MESA, Arizona – April 27, 2026 – Michael Voss, Mesa Community College (MCC) Dean of Instruction – Allied Health, Applied Sciences & Technology, Business and Computer Information Systems, has been named the 2026 Career and Technical Education (CTE) State Award by Arizona Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTEAZ).

The award highlights Voss’ leadership in strengthening CTE programs and unwavering commitment to expanding learning opportunities for students. Under his guidance, MCC has made meaningful progress in aligning academic programs with industry needs, expanding access through initiatives such as prior learning assessment, supporting student retention and proactive graduation efforts.

“This recognition reflects the collective work happening across Mesa Community College,” says Voss. “I am fortunate to work alongside faculty, staff and partners who are deeply committed to creating high-quality CTE pathways that expand opportunity for our students. This recognition belongs to everyone who has contributed to that work. I also want to thank West-MEC Post-Secondary Partnerships Manager Speranta Klees for the nomination and her continued partnership in advancing CTE opportunities for students across the Valley.”

Voss will receive the award at the ACTEAZ Connection Conference in July. The CTE State Awards programcelebrates excellence across Arizona, representing a strong statewide commitment to workforce development and student success.

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Media Contact: Dawn Zimmer, dawn.zimmer@mesacc.edu, 480-461-7892

Mesa Community College (MCC) is nationally recognized for its excellence in university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement, and innovative education. Serving more than 25,500 students annually, MCC offers a range of degree and certificate programs across its two campuses and additional locations. MCC students contribute more than 8,500 hours of community service annually. MCC serves as a key resource for education, workforce development, and lifelong learning. The college enhances student success through Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services. A Hispanic Serving Institution, nearly 50% of MCC students are first-generation college attendees, and it boasts the largest Indigenous student population among Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) colleges, supporting students from 22 Arizona tribes and additional out-of-state tribes. Our award-winning faculty are committed to helping students achieve their goals through high-quality education, training and undergraduate research opportunities. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, MCC is one of 10 MCCCD colleges. Learn more at mesacc.edu/newsroom.

MCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), hlcommission.org.

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District. MCCCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.