HICKORY, N.C. — An automotive teacher at Hickory High School is being recognized with a national award that will bring $50,000 to the school’s automotive program.
Terry Drum was named one of 25 teachers nationwide to receive a Harbor Freight Tools for Schools award.
He was presented with a $75,000 check, with $50,000 going to the school’s automotive program and the remaining $25,000 going to Drum.
Drum has taught at Hickory High since 2019. During the award presentation, he became emotional while thanking his students, colleagues, and supporters.
“I just thank you all for the support,” Drum said. “Everybody here has told me I’m doing great, but most of the time I feel like I’m failing. But I’ve got great students here who have shown their success.”
The award was created by Harbor Freight founder Eric Smidt to support skilled-trades education in public high schools.
Drum said the recognition is a testament to the success of his students and the support of the Hickory High community.
©2026 Cox Media Group
/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/cmg/LH3JSJEF3VBLRJLJQESEAG34AM.png)
