ISU’s College of Technology Shines at Connect Conference 

A faculty member and programs in the Idaho State University’s College of Technology were recently recognized at the Connect Idaho Career Technical Education Summer Conference. Amy Koplin, a clinical assistant professor and program coordinator for the College of Technology Early Childhood Care and Education, was honored with a Postsecondary Instructor of the Year award and the Energy Systems Nuclear Operations Technology program received an Honorable Mention for Postsecondary Exemplary Program.

Idaho’s largest professional meeting for Career Technical Education (CTE) professionals, programs and industry partners was held in Meridian July 31 to Aug. 3, 2024. It provided an abundance of opportunities for attendees, bringing together the finest industry professionals to collaborate and build an interdisciplinary network aimed to propel the success of CTE. Educators from regions across the state were exposed to a wealth of opportunities through keynote speakers, unique networking connections and knowledge sharing in deep dive sessions. 

Koplin, was recognized as the Postsecondary Instructor of the Year for region five — which covers southeast Idaho. This award highlights outstanding postsecondary educators who have shown commitment to CTE development, going above and beyond expectations and positively impacting their students and academic institutions.

“I was very honored to be nominated and receive the award,” said Koplin. “I wouldn't have been able to do it without the support I received from all my coworkers and my students throughout my career. The true honor is watching my students and their impact on children and their families.”

Koplin has worked at the College of Technology Early Childhood Care and Education program for 13 years and previously in the ISU College of Education for more than seven years — demonstrating her loyalty and professional value to education. She finds joy in knowing she has positively impacted her students, which fuels her passion for educating the next generation. 

“As her chair, I have found Ms. Koplin to be thoughtful, engaged and ready to provide support and feedback in every situation,” said College of Technology Business and Support Services Department Chair Dr. Clayn Lambert. “In addition to a workload few other faculty might be able to handle, Ms. Koplin is incredibly active in her community-centered professional service, sitting on several public and state-wide committees. … [Her] work ethic and performance have consistently ranked at the top of the Business and Support Service Department, and in my professional opinion, at the top of the College of Technology as a whole.”

Additionally, the College of Technology’s Nuclear Operations Technology program received an Honorable Mention for Postsecondary Exemplary Program.

“The Energy Systems Technology and Education Center (ESTEC) Department at ISU offers an extraordinary hands-on educational experience for students, and the Nuclear Operations program is proud to be part of this well-established center and delighted to be recognized among the top CTE programs in Idaho,” said Program Coordinator Mackenzie Gorham. “The staff and instructors' passion for their students, their strong professional experience and the support of the larger ISU community contributed to the program's success, and we look forward to continuing to unite well-prepared graduates with quality careers in the nuclear industry!”

Jordan Williams, a clinical instructor for Nuclear Operations Technology said “Studying nuclear energy provides students with the cutting-edge knowledge and skills needed to drive innovation in a crucial and growing field. Investing in a nuclear energy education opens doors to careers that shape the future of clean, sustainable energy.”

The recognition for Koplin and the Nuclear Operations Technology program at the Connect Summer Conference illustrates the dedication to student success and drive for academic excellence that is fostered in the College of Technology.