BPA national champion pursues a career in education

BPA national champion pursues a career in education

In 2022, Sandpoint High School graduate Colton Moore embarked on an unexpected journey that would reshape his future. As the editor of his yearbook, he learned how to use industry-standard software like the Adobe Creative Suite. Although he had dabbled in photography and graphic design, business education wasn’t initially on his radar. That changed when his school’s CTE teacher and Business Professionals of America (BPA) advisor, Melinda Nieman, encouraged him to join BPA and compete in the statewide Desktop Publishing competition during his senior year.

“As a student, I was always striving for the best and focused on achieving the highest grades, whether in AP classes or yearbook. I think that mindset made me hesitant to join BPA,” said Moore. “I worried I might not meet my own high standards in the competitive setting.” 

Despite his initial reservations, Moore quickly discovered that he had nothing to fear. That year, he took first place in the Desktop Publishing competition at the BPA National Leadership Conference (NLC) in Dallas. His experience at the state and national levels opened his eyes to the potential for learning and connecting with like-minded individuals.

“I realized it was about engaging with others, learning together, and sharing experiences, not just competing,” said Moore. 

Sandpoint High School graduate Colton Moore

This realization was pivotal in changing his trajectory. Initially aiming to become a creative director in the business world, Moore shifted his focus to pursuing a degree in business teacher education after witnessing the value of collaboration and mentorship.

Following graduation, Moore began his academic journey at North Idaho College (NIC), where he engaged deeply with the campus community as a college ambassador. He appreciated the small class sizes and interactive learning environment, realizing through this experience the unique strengths of community colleges. After earning his associate degree, Moore transferred to the University of Idaho, where he is now a junior completing a bachelor’s degree in business and marketing education. He currently serves as the president of the University of Idaho’s postsecondary BPA chapter and plays an active role in organizing the region’s high school BPA event held on campus.

Students need these skills to succeed in both personal relationships and professional settings, particularly for those aspiring to leadership roles in business and marketing.

Colton Moore,
business and marketing education major, University of Idaho

In addition to his academic pursuits, Moore is already making strides in his professional journey by securing a paid internship with CharacterStrong, a Tacoma-based company that develops character education content for schools. 

“In CTE, soft skills, such as conflict resolution and responsibility, are as important as technical skills,” said Moore. “Students need these skills to succeed in both personal relationships and professional settings, particularly for those aspiring to leadership roles in business and marketing.”

Moore credits several mentors for shaping his educational journey. Although he didn’t take a formal class with Nieman, her passion for teaching and encouragement sparked his interest in the field. 

“Kevin Hutchins, my yearbook advisor for two years, was also a mentor throughout high school,” said Moore. “We had many great discussions about business, marketing and education, which inspired me to become a business teacher.” 

Moore hopes to inspire future students in the same way his mentors inspired him. 

“I can’t wait to bring these experiences and teaching methods into my classroom,” said Moore.