The Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) of Virginia recognized Gar-Field High School’s Michael Carter as the 2024 Plumbing Teacher of the year.

Carter is the first high school teacher to be awarded teacher of the year by PHCC. Carter has also been nominated by the national chapter of PHCC for the national plumbing teacher of the year. He will travel to Birmingham, Alabama in October where the awards ceremony will be held.

“Teaching is more about than just what happens in the classroom,” said Carter. “For me, it’s about the connections I have made with my past and present students, it’s about teaching them life skills that they can carry with them.”

“As one of Mr. Carter’s students, I could say that he has helped us see life from different perspectives,” shared Lixei, one of Mr. Carter’s current students. “He showed us how to make better decisions, follow our dreams, be patient, show respect, have fun, and enjoy the small things.”

“If it weren’t for him, I honestly don’t know where I would be right now, but thanks to him, I have a nice job, I have good benefits like health, retirement, and schooling, and I just want to let you know that I really appreciate it,” said former student Ashley Gongora, who now works with Prince William Water. Ashley attributes what she learned from Carter as a large reason for her success.

“PHCC of Virginia is a proud 100-year-old trade association, dedicated to serving the needs of our members, plumbing and HVAC contractors,” said Alex Forster, PHCC NoVa president. “We focus on education, advancement, and providing resources to ensure the success of our members.”

The PHCC Plumbing Instructor of the Year Award recognizes instructors who have dedicated their careers to enriching the lives of plumbing students through outstanding instruction in their field. Nominees must be instructors at a career and technical school, community college, apprenticeship, or adult education program. Nominations for this award may be made by anyone who has seen firsthand the skills and abilities of an instructor.