Montana DECA’s State Director, John Stiles, Honored with Outstanding Service Award

• McKenna Gregg
• April 22 2025

Helena, MT – The Montana Office of Public Instruction is proud to announce that John Stiles, State Director of Montana DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) Inc., has been named a recipient of DECA Inc.’s Outstanding Service Award — one of the organization’s highest national honors.

Presented annually at the DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC), the Outstanding Service Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and impact in advancing DECA’s mission of preparing emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management.

Stiles began his service with DECA Inc. in 2009 as a Student Executive Officer and assumed the role of State Director in July 2015. He is currently completing his seventh year on the DECA Inc. Board of Directors, where he holds the distinction of being both the youngest director and the first representative from the State of Montana to serve in that capacity.

Under Stiles’ leadership, Montana DECA has experienced significant growth, including record-breaking membership, innovative programming, and expanded opportunities for students across the state to develop critical 21st-century skills. His unwavering commitment to student success, educator support, and the advancement of career and technical education has left a lasting impact on Montana DECA and the national organization as a whole.

In support of this recognition, prominent leaders from across Montana submitted letters to the nominating committee endorsing Stiles' nomination:

Governor Greg Gianforte wrote: “John has served as Montana DECA’s State Director for a decade, overseeing growth in membership, corporate partnerships, and student outcomes. As governor, I have worked with John and other career and technical student organization (CTSO) leaders to elevate CTE in Montana and provide greater funding for work-based learning opportunities. I know that without dedicated student and adult leaders like John, the opportunities made available by DECA and other CTSOs would not be as strong.”

Senator Steve Daines writes: “Mr. Stiles has been a steady advocate for career and technical education that has benefited numerous Montana students and prepared them for successful careers. Mr. Stiles is a testament to the hardworking spirit and dedication to service that DECA instills in thousands of students across the globe.”

Superintendent Susie Hedalen wrote: “Director Stiles has been a steadfast advocate for Career and Technical Education, championing its growth from the local level to the national stage. His leadership over the years has strengthened student opportunities, expanded funding, and increased the impact of Montana’s CTSOs. His dedication to service and education has helped countless Montana students prepare for successful careers, embodying the hardworking spirit that defines our state.”

Rob Watson, Executive Director of School Administrators of Montana, wrote: “With a decade of service as Montana’s State Director, John’s tenure has been marked by sustainable growth and development in Montana DECA. He has successfully led efforts to expand membership, deepen corporate engagement, and increase the impact DECA has on students statewide. Under John’s guidance, Montana DECA has thrived as a nurturing ground for young leaders, inspiring countless students to pursue careers in business and entrepreneurial endeavors.”

Under Stiles’ leadership, Montana DECA has experienced unprecedented growth in student membership, expanded competitive event opportunities, and deepened its partnerships with business and industry. His efforts have not only shaped the direction of the organization, but have inspired students, advisors, and volunteers to pursue excellence.

Stiles will receive the award during DECA’s ICDC, held in Orlando, FL, April 26-29, 2025, in front of 23,000 student leaders, educators, and business professionals from around the world.

“I’m truly honored and humbled to receive this award,” said Stiles. “It reflects the hard work and commitment of the entire Montana DECA family — from our amazing students to our dedicated educators and partners. Together, we are building opportunities that will empower the next generation of leaders.”

For more information about Montana DECA, visit www.mtdeca.org

Questions? Contact: 

McKenna Gregg, Communications Director

The OPI is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation, require an alternate format, or have questions concerning accessibility, contact the OPI ADA Coordinator, 406-444-3161, opiada@mt.gov, Relay Service: 711.