Diman Regional inducts 9 into school’s Hall of Fame; here are their names and bios

On Sunday, Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School celebrated graduates, educators, and community members whose work reflects the spirit of vocational education, excellence, service, and pride in one’s craft.

“This year’s Hall of Fame inductees embody those values through decades of dedication across trades, education, public service, and leadership. Their stories remind us that the skills learned at Diman are more than technical, they’re the foundation for a life built on integrity and purpose.”

Here are bios on the 9 new inductees provided by Diman Regional.

Edward “Ed” Majewski 

For more than 40 years, Ed Majewski has honored the dignity of the skilled trades. A master plumber, respected inspector, and dedicated community leader, Ed’s career reflects humility, craftsmanship, and service.

After graduating from Diman, he founded Ed Majewski Plumbing & Heating in 1986, building a business known for its integrity and skill. His leadership extended into public service—as Director of Facilities for the Fall River Housing Authority and Commissioner of the Swansea Housing Authority—where he has overseen critical housing projects and infrastructure improvements.

A lifelong advocate for vocational education, Ed serves on advisory boards at Diman and Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech, helping shape the next generation of tradespeople. Above all, he’s a family man—devoted husband, father of four, and proud grandfather—whose life and career embody hard work and gratitude.

Rick Manuels, Jr. 

From his start in Diman’s Auto Collision program to founding Spindle City Auto Glass in 1999, Rick Manuels, Jr. has built a business—and a legacy—rooted in craftsmanship and community.

His company employs 12 Diman graduates and co-op students, a testament to his belief in giving back to the program that gave him his start. In 2024, he was appointed to the Diman School Committee and named a recipient of the Diman Image Award and APEX Small Business Excellence Award from One SouthCoast Chamber.

Through mentorship, leadership, and deep community involvement, Rick continues to uplift students, entrepreneurs, and the broader SouthCoast region.

Marta Montleon

During her seven years as Superintendent-Director of the Greater Fall River Vocational School District, Mrs. Marta Montleon championed excellence in education with compassion and vision.

Her career spans decades in leadership roles across Massachusetts—guiding districts, shaping curriculum, and mentoring administrators. A lifelong learner herself, she holds multiple advanced degrees and has taught at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Even in retirement, Mrs. Montleon remains deeply involved in community service and professional associations. Her leadership helped strengthen Diman’s academic and vocational foundation for generations to come.

Michael A. Oliveira

Diman Class of 1975 graduate Michael Oliveira revolutionized the school’s Machine Tool Technology program. Returning to teach in 1982, he introduced Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) technology—launching Diman into a new era of modern manufacturing education.

As department head and longtime SkillsUSA advisor, he inspired hundreds of students to compete and succeed on state and national stages, earning more than ten national medals.

Known for his quiet leadership and deep humility, Mr. Oliveira’s four decades of service transformed the way Diman prepares students for high-tech industries.

Robert Oliveira

For nearly 40 years, math teacher Robert Oliveira helped Diman students find confidence and success in the classroom and beyond. His steady patience and innovative teaching methods turned math from a source of anxiety into a source of pride for countless students.

Outside the classroom, he coached golf and baseball, supported athletics, and embodied the spirit of teamwork that defines Diman. His legacy lives on through the students and colleagues he inspired with humor, kindness, and dedication.

Barbara Backus Pitera

Since 1984, Mrs. Barbara Pitera has shaped the future of healthcare education at Diman. Starting as an LPN instructor and rising to Director of the School of Practical Nursing, she expanded the program to include part-time, evening, and satellite options—making nursing education more accessible for working adults and non-traditional students.

Her visionary leadership established pathways to higher education and strengthened Diman’s reputation for excellence in nursing preparation.

Even after retiring, she continues to mentor faculty and students, embodying the compassion and professionalism that define the nursing field she so dearly loves.

Officer James Riley

After nearly 40 years with the Fall River Police Department, Officer James Riley became a beloved fixture at Diman as the school’s first full-time School Resource Officer.

For 19 years, he built trust, ensured safety, and became a daily source of encouragement for students and staff alike. Even after retiring, he returned as a substitute teacher—turning the library into a welcoming hub for connection and conversation.

Officer Riley’s warmth, humor, and mentorship continue to make Diman a better place.

David Saber

A 1979 Auto Body graduate, David Saber turned his technical training into a lifelong enterprise—founding Saber Auto Body and later expanding into towing, car sales, and full-service automotive operations.

His businesses are known not only for excellence but for community engagement—supporting local programs, charities, and the Diman Bengal Education Foundation.

Mr. Saber exemplifies what it means to turn passion into purpose, and skill into lifelong service.

Roger A. St. Martin, Jr. 

From Diman’s Carpentry program to Fire Chief of the Fall River Fire Department, Roger St. Martin’s journey is one of discipline, leadership, and service.

With more than 38 years in fire service and 23 years in the U.S. Navy Seabees, he has demonstrated courage and commitment in every role—securing more than $23 million in grants to strengthen his department and community.

Today, as an instructor at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, he continues to train and inspire the next generation of first responders.