2024-2025 Educator of the Year Winner – Shannon Nicklaus

The student chapter members at Pittsburg State University proudly nominated Shannon Nicklaus for the MCAA 2024-2025 Educator of the Year based on his mentoring, mechanical industry knowledge, participation in chapter activities, and involvement in the creation of student-focused networking opportunities with local mechanical contractors through the MCA of Kansas City. In addition to a trophy, he received a $5,000 award during the MCAA25 Awards of Excellence Breakfast on Wednesday, March 5^th.

The $5,000 award was underwritten by the John R. Gentille Foundation (JRGF). MCAA thanks JRGF for their generous support of this award and the student chapter program as a whole.

ABOUT THE WINNER

“Shannon consistently goes above and beyond the typical duties of a faculty advisor by actively advocating for the betterment of students both within and beyond the chapter.”

“Shannon is always fighting to provide more resources and opportunities for students. His dedication is clear in the way he continuously pushes for improvements that benefit not only the chapter, but the entire student body.”

“Shannon transforms more than just his students’ career opportunities; he also creates an environment, both in the classroom and within our student chapter, where we develop friendships, confidence in the professionals we are becoming, and the life skills to successfully navigate adulthood. This makes him not just an instructor, but a trusted mentor during our pivotal college years.”

– Aidan Wolownik – Pittsburg State University Student Chapter President

Recruiting

Shannon takes great pride in the members of the MCA Student Chapter at Pittsburg State University and works tirelessly to continuously bring top students into the organization. Shannon has transformed chapter meetings by creating an environment where students can gain information from industry professionals, meet new people and learn about the mechanical industry. Additionally, Shannon ensures the chapter has the best of opportunities, such as attending the GreatFutures Forum, MCAA Convention, WiMI Conference plus all of the events put on by MCA KC. These events allow chapter members to network with contractors, professors, and students locally and from across the country. These experiences not only help chapter members learn more about the mechanical industry, but he also makes sure that when the group travels to a new city that they do something fun. The stories and pictures from past events help to recruit new members and help the chapter build a bond.

“Shannon is a leader at helping our chapter develop relationships and lifelong friendships within our student chapter. Who doesn’t want to be a part of something that great?”

Employment Opportunities

Shannon plays a crucial role in connecting student chapter members with MCAA contractors by organizing events that foster direct engagement. Student chapter meetings often feature local contractors, which builds meaningful industry relationships. Rather than simply providing contacts, Shannon actively facilitates relationships, helping students secure internships, job offers and mentorships in the mechanical industry.

Through Shannon’s efforts and connections this past year, he has successfully assisted over ten students with getting internships in mechanical, leading to six full-time job offers. He goes above and beyond to help students find opportunities by personally reaching out to companies through his strong relationships within the mechanical contracting industry. Companies trust his judgment and often open new positions, based on his recommendations, knowing that the students he advocates for are highly capable and will be well-prepared. 

His dedication is a key factor in expanding employment opportunities for students in the mechanical contracting industry at Pittsburg State University.

Leadership

Shannon’s leadership style with the Pittsburg State student chapter is marked by a collaborative and empowering approach. He consistently creates an environment where students feel valued and encouraged to take initiative, allowing students to contribute to the chapter’s success.

“Shannon ultimately leads by example. He is always approachable and willing to offer guidance, but also trusts the chapter’s officers to make decisions and manage chapter operations. His emphasis on teamwork and open communication fosters a strong sense of responsibility among members.”

Congratulations to Pittsburg State’s Shannon Nicklaus on being awarded the 2024-2025 Educator of the Year!