Josie Miller, Work-Based Learning Coordinator for Wildcat Creek Career Cooperative, has been recognized by the Indiana Commission for Higher Education and the Indiana Department of Education as a recipient of the 2026 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Awards for Excellence in Secondary Career Services. The statewide award honors outstanding educators and leaders who demonstrate exceptional impact in Career and Technical Education through innovation, student support, and workforce partnerships.
Miller was recognized for her leadership in expanding and strengthening work-based learning opportunities for students across Clinton County. Through a deeply student-centered approach, she meets individually with prospective students to identify career interests, educational goals, and meaningful placement opportunities that align with their future aspirations. Her commitment to helping students discover the right pathway has created transformative experiences that connect classroom learning with real-world career preparation.
Under Miller’s leadership, the Work-Based Learning program has experienced tremendous growth. During the 2023–2024 school year, the program served 11 students with eight business partners across three pathways. By the 2025–2026 school year, participation had expanded to 63 students, 45 business partners, and 17 career pathways, including 35 new employer partnerships. To ensure sustainable growth, Miller has also trained teachers across partner schools to assist with student mentoring, check-ins, and record keeping.
“Josie’s dedication to students and her ability to build strong relationships with employers and community partners have transformed opportunities for students throughout our cooperative,” said Georgia Everett, Director of Wildcat Creek Career Cooperative. “She works tirelessly to help students build confidence, develop professional skills, and discover career pathways that align with their goals. This recognition is incredibly well deserved.”
Miller also leads impactful career readiness initiatives that provide students with authentic professional experiences. These include the Annual Career Readiness Student Workshop, where students participate in resume development, mock interviews, workplace communication training, and job application preparation, as well as the cooperative’s Reverse Job Fair, which connects students directly with local employers.
Students, employers, and community partners alike have praised Miller’s mentorship and commitment to student success. In a nomination support letter, student Alexcia Cardwell shared how Miller helped her recognize the value of transferable skills gained during her placement experience and consistently encouraged her to pursue her future career goals with confidence.
Community partners have also highlighted Miller’s lasting impact. Rachel Milburn of the Frankfort Community Public Library credited Miller with preparing students not only with technical knowledge, but also essential professional skills such as communication, professionalism, and workplace advocacy. Milburn noted that student interns supported through the program have contributed meaningful initiatives benefiting the broader community.
The Indiana CTE Awards for Excellence recognize students, educators, counselors, programs, and partnerships that exemplify the highest quality Career and Technical Education experiences across the state. Recipients are selected based on their leadership, innovation, community involvement, and demonstrated impact on student success and workforce development.