John “Tooter” Booth has been recognized by the Kentucky Community and Technical College System for his dedication to students in the electrical technology program at the Carroll County Area Technology Center.
Booth, who has served this community as a master electrician for many years, received notice this week that he was nominated as a KCTCS Pathfinder of the Year. “A trade is not a hobby, it’s a skill,” Booth said.
“Your nomination is a testament to the profound difference you make in the lives of your students and colleagues. It is a well-deserved recognition of your hard work, dedication, and passion for higher education,” KCTCS President Ryan Quarles wrote in his letter to Booth.
Booth, who many of his students affectionately call pawpaw, thinks outside the box with them and encourages them to pursue their careers as electricians in traditional and new fields, such as solar power. Most recently, his students are working on updating emergency lighting systems and are currently installing a security system at the school. They also completed a Christmas display this year and have installed and wired year-around outdoor lighting at the ATC.
The criteria for the nomination include encouraging students to attend a KCTCS college, assisting students to identify a career and postsecondary path, providing mentorship to students and maintaining contact with students.