Testimonials

 Business Host Video Testimonial - CareerWise

CareerWise Colorado works every day to create opportunities for students and employers through modern youth apprenticeship. We envision a world in which work-based learning such as apprenticeship is integrated into our K12- and higher-education systems so that the economy is fueled by practical skills and any student can find a path to economic prosperity.

Externship Description: Teachers gained a comprehensive understanding of registered apprenticeships, participated in onsite company tours, and learned about career pathways in this growing sector. The program specifically focused on the registered apprenticeships offered by CareerWise Colorado in advanced manufacturing, and teachers toured the following companies CoorsTek, Emerson, and PTA Plastics. Visit CareerWise's website 

CoorsTek - Production of advanced ceramics for the aerospace, automotive, energy and medical industries. Visit CoorsTek's website

Emerson - Advanced flow measurement instrumentation and diagnostics; innovation center. Visit Emerson's website

PTA Plastics - Custom plastic injection molding for the medical, defense and safety/security industries. Visit PTA Plastics' website

Teacher Testimonials - CareerWise

The externship provided me with a robust experience to learn about the current state of the three advanced manufacturing facilities, their company forecasting and what types of students might be good candidates for these careers. It was also great to see a variety of roles in these large companies and learn about their corporate life.” –  Miranda Ziegler, Jeffco WBL TOSA

“The externship was welcoming, inspiring, interesting, and valid. We need to be exploring the post-secondary world regularly as teachers!  I am a CTE teacher and so this is what I try to do everyday. I learned that manufacturing is a lot more than just one person and a machine building a part. It’s a whole team. From HR to business to IT to the shop floor—this was emphasized strongly—and important to understand. There are jobs for everyone and every career pathway.” – Steve Errickson, Pine Creek HS

“I now feel equipped to explain what actually happens in advanced manufacturing facilities, the skills employers are seeking, and the kinds of projects students might be involved in during an apprenticeship. I plan to share real-world examples, use video clips or guest speakers when possible, and create lessons that highlight the diversity of career paths available within this growing industry.” – Alyson Koerner, Dakota Ridge HS

“The Advanced Manufacturing externship provided me with valuable insight into the necessary job skills that our students need to develop to join the workforce right out of high school.  It also illuminated many job opportunities that I was unaware of, and clarified roles that I had some preconceived notions around.  The externship outlined pathways for students to gain on-the-job training that can lead to robust careers in many fields that have almost guaranteed employment.” – Meghan Moody, Manhattan MS 

Teacher Testimonials - Colorado Air and Space Port (CASP)

Colorado Air and Space Port (CASP) serves as America’s hub for commercial space transportation, research, and development. 

Externship Description:  Five teachers toured the CASP with the Deputy Director. Teachers learned about the operations of the Spaceport and its importance to the aerospace industry in Colorado. Teachers also toured Reaction Engines, a rocket engine technology company with a test site at the SpacePort. The Spaceport serves as a hub for commercial space transportation and research.Visit Colorado Air and Space Port's Website

“I went to the Colorado Air and Space Port for a short tour. We started with an informational meeting about the new overview. We also learned about educational and industry partners. We then toured some of the facilities including the air traffic control tower. It was so interesting to learn about different career options and paths to get there. I will definitely utilize the events discussed and skills needed to help prepare my students and give them a head start.” – Melissa Williford, Northglenn High School

“With middle school students I'm always looking for ways to connect work opportunities later in life to what they do in the Science Classroom.  This provided many ways to talk to the students about careers in a location like this.  Really it functions like a small city and needs so many varied skills and interests.  Made me think about a field trip with some job shadowing, not sure if I can make it happen, but certainly offer information to the students.”  – David Hodel, Denver Center for International Studies Middle School

Teacher Testimonials  - Colorado Space and Business Roundtable

The Colorado Space and Business Roundtable (CSBR) brings together aerospace stakeholders from industry, government, and academia for roundtable discussions.  Our organization is united by a common desire to advance the growth of Colorado aerospace. Together we embody the voice of Colorado aerospace from startups to government and academic stakeholders….. we strive to be a collective voice for the aerospace industry.

Externship Description: CSBR included two teacher externs in its summer program for 120 students from Colorado and Alabama. Teachers facilitated one virtual week with more than 20 aerospace-focused businesses and professional associations and one in-person week for the Colorado students in June. Through this experience, teachers gained first-hand exposure and insights into aerospace careers in Colorado, while also building valuable relationships with community leaders and elected officials who are aerospace champions.  Learn more about Colorado Space Business Roundtable

“The teacher externship provided by the Colorado Space Business Roundtable (CSBR) was exceptional.  Not only did I get to learn from industry leaders Colorado, but was able to connect with leaders working in Alabama.  During a solid week of virtual learning, the information and topics were extremely interesting and offered a rare opportunity to hear directly from today's industry professionals.  Together with a cohort of exceptional students, we explored the space debris problem.  

In the second week of the externship we traveled around Colorado, visiting both space businesses and education institutions to get a better  sense of the industry and the education route to become a professional.  Throughout the experience, I was blown away by the intelligence of the folks and felt their passion.  

As an educator I tried to see the experience through the lens of a student and will carry forth my own growth as an educator in the form of advice and mentorship.  Space is a competitive industry, and with a little help today's students will become tomorrow's professionals.” – Daniel Langevin, Aurora Central High School

“I had a great time building relationships with the students and industry leaders. I feel I was able to take away a great deal of knowledge from this experience. I definitely now have the tools to steer interested students towards resources in the aerospace industry. Thank you!” – Josh Vanterpool, Douglas County Legacy Campus

"As an educator in rural Weld County, Colorado I was unaware that the “universe of aerospace” was at our back door. My experience as a CDL teacher extern with CSBR not only strengthened and furthered my knowledge in the sciences, but provided me an insight to the overall intricacies of the aerospace industry." - Katherine Schifter, Milliken Middle School/Weld County RE5J

"It was great to meet the entire team and feel all the support. I had no idea of all of the legislation and focus that our state government has on improving education. I am very excited to implement what I have learned and to continue my relationship with this amazing team!" - Shane Stalter, Monarch High School/Boulder Valley School District

Teacher Testimonial - Sierra Space & iQ3Connect

Sierra Space is a leading commercial space company at the forefront of innovation and the commercialization of space in the Orbital Age®, building an end-to-end business and technology platform in space to benefit life on Earth. With more than 30 years and 500 missions of space flight heritage, the company is reinventing both space transportation with Dream Chaser®, the world’s only commercial spaceplane, and the future of space destinations with the company’s inflatable and expandable space station technology. Using commercial business models, the company is also delivering orbital services to commercial, DoD and national security organizations, expanding production capacity to meet the needs of constellation programs. In addition, Sierra Space builds a host of systems and subsystems across solar power, mechanics and motion control, environmental control, life support, propulsion, and thermal control, offering myriad space-as-a-service solutions for the new space economy. 

iQ3Connect provides a web-based VR/AR training and collaboration platform used by industry and higher education to create and deploy immersive learning, training, and work instruction experiences.  Learn more on iQ3Connect's website

Externship Description: One teacher participated in an externship focused on highlighting Extended (XR) and Virtual Reality (VR) as critical tools to the aerospace workforce. The teacher extern worked with the Sierra Space XRVR Engineering lead to stand up a virtual workspace that enabled device-agnostic access to vital information for the first Dream Chaser Spacecraft, Tenacity. The goal for this virtual workspace was to drive collaboration across departments, focusing on manufacturing and quality engineering, via visualization of some of the world’s most advanced CAD models.

"It was great to meet the entire team and feel all the support. I had no idea of all of the legislation and focus that our state government has on improving education. I am very excited to implement what I have learned and to continue my relationship with this amazing team!" - Shane Stalter, Monarch High School/Boulder Valley School District

Teacher Testimonial - P3 Communities

p3Communities is an Architecture firm. They develop all manner of commercial and residential projects as well as participate in community development activities, including economic development, planning and zoning, strategic planning, and community engagement.  Visit p3Communities' website

Externship Description: Teacher extern learned about multiple facets of the architectural practice, including Schematic Design and Project Development, Scope Determination, Code Compliance, Design Development, Construction Documentation and Drafting, Technical Specification Writing, Construction Observation, Community Volunteer Board Involvement, Small Business Development, and Facilitation.

“During my externship, I worked in a real-world setting in the field of architecture and community development.  Lester worked with me to develop a plan based on the skills and knowledge I wanted to develop. I was given small projects focusing on residential construction at first.  However, the bulk of my work centered on community development and problem solving.  I was given the task of developing the visitor center plaza for the Chamber of Commerce.  I applied design thinking concepts, met with stakeholders, provided ideations and prototypes, and presented a proposal.  The concepts that I applied and the guidance I received directly correlate to the design courses I teach.  In addition to skills and knowledge, my connection with Lester is a big benefit to my students.  Not only is he an advisor to my program, but he also comes to my classes and meets with my students at various times during projects.  At these times, he provides feedback and direction, as well as acting as a judge for project presentations. – Scott Smith, Canon City High School

  Business Host Video Testimonial - Encore Electric

Encore Electric is an electrical and technology solutions construction and service firm. In short, we build the power, lighting, and technology systems in large, complex, challenging commercial buildings throughout Colorado. Encore Electric's website.

Externship Description: Teachers toured Encore Electric and active construction sites, observed electrical apprenticeships, learned about the technical skills, safety protocols, and career progression in the electrical trade.  

Teacher Testimonials - Encore Electric

“Thank you for a wonderful experience. As I move into a new position as a Career Counselor, I am starting to feel more comfortable and confident that I will be able to help my students and their families better understand opportunities available in our community.  I was very impressed by the type of work, the culture, and the climate at Encore; thank you for welcoming us.” – Kacie Weikel, Dakota Ridge HS

“Thank you for the experience. I cannot tell you how amazing it was to have the core values of Encore presented at the beginning of the morning and to see them in action throughout the rest of the tour.  I have been fortunate enough to go on other job sites, but I have never seen values displayed so consistently throughout a company.  I was very impressed.”  – Christi Watts-Gebhard, Dakota Ridge HS 

“The first day was in collaboration with Encore Electric and included a visit to new employee orientation, a full office meet and greet and tour and a site visit at a large construction site.  I thought all of this day was great. It was really nice to get a glimpse of what day one looked like for a new member at Encore, to do the tour of the campus and see how many different areas of work exist in the company and to finish with the site visit that let me see the work in action. It really felt like a well-rounded overview of how Encore Electric works. I left with a lot of things I could share with students who show any interest in the electrical industry.”  – Justin Riffle, Heritage HS

"Thank you very much for giving Brad and me the opportunity to learn about Encore and the electrician trade. The orientation for new apprentices on their first day showed me how much the company invests in each apprentice, encouraging them to work hard and be their best. This experience has been enlightening, and I look forward to applying these insights to help my students prepare for successful futures." - Chun Pfahnl, Colorado Early Colleges/Colorado Charter Institute

Teacher Testimonial - African American Trade Association

One teacher participated in an externship to support students in a four-week Climate Adaptation and Resilience Academy as well as a two-week summer internship program for Denver Public Schools students interested in construction.

"The Externship taught me that the wave of future economic prosperity lies in a workforce that is well-versed in rising job markets like science, technology, engineering, and math." - LaVerne Donelson, Montbello High/Denver Public Schools

African-American Trade Association Interest Form

  Scan and Model Developed by Teacher Externs - Colorado Energy Office

The Colorado Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) helps qualified Coloradans save money, increase comfort, and better their homes and environment through proven, energy conservation solutions.

Externship Description: Two teacher externs developed a 3D training model for the Colorado Energy Office (CEO). This model enhanced the CEO's weatherization assistance program, which helps Coloradans save money by increasing efficiency and conserving energy in their homes. The training will ultimately be used by new and existing CEO employees to introduce them to the work or enhance their skills.

Colorado Energy Office Weather Assistance Program's website

Business and Teacher Testimonials - Colorado Springs Utilities

For 100 years, CSU has proudly served the Colorado Springs community with safe, reliable and competitively priced utility services. Since 1924, our focus has been on the basics - providing exceptional service while keeping costs low for our customers. Today, we continue to deliver electricity, natural gas, water and wastewater services to the Pikes Peak region while our customers still enjoy competitive prices, exceptional hometown service, responsible environmental practices and a voice in how their utility operates.

Externship Description: Externships included working with our Technical Crafts Training team developing and facilitating training for apprenticeships to working with our engineering teams on a specific design project. Teachers gained exposure to various utility-related apprenticeships (line workers, maintenance, water treatment, mechanics), highlighting the diverse opportunities within essential services. Learn more on Colorado Springs Utilities' website. 

Business Testimonials - Colorado Springs Utilities

“This was a great experience, and more teachers from more districts would benefit from getting involved.  Educating teachers on the numerous benefits and vast opportunities within apprenticeship programs will enhance their ability to effectively explain these benefits to students.”  – Matt Bleckert

“After the completion of this first go around - I think the next experience will be even better!” – Denise Whited

Teacher Testimonials - Colorado Springs Utilities

“I visited apprenticeship training and job sites, toured power plants and water treatment plants, and talked with apprentices, trainers, journeymen, and other employees.  I learned about the many types of people, expertise, and jobs it takes to run a city’s utilities.  I learned the qualifications for some of those jobs, especially apprentices.  I listened to employees of Colorado Springs Utilities describe their path to their current job. At the beginning of the year, I intend to ask my students about their plans after high school.  As I interact with students, I plan to mention these options.  I created a presentation that I will share with them.  I will also keep my ears open for presentation opportunities within my school.  In addition, when I give my students real-world scenarios, I can include examples from my experiences with Colorado Springs Utilities.” – Suzanne Smith, William J. Palmer High School

“During my externship with Colorado Springs Utilities, I toured and learned about their facilities and services to include water, power, and gas.  I think the most fascinating thing I learned during this process was how interconnected the entire utility service is and also how thoughtful CSU is about the needs of the Colorado Springs area moving forward.  Additionally, I learned that CSU has some amazing apprenticeship/employment opportunities for both college-bound and non-college-bound applicants.  I was continually impressed by the attitude, energy, and knowledge level of every CSU employee I met.  In my classroom, the main thing I will be doing is adjusting my energy project in my upper level engineering class to be more localized so students can explore the various forms of energy employed by CSU.  I will also be exploring a site visit to a CSU facility as well as highlighting the STEP Apprenticeship program through CSU for my students.  I think the major takeaway I want my students to know is that working for Colorado Springs Utilities is a tremendous opportunity and also would be a place where your work would make a major, positive difference in the community.” – Taylor Badeau, Doherty High School

  Business Host Video Testimonial - Denver Water

Denver Water is the largest drinking water utility in Colorado serving 1.5 million customers in the metro Denver area. As a public service entity, Denver Water plays a large role in discussions about water in the West as well as engaging in work to steward water as a natural resource and community necessity in the face of dramatically shifting water availability and pressure from growth. Visit Denver Water's website. 

Externship Description: Educators experienced a small selection of the collection and distribution facilities and careers that make it possible to deliver drinking water to customers. Participants went into the field with survey teams to view construction and improvement projects; toured a drinking water treatment facility and reservoir; and explored educational resources and how these may fit in the classroom.

“I'm so grateful to discover the externship program. Thank you for all your support in making our first year of involvement such a great experience.” – Ellen Olson

Teacher Testimonials - Denver Water

“This externship was very well run.  It was planned extremely well by Ellen, and we moved through the different activities seamlessly.  We learned from various groups, such as Water technicians, land surveyors and treatment plant staff, as well as experiences that could be brought into the classroom (giant CO map, build your own filter). I learned a lot about different career paths, and hope to utilize that knowledge to support senior capstone students as they look for mentors in different career pathways, and similar to the careerwise externship, I built some relationships and gained knowledge about many different fields.  I also better understand apprenticeships, and hope to support students for whom these would be good pathways.” – Steve Cutillo, Prospect Ridge Academy

“I had an amazing time at the Denver Water Teacher Externship last week! Thank you to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment and the team at Denver Water for this great experience. I learned so much about how drinking water is delivered to our homes and the many careers involved in this important work. Testing the water in the Platte River, along with the high level applied math, surveyor activities, talking about satellites, and using the surveying equipment, was really eye-opening! This experience will greatly help me as a school counselor with ICAP, and I can’t wait to share what I learned with my students!” – Ali Figurin, Broomfield Heights Middle School

Business and Teacher Testimonials - The Colorado Department of Agriculture, Division of Laboratory Services

The Colorado Department of Agriculture’s Division of Laboratory Services performs laboratory services for CDA’s internal regulatory programs and some external customers. The purpose for this unit is to conduct timely and legally defensible chemical, microbiological and instrumental analysis of samples related to animal food, animal health, pesticides, soil, fertilizer, ground and surface water, industrial hemp and marijuana. In addition, the division serves as the primary source of measurement standards for the Department and provides volume and mass calibrations for Inspection & Consumers Services (ICS) field inspectors, Department of Labor and Employment and other external customers. The Division of Laboratory Services supports consumer protection by providing valuable services and consistent, reliable results with integrity, professionalism and impartiality. The Colorado Department of Agriculture's Division of Laboratory Services' website. 

Externship Description: Externs spent time learning how laboratory science and agriculture intersect through various testing methods.

Teacher Testimonials - CO Department of Agriculture, Division of Laboratory Services

“During the externship at the Department of Agriculture Labs we were taken on a tour of the metrology lab, the microbiology lab related to animal health, and the biochemistry lab related to pesticides and animal feed. In the latter two we were able to do a hands-on activity that we could use with our students. We generally learned the backgrounds of the employees we met at each lab and the job description of what they do. I learned about the use of metrology to standardize measuring equipment across the state to ensure consumers are purchasing goods at the correct measurements. In the molecular biology lab I learned another way to teach antigens/antibodies through a hands-on activity for detecting diseases. In the biochemistry lab I learned the different ways biochemistry can be used to test animal feed, water quality, and pesticides in plants and completed a water quality testing activity. I already have done the two hands-on activities in my classroom studying blood typing and water quality, but the hands-on activities gave me another application of how to do those tests in regards to disease or comparing run-off in urban vs. agricultural settings. I found everyone to be so helpful and open to answering questions! I would like to be able to take students there or hope to set up a virtual meeting/classroom visit because students would love to see this place in real life or meet people who do the work! This helps me understand what type of science backgrounds are necessary for each of the fields, and allows me to connect recent graduates to the Dept of Agriculture for internships. We met a few interns and I think that gives me confidence to encourage our students to start early. The hands-on labs also provided me with insight for labs to offer to students that would be directly related to the career paths they offer in agriculture.”  – Cassie Hayter, Aurora Public Schools

“During the externship with the Division of Laboratory Services of the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA), I shadowed and interacted with the group performing the chemical, microbiological, and instrumental analyses on agricultural and environmental samples of diverse nature. I found out how the Division tests products such as animal food, fertilizers, pesticides, and industrial hemp to assure safety and compliance. I also learned how they help regulatory enforcement by obtaining results that are timely and legally defensible. I also learned about the mass and volume calibration process for field inspectors and other agencies.

I was taught how science is practiced in the regulatory and public-service arenas. It helped me to better appreciate laboratory procedures, quality control, and the function of science in protecting the consumer. And I learned to appreciate how cross-cutting science and technology—the next generation of chemistry, biology, environmental sciences, and data science intersect in this Division. And most of all, I learned that integrity and impartiality are critical to ensuring that you develop the sound and reliable data that is necessary to inform policy and public safety.

I will draw on such real-world experiences in the externship when designing more compelling, hands-on lessons that are reflective of what is accomplished in the CDA lab. Case to Case I will design lab activities and case studies where students can experience what it is like to test a soil or water sample, collect data, and draw conclusions as though they were a real lab technician. I will also focus on lab safety, the role of quality control, and the significance of ensuring accurate measurement — making classroom activities relevant to professional standards.

I will expose students to careers in the agricultural science, environmental testing, laboratory tech and regulatory services through classroom discussions, guest speakers and career exploration projects. And I plan to bring attention to the Division’s work to safeguard public health and the environment to help students to understand how a STEM career can be a vehicle for real change. I want to link curriculum to careers at state agencies and working in public service to expose students to science paths they may not have known existed.” – Ezequiel Villanueva-Ruiz, High Point Academy
 

Business Host Testimonial - CO Department of Agriculture, Division of Laboratory Services

“It is beneficial for our group to interact with teachers. Our division has an outreach group for middle, high school and college-age students so interacting with teachers gives us valuable feedback on what we can do in the future. I thought it was a great experience!” –  Tiffany Brigner

Business Host Video Testimonial - Creative Dining Services 

Creative Dining Services creates customized dining programs that serve over 80 businesses, colleges, and senior living communities across the United States.

 Externship Description - Externship focused on exposing teachers to apprenticeship opportunities available in the culinary and hospitality industries. Externs observe industry trends, opportunities, and work culture. They will be exposed to science in culinary arts, food chemistry, nutrition science, and food safety.   Visit Creative Dining Services' website

Teacher Testimonial - Creative Dining Services

“This externship fit perfectly with my professional and personal background. I worked in restaurants for many years, and I now teach culinary education. I was excited to meet several apprentices and see them in action. I gained real-world experience that I will share with my students who are exploring careers in the restaurant industry.” – Stephanie Boone, Palmer HS

  Teacher/Business Video Testimonial - Quantinuum

As the world’s largest integrated quantum company, Quantinuum is leading the development of the most powerful quantum computers and the most advanced quantum software solutions. With our full-stack technology and world-class scientists, we are rapidly scaling quantum computing to solve tomorrow’s biggest challenges.

Externship Description: Teachers were introduced to quantum computing, Quantinuum, and the different jobs available by participating in tours of the Broomfield facility, an overview of quantum technologies, and interactions with various parts of our business (research, etc.). The project was designed to showcase the variety of careers, people, and positions it takes to develop, operate, and deploy commercial-scale quantum computers. Teachers gained insights into QIS coursework and professional development, which they can bring back to their schools. You can learn more on Quantinuum's website. 

Teacher/Business Testimonials - Quantinuum

“During the externship, I had the valuable opportunity to engage with professionals across a range of roles within the quantum computing industry. We toured cutting-edge labs and facilities, gaining behind-the-scenes insight into how different teams—from research and development to operations—work together to support breakthroughs in quantum technology. One of the most enriching aspects was our discussions about how to translate these experiences into meaningful, real-world learning opportunities for our students.

Through the externship, I developed a foundational understanding of quantum computing—the what, how, and why behind this emerging field. I also gained a clearer picture of the wide variety of careers necessary to advance and sustain quantum technologies. Beyond physicists and programmers, careers in optics, control systems, facility management, and technical support play critical roles. Additionally, I learned which skills—like adaptability, curiosity, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary thinking—are most valued in this rapidly evolving field.

I plan to bring these insights into my classroom in several ways. One major integration will be during our Hour of Code event in December, where we’ll focus on a week-long unit exploring quantum computing and its societal impacts. This unit will help demystify the technology while sparking student curiosity about how it might shape their future.

To help students explore related career paths, I will start the school year with students applying for classroom jobs that mirror roles found in real-world businesses—including those seen during the externship. These jobs will remain relevant throughout the year as we spotlight quantum-related careers embedded within our curriculum. For example, optics engineering will be introduced during our physics unit, control systems engineering during our electrical engineering lessons, and facilities management during our agricultural engineering projects. This continuous exposure will help students see how their learning connects to the broader world of work and open their eyes to emerging possibilities in STEM fields.”  – Jessica Noffsinger, STEM Lab K-8, Adams 12 Five Star Schools

“This experience was wonderful and I've been recommending it to any teacher who will stop long enough to listen to me now that I've realized that most teachers aren't aware of externships.” – Kel Madigent, Windsor Charter Academy

  Business Host Video Testimonial - Sandia Lab's Quantum Computing, Math and Physics (QcAMP)

Sandia Lab’s QcAMP Program targets advances in the understanding and mastery of quantum systems for enabling the manipulation of information with greater sensitivity, speed, and security than is possible with classical information processing methods.

Externship Description: Fifty K-12 teachers and college instructors participated at six sites in Colorado, gaining hands-on experience and learning Quantum computing fundamentals. This program helps teachers translate their learning and experience into the classroom. Participants discovered how the intriguing principles of quantum physics are revolutionizing the world of computing at a week-long summer camp designed for STEM educators.

Teachers received a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of computing while engaging in hands-on activities that explore the often-perplexing phenomena of quantum physics. Teachers had the opportunity to apply these concepts to solve computing, sensing, and communication challenges in innovative ways. Throughout the camp, teachers interacted with world-class scientists, engineers, and industry leaders, gaining valuable insights and experience in this rapidly growing field to inspire your classrooms and communities. You can learn more on QcAMP's website. 

Teacher Testimonial - QcAMP

"QcAMP was an exciting opportunity to learn how quantum computing will impact the fields of cybersecurity, physics, medicine, and finance in the next 5 to 15 years." - Kristie Evans, Boulder TEC/Boulder Valley School District

Teacher Testimonial - Fortified Academy

Fortified Academy (Commercial Drivers License Apprenticeship): The Teacher extern experienced the training and requirements for CDL apprenticeships, understanding the critical role of transportation in the economy and the demand for skilled drivers. Visit Fortified Academy's Website

“I enjoyed my experience as an extern, and was able to work on connecting the pre-apprenticeship program at Fortified Academy with Jeffco Public Schools. I also connected with Jeffco Business and Workforce Center around braiding WIOA funds for eligible students in Fortified Academy’s  pre-apprenticeship Program.” – Devon Parson, Jeffco District WBL Coordinator 

Teacher Testimonial - ReadingXR

One teacher was trained on a HoloLens mixed reality device, within the Reading XR platform. This teacher used the device to test 30-35 adults and students on reading fluency, comprehension, and eye-tracking patterns. Results were shared to improve the Reading XR technology for future users, including K-12 schools across the country. 

Visit Reading XR's website to learn more. 

"This externship was a valuable experience that highlighted the direct link between vision and literacy comprehension. It was insightful to observe these challenges firsthand and understand how essential it is to have accurate tools for effective literacy assessment. I will share my experiences and the impact of educational technology with my students to help them explore related career options. By discussing how technology affects learning and literacy, I can inspire students to consider careers in educational technology, data analysis, and related fields, emphasizing the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by different communities." - Margelly Beltran, Horizon Community Middle School/Cherry Creek