PARKERSBURG - A teacher in the Wood County has been recognized by a state trade group.

Jared Voldness received an Outstanding Industry Educator Award in the high school division for dedication in the classroom in the Explore the New Manufacturing Program through the West Virginia Manufacturers Association Educational Fund.

Voldness is a teacher at the Wood County Technical Center and the Caperton Center for Applied Technology where he works with students in the areas of pre-engineering and computer science.

He will receive a $500 award for classroom enhancement and a commemorative wooden plaque and gift basket featuring products made in West Virginia.

"Jared gives an enormous amount of time to benefit students," Pier Bocchini, principal of the Technical Center and Caperton Center.

Voldness with another instructor started a First Robotics Club and meets with students after school and at times on weekends, Bocchini said.

"Jared and some of his students made PPE equipment utilizing the 3D printer," Bocchini said. "These were donated to various healthcare professionals,"

The Emerging Elite in Manufacturing & Outstanding Industry Educator Awards were created in 2020 and recognize skills and dedication of students and educators across West Virginia.

"Jared is a champion for his students who utilizes a myriad of resources to provide development opportunities for his students, including teaming with DuPont in the 2020-2021 Manufacturing Innovation Challenge," Monica Cross, program director of Explore the New Manufacturing, said. "We are honored to recognize Jared for his commitment and excellence,"

Voldness' award is part of the 14-day awards announcement series. Recipients for 2021 are announced at noon daily.