Congratulations to LCTI school counselor Cory Schnaufer on winning a SkillsUSA Council award!

U. SAUCON TWP. — When school counselor Cory Schnaufer made the long drive to Altoona in support of a SkillsUSA state officer candidate last year, his students were front of mind, SkillsUSA Council Executive Director Andy Hammer said. 

Sadly, the candidate fell short, but Schnaufer, a Lehigh Career & Technical Institute SkillsUSA chapter advisor, returned to the Lehigh Valley with  insight that could help the next local student who seeks state office.

“He’s dedicated,” Hammer said. “Even though some of the advisor work is challenging, Cory is always student-focused. “He understands what we need to do to make our programs effective for students.”

That’s why Schnaufer is the 2026 SkillsUSA Council Luke Cunningham Torch of Knowledge Award winner, Hammers said. The honor is presented annually to a chapter advisor who goes above and beyond in their efforts to help students build solid technical foundations and professional skills.

“He’s helping to build a better future for these kids,” Hammer said of Schnaufer.

Schnaufer was presented with the award on Wednesday morning at the SkillsUSA Council Annual Meeting & Awards Breakfast. Fittingly, he advises several LCTI students who helped organize and emcee the event, which was held at The Centennial Catering & Conference Center.

Congratulations on your big win, Mr. Schnaufer! This is how we achieve! #WeAchieve