SHELBY, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Pioneer Career and Technology Center celebrated student success at its 2026 Awards Night, bringing together students, families, staff, and community partners to recognize outstanding achievements, dedication to education, and the bright futures ahead.

A highlight of the evening was the announcement that Pioneer seniors have earned more than $1 million in scholarships to further their education. In addition to scholarship recognition, students were honored with a variety of awards celebrating leadership, citizenship, and commitment to their programs, as well as recognition for those who have chosen to serve in the military.

The evening’s highest honor, the Byron H. Carmean Character, Dedication, and Service Award, was presented to Audrey Wolford, an Early Childhood Education senior from Crestview.

Photos: Pioneer Career and Technology Center

Audrey Wolford, Pioneer Senior from Crestview.

Wolford was selected from a group of distinguished nominees for her strong work ethic, leadership, and commitment to her career pathway. She has built an impressive record of achievement both in and out of the classroom.

At Pioneer, she is enrolled in the Early Childhood Education program and also works as a student employee in the Pioneer Preschool, where she assists with daily classroom routines, including student arrival and dismissal, meal preparation, and maintaining a clean and organized learning environment.

Outside of the classroom, she has been actively involved in cross country, track, gymnastics, and 4-H, while also volunteering in her church nursery and babysitting. Her accomplishments include multiple cross country honors, Pioneer Student of the Month recognition, and the Pioneer Junior Citizenship Award—all reflecting her strong work ethic, leadership, and dedication to service.

(L to R): Mr. John Carmean, Audrey Wolford – Crestview Senior, and Pioneer Superintendent, Greg Nickoli, with the 2026 Byron H. Carmean Award.

Pioneer Career and Technology Center is proud to recognize all students who exemplify excellence, leadership, and a passion for learning, and extends its congratulations to the Class of 2026 for their continued success.

(L to R): John Carmean, Audrey Wolford – Crestview Senior, Lindi Meisse, Pioneer Early Childhood Education Instructor, Jim Grubbs Crestview Superintendent, and Pioneer Superintendent, Greg Nickoli.

This year’s Carmean Award nominees, who were also recognized for their achievements, include:
• Jesse Halfhill – College-Now Business, Lexington

• Kinsley Van Dine – Homeland Security, Shelby
• Tyce Lisle – Engineering Design Technology, Colonel Crawford

Pioneer Career and Technology Center has been providing quality career-technical education to high school juniors and seniors for over 50 years. We serve over 1,200 students representing over 35 Career Tech Programs and 14 partner schools and offer adult education programs. Visit our website at PioneerCTC.edu.