ELLENSBURG — A group representing vocational and technical educators across Washington have named Rep. Matt Manweller, R-Ellensburg, as their “legislator of the year.”

The Washington Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) gave Manweller the award for “his strong leadership in the past two legislative sessions to bring vocational education back to schools,” according to an ACTE news release.

“He’s been very helpful,” said Tim Knue, ACTE’s executive director. “We appreciate his tenacious advocacy that college is not for all, especially some straight out of high school, plus his understanding on the need for a skilled workforce.”

ACTE represents and advocates for career and technical educators and students across the state, Knue said.

Knue explained that while none of the bills on vocational and technical may bear Manweller’s name, he was instrumental in convincing House Republicans to support technical education.

“He gets it,” Knue said. “He gets that kids need to come out (of school) and be able to participate in society and the economy.”

Manweller, in a statement, said he is “honored to receive this award” and that he plans to continue focusing on career and technical education during his time in the state legislature.

“As an educator I am fully aware not everyone needs a four-year degree to be successful,” Manweller said in the statement. “Providing career and technical education opportunities for students gives us a chance to show them there are multiple pathways to obtaining a family-sustaining job or career.”

Knue said the state requires every student to take one credit of career/technical education (CTE) to ensure that “all kids get exposure” and know what alternatives exist for them.

“It’s growing,” Knue said of technical education. “There’s lots of interest, and a need for a skilled workforce.”

Charles H. Featherstone can be reached via email at countygvt@columbiabasinherald.com.