Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology instructor Susie Mauldin received the national General Motors Automotive Service Education Program Instructor of Merit Award for her unwavering dedication to preparing students for their future careers through mathematics.

GM ASEP instructor David Penrod presented the Merit Award to Mauldin during the School of Transportation and Heavy Equipment Community Conversation, held on October 22 in the Health and Environmental Technologies building’s Truck Technician classroom.

“I poll my students, asking, ‘Who here on campus would you like to nominate as Outstanding Instructor of Merit for Academics?’ Two years in a row, it has been Mrs. Mauldin,” Penrod said.

Mauldin became a candidate for the national award by first winning the south-central regional GM ASEP Instructor of Merit Award.

Mauldin has taught at OSUIT for about 14 years, educating students from a wide range of programs, including High Voltage, Natural Gas Compression, Pipeline Integrity, GM ASEP, Caterpillar, Komatsu, Culinary Arts and Graphic Design. She currently teaches Math for Critical Thinking and Computer Literacy, helping technical students develop reasoning abilities and practical decision-making skills that support long-term success in the workplace and beyond.

OSUIT Provost Dr. Richie Roberts attended the award presentation and commended Mauldin on her achievement as well as her consummate excellence as an educator.

“We greatly appreciate all the extra time and effort that you spend investing in students and faculty, being able to work across the different schools we have here. That's a rare talent. When we hire people, we encourage them to do that, but you've been exemplary in what you do for all the schools here,” Roberts said.

Budgeting and finances are key parts of Mauldin’s math for critical thinking curriculum. She also focuses on alleviating her students’ fear of math.

“Many students enter my classroom with a fear of mathematics, particularly concepts involving fractions, ratios and percentages that are used across every industry,” she said. “I strive to help students understand those foundational concepts while building their confidence and helping to develop a stronger mathematical mindset.”

She said many students come to her certain that they are not good at math.

“I work hard to reassure them that success comes through effort and guidance, emphasizing that mathematical skills have practical value in both personal and professional settings. From managing finances and making investments to solving workplace problems, I believe mathematics plays a role in virtually every career path,” Mauldin said.

Mauldin said mathematics is ultimately about critical thinking.

“I encourage students to break problems into manageable steps, identify key information and apply logical reasoning to find solutions,” she said.

Mauldin has accumulated many accolades throughout her career, including the Distinguished Teaching Award as well as multiple Outstanding Faculty nominations. The Instructor of Merit Award, however, carries very special meaning for her.

“This award will forever be one of my most cherished because the students nominated me for it,” Mauldin said. “Knowing they took the time to nominate me, and I was selected for the award, is incredibly meaningful and humbling.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What award did Susie Mauldin receive?

OSU Institute of Technology instructor Susie Mauldin received the 2026 national General Motors Automotive Service Education Program (GM ASEP) Instructor of Merit Award. She qualified for national consideration by first winning the south-central regional award.

How was Susie Mauldin nominated for the award?

GM ASEP instructor David Penrod asked his students which campus educator they wanted to nominate for the academic Instructor of Merit honor. Students selected Susie Mauldin two years in a row.

What does Susie Mauldin teach at OSUIT?

Susie Mauldin currently teaches Math for Critical Thinking and Computer Literacy. During nearly 14 years at OSUIT, she has taught students from programs ranging from automotive and heavy equipment to culinary arts and graphic design.

How does Mauldin help students prepare for their careers?

Susie Mauldin helps students understand fractions, ratios and percentages while building confidence in their mathematical abilities. Her instruction emphasizes practical applications, including budgeting, financial decisions and solving workplace problems through logical reasoning.

When was Mauldin presented with the national award?

David Penrod presented Susie Mauldin with the national award on Oct. 22, 2026, during OSUIT’s School of Transportation and Heavy Equipment Community Conversation. The presentation took place in the Truck Technician classroom in the Health and Environmental Technologies building.