UPTON – Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School (BVT) instructor Brian Rhodes was recently named a 2024-2025 National Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Engineering Teacher of the Year.  

This award recognizes educators from a nationwide pool of nominees who exhibit exemplary leadership and are committed to expanding STEM access while empowering students to develop key transportable and technical skills. Rhodes has earned this distinction for his work in the PLTW Engineering pathway.

Rhodes is the Engineering & Robotics program team leader at BVT, where he also serves as the PLTW site coordinator. With nearly two decades of teaching experience, he has made significant educational contributions, particularly in coaching students through VEX Robotics, FIRST Robotics, ARC Drone, and Skills USA competitions. His professional experience includes notable service in the United States Navy’s nuclear power program and works within the semiconductor industry, which complements his academic credentials. He holds a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering, an accelerated post-baccalaureate in mathematics, and a master of education in curriculum and teaching. 

"We proudly join PLTW in celebrating and recognizing impactful teaching and learning that prepares students for their future careers," said BVT's Superintendent-Director Michael Fitzpatrick. On behalf of our school community, we acknowledge Mr. Rhodes' exceptional contributions and congratulate him for making an impact, not only with his students in the classroom but within our larger school communities.”

Rhodes was honored at a surprise PLTW award ceremony on Oct. 22 during Massachusetts STEM Week. Rhodes entered his classroom and was stunned to see students, staff, administrators, PLTW representatives, family, and special guests.

The event began with welcoming remarks from Vocational Director Dr. Matthew Connors. Gabrielle Gannon, a junior in the Engineering & Robotics program, and Carolyn Gallant, a 2020 graduate, also spoke highly about having Mr. Rhodes as a teacher. PLTW president and CEO Dr. David Dimmett presented Rhodes with the Teacher of the Year award. 

Special guests included a citation of recognition presented by State legislators Aidan Doherty, District Director of the Office of Senator Rausch, Senator Ryan Fattman, and Representative Michael J. Soter. The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from BVT Assistant Superintendent-Director/Principal Anthony Steele.

After the event, Rhodes said he was proud to have earned the award and recognition. He is incredibly pleased to see his students use their vocational training in their professional careers. 

BVT currently offers 10 PLTW courses including six from the Engineering pathway and four from the Computer Science pathway. BVT has been recognized as a PLTW Distinguished School for seven consecutive years.   

Source: Submitted by BVT