Heyward Career and Technology Center Principal Named South Carolina CTE Administrator of the Year

Heyward Career and Technology Center Principal Craig Washington has been named the 2026 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Administrator of the Year by the South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA).

The award is given to a career and technical education administrator in South Carolina who has served in that capacity at least three years. Washington has been the principal at Heyward for four years.

“I am deeply honored to be recognized by SCASA as the CTE Administrator of the Year. This recognition is not just a personal milestone; it reflects the collective commitment of Heyward Career and Technology Center and Richland One,” said Washington.

“Career and technical education opens doors for students to gain high-skill, high-wage opportunities, earn industry credentials and confidently step into their future. This honor affirms the vital role Heyward plays in strengthening partnerships with business and industry while contributing to the growth and development of our state. We are not just preparing students for jobs; we are building a skilled workforce that will shape the future of South Carolina.”

Washington will be recognized during SCASA’s 2026 Innovative Ideas Institute in Myrtle Beach in June.

This is the second year in a row that a Richland One administrator has been named the CTE Administrator of the Year. Chris Dinkins, Richland One’s director of career and technical education, received the award last year.

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PHOTO: Heyward Career and Technology Center Principal Craig Washington has been named the 2026 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Administrator of the Year by the South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA).