crucial,” he shares.

“This goal to create graduates that are ready to enter the workforce with a skilled trade has met with resounding success. Vocational graduates also value training and become lifelong learners. I believe that learning in a vacuum without understanding the purpose or application of concepts makes it difficult for a teen to want to learn. Vocational education has found a way to engage our future generations.”

In late October, BVT surprised Brian with an on-site ceremony attended by school administrators, instructors, students, PLTW organization leaders, Massachusetts state legislators, and Brian’s wife and daughter. When he walked in, he was amazed at the crowd that welcomed him and sat smiling as speakers took the podium to share some words.

“BVT and PLTW have seen this community of educators expand significantly over the last decade. What started here as an elective class on the academic cycle has grown into a massive implementation, and none of this would have been possible if it were not for the passion and vision brought forth by Mr. Rhodes and his team,” shared Dr. Matthew Connors, BVT Vocational Director.

“Mr. Rhodes encouraged me to join the Engineering program after the freshman exploratory. He helped shape me into the student I am today and gave direction but did so in a way where it still allowed me to learn everything on my own. He genuinely cares for the wellbeing of each one of his students and wants to see everyone succeed both inside and outside the classroom,” said Gabrielle Gannon, class of 2026.

“Mr. Rhodes is more than just a great teacher, he is a coach, mentor, and role model to all of the students. I believe some people are just meant to be teachers, and he is absolutely one of those people,” shared Caroline Gallant, Engineering and Robotics graduate of 2020.

Dr. David Dimmett, President and CEO of PLTW, shared the significance of taking a moment each year with these awards to celebrate great work, mentioning that Brian is not only a great teacher in his own right, but an outstanding resource for others in the profession.

Brian was then recognized by the state as Senator Ryan Fattman, Representative Michael Soter, and a representative from Senator Rebecca Rausch’s office presented official citations extending congratulations for receiving the PLTW award, wishing him success, and reiterating the profound impact that teachers have on the lives of their students.

“The work ethic of our teachers here is beyond the norm. I would see Brian here at nights, weekends and even during the summer. He is that guy. When Brian took over the reins for this program, he continued to bring this shop to a whole new level and the popularity of it among the students continues to grow and grow. This is his life’s passion, and it is more than evident,” closed Anthony Steele, BVT Assistant Superintendent and Principal.

Brian encourages the community to support their local vocational technical high schools, to hear with an open mind the suggestions and advice given by our school leaders, and to provide additional cooperative education opportunities for the programs offered there.

About how he felt about winning the PLTW award, Brian simply stated that it was “the most significant event or accomplishment in my entire career in any capacity. I was and still am in awe and amazement to have this honor bestowed upon me. The continuous support throughout our school from the top down is what makes it possible to have such success in the classroom. The award has also reinspired me to be certain to give every student every opportunity to enjoy learning.”

 Congratulations Brian on your amazing achievement