Randy McWilson considers it a blessing to interface with the next generation and share his passion for digital media. Teaching goes much deeper than lecturing from behind a podium, he says -- it's about sharing life lessons, character and interpersonal relationships.

"Each day I am potentially molding the future career choices of those in my care, and I take that charge seriously," says McWilson, a digital media instructor at the Cape Girardeau Career and Technology Center. "The rewards of this profession are innumerable and intensely satisfying. The scene of a student overcoming an obstacle, or connecting on a complex concept, or finishing a project professionally, is a common occurrence that is anything but common."

McWilson takes great pride in the success of his students -- many of them have even received gold medals and other awards at national-level competitions. On a personal level, McWilson continues to hone his own skills and knowledge by staying on top of the projects and research in his career field. He also helped found the Cape Area Media Producers Association and is an avid fossil collector, history buff and writer.

"God has given me an unnatural dose of curiosity about everything," he says. "I care not whether it is metallurgy or history, technology or artistry, I am attracted to people of passion. I am drawn to those who are experts in their craft or field, and I find my own personal zeal is enhanced by interfacing with them."

--Robyn Gautschy