The Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) recognized the recipients of its inaugural national awards during SACACON 2026, held August 10–11 at the University of Wisconsin–Stout Polytechnic. The awards honor partner institutions, industry organizations and individuals whose leadership and commitment have advanced SACA’s mission and strengthened the connection between education and the skills demanded by modern industry.
Four awards were presented: K-12 Partner of the Year, Post-Secondary Partner of the Year, Industry Partner of the Year and SACA Champion.
K-12 Partner of the Year: Alief Independent School District
Alief Independent School District was named the inaugural K-12 Partner of the Year, recognizing the district’s commitment to expanding opportunities for students to develop and validate advanced technical skills through SACA. Raymond R. Johnson was recognized for his leadership in strengthening the district’s program and helping students progress to higher levels of SACA certification.
The nominating party recognized Johnson’s efforts to revitalize the CTE program, garnering support from his district, and his passion to deliver advanced manufacturing courses to his students.
Post-Secondary Partner of the Year: iHUB at Northeast Community College
The iHUB at Northeast Community College was named SACA’s inaugural Post-Secondary Partner of the Year. Led by Erin Sharpe, the team began offering SACA certifications in September 2024 and quickly built enthusiasm for the certifications among both instructors and students.
The nominating party said that Northeast Community College has “incorporated the SACA certifications with high results! [Sharpe] really got her team involved and as excited about the certifications as she was. The students have a great team bringing them to the next level.”
Industry Partner of the Year: Endress+Hauser
Endress+Hauser received the inaugural Industry Partner of the Year Award for its significant contributions to SACA and the continued development of industry-aligned certifications. The company has provided technical expertise and industry perspective in the development of SACA’s process control certifications, contributed leadership through participation on the SACACON Steering Committee and supported the broader SACA community as a strong partner of the inaugural national conference.
SACA Champion: Andrew Melvin, Capital Area Career Center
Andrew Melvin of Capital Area Career Center was named the inaugural SACA Champion, a special award that recognizes an individual whose leadership and advocacy have made an exceptional contribution to SACA and its mission.
The nominating party recognized Melvin’s “visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to student success, and tireless advocacy for Industry 4.0 education. As a leader at Capital Area Career Center, Andrew has transformed CACC into a model for integrating industry-recognized credentials with hands-on, competency-based learning. Under his leadership, CACC has launched and expanded SACA-certified programs that equip students with validated, workforce-ready skills and create pathways to employment, apprenticeships, military service, and postsecondary education… and collaborating with industry and workforce partners to strengthen advanced manufacturing education. His leadership has created meaningful partnerships resulting in internships, equipment investments, and expanded opportunities for students, many of whom now work for employers such as Rivian, Crown, and Caterpillar. Andrew’s passion for innovation, willingness to share best practices, and ability to unite education and industry have made a lasting impact far beyond his campus. He truly embodies the mission and values of SACA and is richly deserving of recognition as the inaugural National Champion of the Year.”
About the Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA)
The Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to developing and promoting industry-driven certifications for advanced manufacturing and Industry 4.0. Developed in collaboration with education and industry, SACA certifications validate the technical competencies required in modern, connected manufacturing environments and provide a clear pathway for students and workers to build and demonstrate in-demand skills.
