The Cisco Networking Academy has honored Dr. Dwight Watt, instructor of Computer Information Systems Technology at Georgia Northwestern Technical College, with its 2025 Instructor Excellence Advanced Level Award for outstanding teaching and student success.

According to Cisco Networking Academy, the award recognizes Watt’s exceptional instruction and contributions to the program, noting his strong student feedback and performance as part of his global standing among top instructors.

Watt serves as the primary contact for the Cisco Networking Academy at GNTC and is a Cisco-certified Networking Academy instructor. GNTC officials praised his continued commitment to excellence in the classroom and dedication to helping students succeed.

Watt said he was honored to receive the recognition and remains focused on making sure students receive the latest instruction in networking and cybersecurity. He noted that he takes training several times a year to stay current in a field that is constantly changing.

At GNTC, Watt teaches several courses using Cisco materials, including Introduction to Networks, Cisco Switching, Routing and Wireless Essentials, Enterprise Networking, Security and Automation, and Implementing Operating Systems Security. He said it has been rewarding to watch students move into successful careers after completing the training.

The Instructor Excellence Advanced Level Award recognizes instructors ranked in the top 25 percent globally. To qualify, an instructor must have taught at least 20 Networking Academy students during the calendar year and met performance benchmarks tied to final exam completion and course feedback.

This is not the first time Watt has received national recognition from Cisco. He also received the 2024 Instructor Excellence Advanced Level Award as well as the Instructor 25 Years of Service Award.

Watt holds degrees from Winthrop University and the University of Georgia, and he has earned more than 50 certifications in the Information Technology field.