Congratulations to MKHS senior Aidan Chan and Wood Tech teacher Paul Lam. Both were honored at the 2025 Los Angeles County Industrial and Technology Education Association (LACITEA) Annual Awards Banquet.
Article by Natalie Tee Gaither
Mark Keppel High School senior Aiden Chan and Wood Technology teacher Paul Lam were recently honored at the Los Angeles County Industrial and Technology Education Association (LACITEA) Annual Awards Banquet. This annual event recognizes excellence in Career Technical Education (CTE) and brings together top educators and students from across Los Angeles County.
Aiden Chan received a $2,000 Wood Technology scholarship, which he plans to use as he continues his education. The award highlights his dedication to applied learning and his success in a hands-on, career-focused program.
His teacher, Mr. Paul Lam, was recognized as the High School Teacher of the Year; an honor that reflects his longstanding commitment to high-quality CTE instruction and mentorship. Lam has led the Wood Technology program at Mark Keppel High School for nine years, helping students build both technical skills and confidence through real-world projects and competitions.
Dr. Leann Huang, Alhambra Unified School District’s Coordinator of College & Career Preparation, praised both honorees and highlighted the importance of strong teaching in successful CTE programs. “Mr. Paul Lam exemplifies everything you want in a Career Technical Education teacher,” said Dr. Huang. “He’s passionate about his subject, constantly innovating in his classroom, and deeply committed to his students’ individual growth. His ability to connect with students, challenge them, and guide them toward success has made a lasting impact at Mark Keppel and throughout our district.”
Dr. Huang also reflected on the significance of student achievements like Aidan’s. “Seeing students like Aidan thrive in our programs is what makes all of us in CTE so proud. These accomplishments show how powerful it can be when students have access to hands-on learning, strong mentorship, and a clear path to their future.”
Representatives from AUSD joined other educators and industry partners at the LACITEA banquet to celebrate the night’s honorees and the continued growth of CTE opportunities across the region. The district offers a variety of career pathways in fields such as engineering, digital media, health sciences, business, and the industrial arts. These programs continue to expand in response to student interest and workforce demand.Alhambra Unified and Mark Keppel High School expressed pride in both recognitions, emphasizing their reflection on the larger districtwide commitments to providing students with real-world skills and meaningful preparation to be life- and future-ready after high school. Learn more about the many CTE offerings at www.ausd.us/cte.
Aidan Chan and Paul Lam were surrounded by many friends and fans at this LACITEA 2025 Annual Awards Banquet.
