Eureka, CA — Humboldt County Office of Education (HCOE) recently held its third annual Career Technical Education (CTE) Student Recognition Ceremony, honoring outstanding high school seniors who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, skill, and achievement in their chosen CTE pathways.
The event brought together students, families, educators, and community partners to celebrate 18 students from seven Humboldt County high schools, representing eight industry sectors.
Humboldt County Superintendent of Schools Michael Davies-Hughes addressed attendees, emphasizing the broader impact of CTE programs. He highlighted how CTE connects classroom learning to real-world application, helping students build confidence, purpose, and practical experience.
“These students are not just preparing for the future—they are already helping shape it,” he said, applauding the collective efforts of educators, families, and community partners who make CTE programs possible.
The awards ceremony continued with Tanya Trump, Director of the Career & College Resources Department, who praised both the students and the collaborative effort behind the event. Students were nominated by CTE teachers, completed an application, submitted work samples, and produced short videos showcasing their learning and growth.
Each honoree was recognized individually, with their project video shown before they took the stage to receive a certificate and scholarship award. The evening highlighted the pride these students take in their work and their dedication to going above and beyond in their respective pathways.
HCOE extends congratulations to all recognized students and gratitude to the educators, families, and community members who continue to invest in Career Technical Education as a powerful pathway to student success.
Congratulations to the 2026 CTE Humboldt Student Recognition Team!
Arcata High
- Nathaniel Stiles, Building & Construction Trades
- River Mattole, Building & Construction Trades
- Fionn Conroy, Arts/Media & Entertainment
- Mia Nannizzi, Agriculture
Eureka High School
- Reid Brown, Agriculture
- Ethan Murphy, Automotive/ Transportation
- Megan Secor, Agriculture
Ferndale High School
- Alayna Cooney, Agriculture
- Finnigan Holmes, Agriculture
- Tyler Berti, Agriculture
- Tinnley Pidgeon, Health Science & Medical Technology
Fortuna High School
- Jack Gonzales, Manufacturing & Product Development
- Keira Miles, Agriculture
- Liam Gessner, Arts/Media/Entertainment
McKinleyville High School
- Jaylee Lopez, Hospitality, Tourism & Recreation
- Natalie Adams, Agriculture
Six Rivers Charter School
- Ruby Smith, Arts/Media & Entertainment
- South Fork High School
- Jaxson Burnett, Manufacturing & Product Development
To learn more about CTE Humboldt, visit https://hcoe.org/cte/
CONTACT: Ann Marie Gildersleeve, Program and Event Coordinator, Humboldt County Office of Education, 707-441-3954 agildersleeve@hcoe.org