Brightpoint’s Electricity Career Studies Certificate Recognized with the 2026 Creating Excellence Award

We're proud to share that Brightpoint's career studies certificate (CSC) in electricity received the 2026 Creating Excellence Award as one of Virginia's exemplary workforce education programs.

The Creating Excellence Awards are presented annually by the Virginia Department of Education to recognize programs that promote excellence in career and technical education. Brightpoint was named the winner of the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) Zone 6 Postsecondary Exemplary CTE Program Award for 2026 in recognition of exemplary student career development. 

"The electricity, CSC was developed with two main purposes in mind: to provide the educational foundation needed to qualify for the journeyman electrician exam, and to introduce new students to working with electricity," said Alan Massengill, program coordinator and instructor of electrical engineering technology.

Many of the students who complete the electricity, CSC go on to take and pass their licensing exam. Others use their degree as a starting point and continue their education with Brightpoint's electrical engineering technology, AAS degree program.

"Seeing the students' growth and success, whether they enter the workforce or continue their education, is what makes this work so meaningful," Alan said. 

Career and Education Consortium Coordinator Heather Taylor was a key partner in developing and submitting the Creating Excellence Award nomination, helping ensure the program's impact and achievements were recognized across the Commonwealth. Through her work supporting career and technical education programs, partnerships with high schools, Perkins initiatives, and workforce development efforts, Heather helps create opportunities that strengthen student pathways and program growth. 

"The true inspiration behind pursuing the 2026 Creating Excellence Award was a desire to spotlight the incredible ecosystem built around Brightpoint's electricity, CSC program," said Heather. "At the heart of that success are the instructors, who are genuinely amazing—always willing to go the extra mile to assist students with career pathways and long-term progression."

According to Heather, the unique relationships between faculty and industry are also essential to the program's ability to succeed. 

"Because our instructors work so closely with the local economy, they keep the curriculum razor-sharp, aligning classroom labs directly with the needs of community and regional employers," Heather said. "Witnessing that dedication made submitting the nomination an absolute honor, and seeing the state recognize our faculty’s impact is a thrilling win for the entire Brightpoint community."

Dr. Nancy Sévère-Barnett is the division dean for business, engineering, and technology at Brightpoint. She is especially proud of her team for earning this award. 

"Together, we have built a program that prepares students for in-demand careers while meeting the workforce needs of our region," Nancy said. 

We're honored to be recognized among Virginia's leading career and technical education programs, and remain focused on expanding opportunities for both students and employers.