2008 Woodie Awards
Diesel Professor Recognized for Feats
Frank Ram
Issue date: 1/19/05 Section: Life
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Bill Cornett, diesel technology instructor at Citrus College, received several awards including one from The National Hot Rod Association for 15 years of continuous service with youth in their educational division.
Cornett says the California Lottery award is really special to him. "That award means a lot to me," Cornett said. "It was a great experience, and I'm honored that I was one of the few chosen."
The Parameters to win the award include helping students beyond regular school hours, helping students raise test scores, and being a good role model for other teachers.
Cornett did not always want to be a teacher. He worked as a power plant operations engineer for Southern Pacific Railroad from 1973 to 1986. Cornett also served in the Marine Corps Reserves for 38 years.
Cornett's first experience teaching in public schools was at Cypress College in 1973. "The school lost intrest in the program, and I left," Cornett said.
Cornett also taught at CSU Long beach, Cerritos College, Riverside College, College of the Desert and Mountain College before arriving at Citrus in 1992.
"When your in the classroom with Mr. Cornett, you can really tell he loves what he does," Joel Gamez, 23, automotive technology/computer science major said. "Not only is he an outstanding instructor, but he is a really good guy. Citrus is lucky to have him around."
Cornett said he loves the diesel technology program at Citrus. One of his biggest accomplishments is working in the College for Kids program.
The College for Kids Program helps kids prepare for the diesel technology program and for College.
"Automotive technology programs are virtually gone from middle schools and high schools, so programs like this are important," Cornett said. "College for Kids not only helps expose the kids to cars and engines, but it also helps the community become better acquainted with the diesel technology program at Citrus."
"I've known Bill for three years, and he is an excellent instructor," Cheryl Hall, administrative secretary for vocational education said. "He takes a definite interest in his students and deserves the awards he has received."
Cornett wishes all his students well and hopes they will move on and be successful.
"I hope that my students take the knowlage that I've taught them and move on to great things," Cornett said. "Hopefully they'll remember that it was Cornett that taught it to them," Cornett said jokingly.