Learn to build technology that delights, improves, and empowers people

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”

-Pablo Picasso, Painter

“We don't grow into creativity, we grow out of it. Or rather, we get educated out of it."

-Sir Ken Robinson, Author

Our factory-style education system born out of the Industrial Revolution crushes creativity, frowns upon failure, and punishes risk-taking.

Who here has experienced humiliation in a classroom because you shared a wrong answer? Mistakes have become terrifying and paralyzing experiences to be avoided at all costs.

This environment stifles innovation and human potential.

We need to revitalize and re-imagine education. And it starts with prioritizing creativity.

I teach students to explore nature using computer programming as a medium for scientific discovery and creative self-expression.

My classroom is best described as science laboratory meets art studio. A safe space where students learn the empowering synergy of STEM and the Arts.

Creative Process, Computational Thinking, and Engineering Design is reflected upon and nutured.

My dad taught me three very important life lessons:

1) Ford trucks are awesome.
2) Family over self.
3) Live a life of service to others.

So perhaps unsurprisingly, I am in my 16th year as a teacher, with a little girl who has me wrapped around her little finger, and doing it all in a bright blue Ford SUV.

Outside the classroom you’ll find me at coffee shops writing code, lifting heavy objects at the gym, or in the garden growing citrus in containers.

My favorite foods are spicy ahi sushi, Chipotle burritos, and grape gummies from Japan.

Sussy Circle - An easy to pick up, hard to put down game of skill. Put your hand/eye coordination to the test with endlessly more challenging levels. Minimalist design for quick game play.

Dot Match Duel - Fast finger, dot matching fun! Duel your friends in real-time or perfect your solo pattern-matching prowess to dominate the Game Center leader boards.

I have taught 1,000+ college students in 15 years at 3 community colleges and 2 universities which has leveled up my wisdom stat. Here is my best advice for getting the most out of your college experience:

1. Search for unique courses. Wrestle with timeless philosophical issues. Learn to draw. Drive a tractor. Financial aid is highest during your first undergraduate degree so take the opportunity to see what’s out there.

2. Prioritize skill acquisition over grades. Employers care about what you can do, not that you memorized the 10 enzymes of glycolysis long enough to pass an exam.

3. Do summer internships or research. Gain the edge in a fiercely competitive job search.

4. Get to know your favorite professors. Hang around after class. Study in the building. Build a personal brand reputation for consistency and enthusiasm. That is the path to top letters of recommendation and collab opportunities

5. Do not be married to your current passion. It can change. You change. You cannot connect the dots looking forward. Trust that you are making the best decision with the knowledge you currently have and don’t be afraid to pivot to new adventures.

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