Georgia Northwestern Technical College faculty and staff have nominated six instructors for the 2026 Rick Perkins Award of Excellence in Technical Instruction, honoring the Technical College System of Georgia’s top educators for innovation and leadership.

The nominees are Nick Barton (Horticulture), Tyler Gayan (Criminal Justice Technology), Ronny Huggins (Automation Engineering Technology), Brandon Johnson (Welding and Joining Technology), Pete Lute (Automotive Technology), and Trevor Roberts (Adult Echocardiography/Ultrasound Programs).

“We are very fortunate at Georgia Northwestern Technical College to have instructors who care so much about the students and the learning process,” said Beverly Padgett, GNTC’s Rick Perkins coordinator. “These nominees continuously go beyond what is expected of them… Our instructors are truly the best of the best!”

The award, renamed in memory of Thomas “Rick” Perkins, has been a statewide program since 1991. A GNTC screening committee reviewed nominations and interviewed each nominee before selecting a winner to represent the college at regional competition.

The winner will be announced at the GOAL and Rick Perkins Presentation Awards Banquet on Tuesday, Jan. 27, in Rome, sponsored by The Seven Hills Rotary Club, the Rome Floyd Chamber, and GNTC.