Receiving an honorable mention in The News’ Hvacr Instructor of the Year Contest is Joseph E. Nodine. An instructor in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning courses at Middlesex County Vocational and Technical High School in East Brunswick, NJ, Nodine wrote and developed the Hvac curriculum for the department and the district when he initiated the program seven years ago.

The four-year Hvac technical program boasts 100% school-to-work job placement for the past four years, every year students have graduated.

Nodine implemented ARI-GAMA testing, and also coordinates volunteer projects with Habitat for Humanity and the local Rotary Clubs. Using hands-on training and one-on-one instruction to bring theory to life for his classes, Nodine also supplements his classroom teaching with field trips and jobsite visits with local contractors.

Nodine often applies lessons from his own business experience; he currently runs NAC Mechanical, Inc., Howell Township, NJ.

From the nomination forms received from his students, it’s clear that Nodine embodies that mix of insight, humor, and discipline that makes learning fun. The students also expressed appreciation for Nodine’s efforts beyond the classroom, where he often worked late to set up after-school jobs, secure funding for the shop, and serve as a mentor, career counselor, and sounding board for members of his class.

In the words of one nominating student, “He never stops giving lessons so that we can go out in the real world and be successful.”

Informed of the award, an appreciative Nodine was typically focused on his students. “It’s an honor to be nominated by them,” he said.

Publication date: 09/25/2000