2025 TCOE Award Recipients

Jim is a recently retired Diesel Equipment Technology Instructor at Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State), closing out his teaching career in January 2025 after more than two decades of dedication to students and the diesel industry. He began teaching in 2004, bringing with him a deep well of technical expertise and real-world experience. A 1983 graduate of Central Lakes College (formerly Staples Area Vocational & Technical Institute), Jim specialized in Diesel and Heavy Equipment Mechanics. His professional development didn’t stop there—he earned factory certifications from Caterpillar, Cummins, Detroit Diesel, Ford, and Iveco, and attended numerous OEM training seminars from industry leaders such as CNH, John Deere, and Bobcat.

Before moving into education, Jim spent 14 years at Boyer Ford Trucks in Minneapolis as a master journeyman technician and six years with Bauerly Brothers Construction as an engine and field technician. He brought that industry experience into the classroom, helping bridge the gap between textbook and toolbox for his students. His commitment extended beyond the classroom through his volunteer work as a SkillsUSA judge while at Boyer and later as a SkillsUSA advisor at M State. His proudest accomplishments include coaching six state champions in SkillsUSA and seeing them rank nationally—placing 8th, 6th (three times), 4th, and 3rd.

Jim’s contributions to technical education have not gone unnoticed—he is a two-time recipient of the Minnesota State Board of Trustees Outstanding Educator Award (2016 and 2023). He also serves on the boards of the Midwest Teachers of Transportation and Industrial Areas (MTTIA) and the American Technical Education Association (ATEA). Outside the classroom and the shop, Jim enjoys spending time on the lake with his wife Angie, their two children, Megan and Nick, and three grandchildren, Emma, Max, and Macy.

Andrew Thul is a veteran educator in the field of automotive technology at Hennepin Technical College (HTC), where he has served as a faculty member for 29 years. Based at the Eden Prairie campus, Thul brings both academic and industry experience to his role.  Andy is an alum of Hennepin Technical College, having completed his Automotive Degree in 1991. He later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Technology Education from the University of Wisconsin–Stout in 1996. His long-standing commitment to student success and hands-on learning has made him a respected figure in Minnesota’s transportation education community.​ 

Thul’s passion for education is deeply rooted in both personal and professional experience. He is committed to preparing students for rewarding careers in the transportation industry by fostering technical skills, critical thinking, and a strong work ethic. Outside the classroom, Thul is actively involved in his community. He volunteers regularly at Saint Bonaventure Church and enjoys walking, fishing, fixing vehicles, and spending time at the lake with friends and family. He and his wife, Shari, have been married since 2005 and are proud parents to Kayla, 16, and Cayden, 12. Thul’s nearly three decades of service at HTC reflect his dedication to preparing students for careers in the automotive industry, fostering both technical expertise and a passion for lifelong learning.  Through his lifelong dedication to teaching, mentoring, and community service, Andrew Thul exemplifies the spirit of excellence celebrated by the Minnesota State Transportation Center of Excellence.

Carl has dedicated over four decades to the automotive industry, beginning his journey at South Central College in North Mankato. Raised on a dairy farm, Carl’s early fascination with fixing and repairing farm equipment led him to pursue a career as an automotive technician. His entrepreneurial spirit shone through when he purchased a local Conoco gas station with two bays while still in college. This venture, Elysian Auto Service, grew under his leadership, eventually expanding to a larger facility with four bays and an alignment rack, serving the surrounding communities and providing employment opportunities for many technicians.

Throughout his career, Carl has amassed an impressive array of certifications, including ASE Master Automobile Technician, ASE Service Consultant, ASE Refrigerant Recovery & Recycling and specialized training in Ford and GM Engine Performance, Enhanced Ignition Diagnostics, Electronic Fuel Injection, and more. His commitment to continuous learning and professional development is evident through his participation in various Automotive Training Institute programs, covering service advising, shop ownership, and marketing.

Carl’s dedication to the automotive field extends beyond his business. Elysian Auto Service was known for its community involvement, offering scholarships to local students pursuing careers in automotive technology and providing internships in collaboration with Riverland Community College and South Central College. Carl’s passion for education and mentorship naturally led him to a teaching position after selling his business in 2024. As an instructor, he leverages his extensive industry experience to prepare students for real-world challenges, emphasizing practical skills, efficient problem-solving, and effective communication.

What Carl enjoys most about working with students is witnessing their transformation. He  loves seeing students evolve from curious and sometimes uncertain individuals into confident, capable automotive technicians. Carl cherishes being part of their journey, helping them build a future they can be proud of. He enjoys challenging them with real-world scenarios, sharing stories from his years in the industry, and helping them connect the dots between classroom learning and shop realities.

With over 40 years in the automotive repair industry, Carl brings real-world knowledge, hard-earned lessons, and practical skills into the classroom every single day. His experience allows him to bridge the gap between textbook theory and what actually happens in a busy, fast-paced shop. He teaches his students how to diagnose problems efficiently, work with confidence under pressure, and communicate clearly with both teammates and customers—just as he has done throughout his career. Carl shares stories from his time at Elysian Auto Service, both successes and mistakes, to help students see that learning is a journey. He wants them to feel proud of choosing this career, to understand the value of skilled hands and sharp minds, and to leave his program not just as technicians, but as professionals ready to represent the automotive industry with pride.

Outside of his professional life, Carl enjoys spending time with his family, including his wife Susan, their two children, and twin granddaughters. He has also been a dedicated member of the Elysian Fire Department for 40 years, serving as Assistant Chief and EMT. Carl’s hobbies include hunting, fishing, boating, and ATVing, reflecting his love for the outdoors and his commitment to community service.

Under the leadership of Automotive Instructor and Technology Education Building Lead Derek Doescher, the Automotive Career Pathway at White Bear Lake Area High School has seen significant growth and success. Since joining White Bear Lake Area Schools in September 2019, Doescher has expanded student enrollment and fostered partnerships with local industry leaders. His efforts have led to over 1,000 students gaining exposure to the automotive industry and more than 250 students enrolling in Automotive Career Pathway courses each year, marking the highest enrollment to date. Doescher’s commitment extends beyond the classroom, as demonstrated by his initiative to increase paid summer work experiences for students, resulting in 31 placements, many of which led to full-time employment offers. During his tenure in White Bear Lake, Doescher has also focused on inclusivity, including increasing female student enrollment in automotive courses from six female students to over 40 annually. 

Doescher brings a rich background in technical education and hands-on industry experience to his role at White Bear Lake Area High School. After high school, he attended Universal Technical Institute (UTI), graduating with honors from the Automotive and Ford Accelerated Credential Training (FACT) programs. After graduating from UTI, Doescher worked in the automotive industry for over eight years as a certified technician for MINI Cooper and Ford. In 2016, he transitioned into education, earning his Bachelor of Science in Technology Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Today, his dedication to continuous education includes becoming Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) master certified and he is currently working on his Master’s degree in Career and Technical Education through the University of Wisconsin-Stout, exemplifying his commitment to being a mentor and leader in the automotive education community.

White Bear Lake Area High School’s Automotive Career Pathway provides students with a well-rounded, hands-on education in automotive technology, equipping them with the skills and certifications necessary for careers in the transportation industry. The curriculum includes courses such as Automotive Technology I, Automotive Technology II: Brakes, Automotive Technology II: Steering and Suspension, Automotive Technology II: Electrical, Car Care, and Engine Repair, providing hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge. A key highlight of the program is its emphasis on industry credentials—students have completed more than 200 modules annually through the Ford Automotive Career Exploration (ACE) program. This commitment to workforce readiness has made the White Bear Lake Automotive program a regional leader in automotive education and certification achievement.

Doescher would also like to thank all the individuals who have donated their time and effort to help support and improve the program over the last six years. Together, we are truly growing the technicians of tomorrow!

Established in 1968, Dave Syverson Auto Center is a family-owned dealership located in Albert Lea, Minnesota. We proudly offer a wide selection of new and pre-owned vehicles, including top brands like Ford, Nissan, Volkswagen, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram. Our commitment extends beyond vehicle sales; we are dedicated to providing exceptional service and fostering lasting relationships within our community.

At Dave Syverson, we believe in doing business differently. Our “Welcome to Different” approach emphasizes transparency, customer satisfaction, and community engagement. We are passionate about supporting the next generation of automotive professionals through partnerships with local schools and transportation-related educational programs. For us, it’s not just about cars — it’s about people, progress, and making a positive impact.

Lynn has dedicated over 35 years to aviation education, currently serving as Case Manager and Academic Advisor at Northland Community and Technical College (NCTC), as well as TCS for Talogy/TRUE Talent. In her role, she supports prospective and current students, oversees compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, and implements proactive retention strategies for aerospace programs. Her commitment to student success also includes placement services, helping graduates transition into meaningful careers. Recognized as Employee of the Year in both 1998 and 2000, Lynn’s strength lies in her ability to connect with others—a skill she treasures, especially when hearing stories from pilots, technicians, and industry partners.

For Lynn, students are at the heart of everything she does. She takes pride in learning about their aspirations, supporting them through their educational journeys, and celebrating their successes beyond the classroom. The relationships she builds often turn into lasting friendships, and her dedication to NCTC has made her a beloved figure in the lives of many alumni. As she looks ahead to retirement, Lynn reflects fondly on the role she’s played in shaping the futures of countless students and the deep personal fulfillment she’s found along the way.

Before joining NCTC, Lynn graduated from the Thief River Falls Area Vocational Technical Institute in 1980 with a focus on Secretarial and Shorthand studies. She worked at a local newspaper for 14 years before pursuing a new path in education. Though her childhood dream of becoming a flight attendant didn’t come true, her passion for aviation found a home at NCTC. From early memories of watching planes with her mother to forming meaningful connections within the industry, Lynn’s journey has come full circle—built on passion and purpose.

Lynn has now been honored as the 2025 Minnesota State TCOE Academic Professional of the Year—an award that speaks volumes about her impact on students, colleagues, and the broader aviation community. One letter of support captured it perfectly: “Simply put, she is the beating heart of NCTC Aerospace.” For Lynn, the recognition is deeply meaningful, but it’s the relationships she’s built and the lives she’s touched that truly define her career. Outside of work, she enjoys the simple joys of life—mowing the lawn, tending to her garden, going for walks, spending time with family and friends, and the occasional motorcycle ride. As she prepares for retirement, Lynn leaves behind a legacy marked by compassion, commitment, and a genuine love for people and aviation.