Paris, Tenn.–In rural Tennessee, the Ayers Foundation is shining a spotlight on those who are not only achieving professional success but also investing deeply in their communities. The first person to carry that torch is Trevor Teague, who has been named the inaugural recipient of the Jim Ayers Torchbearer Award. Teague is a member of the LI Smith Engineering Firm in Paris.
The award honors an alumnus whose dedication and service exemplify the Foundation’s mission of “transforming rural communities one student at a time.” Trevor’s recognition shines a light not only on his personal and professional accomplishments, but also on the difference he is making here in rural Tennessee.
A Riverside High School graduate and valedictorian, he went on to earn a degree in engineering from the University of Tennessee at Martin. While many young professionals look toward urban areas for opportunities after graduation, Trevor made the intentional decision to return to Decatur County. He and his wife, Karlee, restored a home on his family’s farm, invested themselves in local service, and committed to building a future in the community that raised them.
“Trevor and Karlee are building a life centered around family, service, and community involvement, values that reflect the spirit of the Ayers Foundation Trust and our Come Home Tennessee initiative,” said Burton Ayers, chief executive officer of the Trust. “Not only is Trevor already demonstrating great success as a professional engineer, but he is a testament to how we hope our alumni will contribute to their communities.”
LI Smith President Patrick Smith said, “At L.I. Smith & Associates (LIS), we have had the privilege of seeing Trevor’s talents grow firsthand. He joined the firm at a young age and has already achieved milestones few accomplish so early in their careers. He holds both a Professional Surveyor License and a Professional Engineer License, making him one of the youngest in Tennessee to earn dual licensure. In his role at LIS, Trevor specializes in stormwater and subdivision design, helping create infrastructure that directly improves safety, supports economic growth, and prepares communities for the future.
“Mr. Ayers was a visionary who understood that no one cared more about a city or county than the people who grew up there. Tevor is passionate about Parsons and Decatur County. He followed Mr. Ayers’ vision and established an office in the Ayers’ Entrepreneural Center that allowed him work for LIS and contribute to his community and family.”
Beyond his technical work, Trevor has become a trusted mentor for engineers in training at LIS. He takes time to share his knowledge and guide others through the transition from classroom to practice. His leadership has created an environment where new professionals feel supported and challenged, and where the focus is not only on projects completed but also on people developed.
As part of the award, Trevor will receive a $5,000 grant to support a community project of his choosing. Staying true to his belief in education and opportunity, he has directed those funds to help stock community college food pantries for students in need. This choice reflects the same combination of compassion and practicality that defines his professional work: meeting immediate needs while building long-term strength.