Amador has been teaching in the agriculture mechanics program at MJC since 2004, and currently teaches several courses in the program including Introduction to Mechanical Technology, Agriculture Welding, Mechanical Systems Design and Evaluation, Farm Construction and Materials, Hydraulics/Pneumatics, Residential and Farmstead Electrical Wiring and Principles. Originally from Modesto, he graduated from Grace Davis High School in 1980 and earned his Associate of Science degree in Poultry Science from MJC. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanized Agriculture from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, he returned to the Modesto area and worked in the agriculture industry for 10 years. Amador then returned to Cal Poly in 1997 to earn a Master's degree in Agriculture and obtain a California teaching credential, and he taught in two high schools prior to coming to MJC. He is active in the California Agriculture Teachers Association and is presently the advisor for the statewide student leadership organization, California Agriculture Leaders (CAL).
MJC first won the Outstanding Community College Agriculture Program in the Post Secondary - Large School Division, and then subsequently won the overall best in the state award. Mark Anglin, dean of Agriculture, Environmental Science and Technical Education, faculty members Steve Amador, Don Borges, Bill Hobby, John Mendes, Mike Morales, and Dale Pollard, and Karen Walters Dunlap, vice president of instruction were on hand to receive the awards on behalf of the college. The MJC agriculture program was last recognized with this prestigious award in 2002.
Agriculture programs being considered for this award are evaluated on the accomplishments of its students, the department's involvement in section, region, state and/or national vocational-agriculture teacher association activities, contributions of staff towards the program and students, and the utilization of computer technology and agriculture-science curriculum in the program.
Applicants are also rated on 14 standards including relevant instruction; qualified instructors; professional development; facilities, supplies and equipment; cooperative work experience education, program management, use of an industry advisory committees; faculty advising; extended employment to cover year-round programs; leadership/student organizations; career exploration, communications with other agricultural and natural resources programs; placement of students in employment or school enrollment, and response to the community/industry needs and desires for continuing education.
