The TechEd Podcast

Matt Kirchner
  • 5.0 (39)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Bridging the gap between technical education & the workforce 🎙 Hosted by Matt Kirchner, each episode features conversations with leaders who are shaping, innovating and disrupting the future of the skilled workforce and how we inspire and train individuals toward those jobs. STEM, Career and Technical Education, and Engineering educators - this podcast is for you!Manufacturing and industrial employers - this podcast is for you, too!

  1. 4D AGO

    How to Build & Grow an Industry-Aligned CTE Program - Maroun Nehme, Director of Advanced Robotics and Mechatronics at BPHS

    Host Matt Kirchner sits down with Maroun Nehme, Advanced Robotics and Mechatronics teacher at Buena Park High School in California. Maroun has built one of the most impressive high school mechatronics & robotics programs in the country—complete with a structured 3-year pathway, hands-on labs, and SACA and FANUC certifications that prepare students directly for today’s workforce. But the learning doesn’t stay inside the classroom. Maroun leverages the power of social media, videos and events to turn his students’ achievements into powerful stories that resonate with parents, employers, and the broader community—growing support and enrollment year after year. Listen to learn: How a high school built an industry-aligned, 3-year pathway in advanced robotics and mechatronicsWhy third-party certifications—especially hands-on—are a must for real career readinessHow offering honors-level CTE courses attracts both college-bound and career-focused studentsWhy social media became the program’s most powerful tool for enrollment, engagement, and advocacyEducators: Get tips for how to start a CTE program like Buena Park's, AND how to harness the power of social media for your program!3 Big Takeaways from this Episode: 1. Industry certifications should be foundational—not optional—in high school CTE programs. At Buena Park High School, students earn SACA, FANUC, and Amatrol certifications across a 3-year advanced robotics and mechatronics pathway. These credentials aren’t just test scores—they’re tied directly to hands-on skills that industry demands, giving students tangible proof they’re workforce-ready. 2. Offering honors-level credit in CTE courses attracts a wider range of students and elevates program credibility. Maroun intentionally made the second and third years of his program include honors-level courses to appeal to college-bound students who care about GPA and academic rigor. It sends a clear message: hands-on technical education is for all students. 3. Strategic storytelling is one of the most effective tools for growing CTE programs. By showcasing student certifications, projects, and success stories on Instagram, LinkedIn, and at community events, Maroun built recognition from city leaders, employers, parents and school administrators. One student-led video even helped redefine how people perceive technical education in his district. Connect with the Maroun and BPHS ARM Program on Social Media: Instagram  |  X  |  LinkedIn Resources in this Episode: To learn more about the Advanced Robotics and Mechatronics (ARM) program, visit their site! Other resources: Visit the official show notes page to access more resources! We want to hear from you! Send us a text. Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

    46 min

  2. MAY 6

    Inside the Bipartisan Push for America’s Skilled Workforce - U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin

    How do we build bipartisan momentum to support the future of CTE? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, a national leader and co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus. Drawing from her personal upbringing in a STEM-focused household and her decades of public service, Senator Baldwin shares why CTE is essential to our economic future. Senator Baldwin offers a candid look at how federal policy is influencing the future of technical education. She discusses the uncertain outlook for funding, efforts to align apprenticeship laws with modern tech careers, and why short-term training is becoming a national priority. With clear ties to workforce needs and economic strategy, it’s a conversation grounded in both practicality and urgency. Listen to learn: Why short-term training needs to be federally funded like degree programsWhat Congress is doing to modernize U.S. apprenticeship lawsHow Buy America provisions are creating new manufacturing jobsWhy the technical college system is a key asset in attracting new industry3 Big Takeaways from this Episode: 1. CTE is one of the rare policy areas with true bipartisan alignment: From Buy America provisions to workforce training, Baldwin sees common ground among lawmakers focused on economic development. She credits this unity to the shared recognition that technical education is vital to America’s industrial strength. 2. Short-term training needs to be recognized in federal financial aid policy: Senator Baldwin emphasized the importance of allowing Pell Grants and other aid to support short, job-focused programs—not just two- or four-year degrees. Without this flexibility, learners may be forced to take on unnecessary debt or misrepresent their intentions just to access support. 3. Apprenticeship programs must be updated to reflect today’s workforce: The National Apprenticeship Act hasn’t been reauthorized since 1937, leaving many modern industries and small businesses without a clear path to participate. Baldwin is pushing for a bipartisan update that would make it easier for employers of all sizes to offer earn-and-learn opportunities. Resources in this Episode: To learn more about Senator Tammy Baldwin, visit: www.baldwin.senate.gov Connect with the Senator on Social Media: Facebook  |  Instagram  |  X  |  YouTube We want to hear from you! Send us a text. Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

    25 min

  3. APR 29

    From the Shop Floor to the Fast Lane: How Racing, Technical Skills and Workforce Strategy Collide - Justin Mondeik, Owner & Driver at Mondeik Racing

    By day, Justin Mondeik applies his technical skills in engineering; by night and weekend, he races Super Late Model cars. From racing snowmobiles at age four to competing just one level below NASCAR, Justin has built a career on technical skill, hands-on passion, and relentless drive. In this episode, he shares how a technical education prepared him for success on and off the track—and how motorsports can help manufacturers reach the next generation of talent. In this conversation, Justin takes us inside the highly technical world of racing—from chassis dynamics and car setups to the conditioning and precision it takes to win. We explore how manufacturers are using racing sponsorships not just for brand exposure, but as a creative workforce strategy to recruit skilled, hands-on talent. It's a conversation that'll get you thinking about how education & industry can leverage ultra-creative ways to engage the next generation of workforce talent. Listen to learn: Hear what it's like to be behind the wheel of a race car, and all the unseen work that goes into winningWhy hands-on experience and technical training give racers an edgeThe science—and occasional mystery—behind setting up a winning carHow educators can leverage students' hobbies to engage them in hands-on learningHow companies can tap into motorsports to recruit the next generation of talent3 Big Takeaways from this Episode: 1. Technical education can give students an edge—on and off the track. Justin’s background in mechanical design from Northcentral Technical College and Michigan Tech gives him a competitive advantage in racing—from car setup to real-time problem-solving. That same hands-on, systems-based thinking is exactly what manufacturers need in their workforce today. 2. Motorsports audiences are filled with future skilled workers. Fans who show up at the track tend to be mechanically inclined, hands-on, and deeply interested in how things work—traits that align closely with careers in manufacturing, machining, and engineering. These are often the same students who thrive in tech ed programs. 3. Industrial employers can benefit by getting creative with their workforce outreach strategies. One of Justin’s manufacturing sponsors used his car and race-day presence to launch a targeted hiring campaign—and successfully recruited new employees. Since there's so much overlap in racing fans and technical talent, it's a creative place for manufacturers to immerse themselves and engage with a potential workforce. Resources in this Episode: Connect with Justin Mondeik Racing: https://www.justinmondeikracing.com/ Connect with Justin on Social Media: Facebook  |  Instagram  |  X  |  TikTok We want to hear from you! Send us a text. Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

    37 min

  4. APR 22

    Changing Tariffs Will Impact Technical Education—Here’s What to Do About It

    What do tariffs have to do with technical education? A lot more than you might think. As U.S. trade policy shifts, it’s not just manufacturers who will feel the effects—STEM and technical education programs will too. From rising equipment costs to a surge in demand for skilled talent, today’s tariff decisions could reshape how we train tomorrow’s workforce. In this episode, Matt Kirchner explores five critical ways that educators should be preparing for the ripple effects of tariffs. It’s a wake-up call to start thinking strategically, update your curriculum, and make sure your students are ready for a world where automation, AI, and global trade all converge in the classroom. Listen to learn: Why technical training programs should expect price hikes—and how to budget for themHow trade policy is accelerating the need for AI and automation educationWhat states will soon be looking for when they invest in workforce developmentWhy traditional “shop class” thinking won’t cut it in a high-tech economyHow to scenario-plan your way through policy uncertainty5 Big Takeaways from this Episode: Tariffs will accelerate the return of manufacturing—and increase demand for skilled talent. As reshoring continues, manufacturers will need more trained workers than ever before. Technical education programs must be ready to scale up and supply that talent.The jobs aren’t coming back the way they left—they’re far more automated. Modern manufacturing is built on robotics, sensors, and smart systems. Educators must pivot from legacy skills to training in advanced automation technologies.Artificial intelligence is becoming central to every technical career. AI is transforming how work gets done across industries, including manufacturing. Students need exposure to data systems, machine learning, and the edge-to-cloud continuum now.Expect rising equipment costs—and budget accordingly. Tariffs will drive up prices on imported training tools and components. Programs should prepare for 10–15% increases and act early to avoid disruption.State funding is likely to grow—but only for programs that can prove results. As federal education policy shifts to the states, workforce funding will follow. Educators who can demonstrate strong pipelines to high-skill jobs will be the ones who get funded.Resources in this Episode: Book: Genesis: Artificial Intelligence, Hope, and the Human SpiritDeloitte study on manufacturing workforce gapsJamie Dimon, JPMorgan Chairman & CEO, "As always, we hope for the best but prepare the Firm for a wide range of scenarios.”Other episodes mentioned: What Rising Tariffs Mean for Companies, Workers, and the Future of Trade, John Murphy - Vice President and Head of International, U.S. ChWe want to hear from you! Send us a text. Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

    38 min

  5. APR 15

    AI Regulation Can Wait—But Education Reform Can’t - State Senator Julian Bradley

    State Senator Julian Bradley joins Matt Kirchner for a wide-ranging conversation on how policymakers should be thinking about AI, energy, and education. Bradley explains why his committee chose not to recommend regulation of AI, how this move differs from other states, and how artificial intelligence could help solve workforce shortages in critical sectors like healthcare, public safety, and manufacturing. The conversation also explores the future of nuclear energy as a clean, scalable power source—especially as data centers and advanced industries drive up demand. Bradley shares his push for small modular reactors and the bipartisan momentum behind nuclear innovation. Finally, the two dive into K-12 education, taking on literacy rates, school choice, and why high schools need a complete overhaul to actually prepare students for life after graduation. Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, or industry leader, this episode offers practical insights into the policy decisions shaping our future workforce. In this episode: Why one state senator believes not regulating AI may be the smartest moveHow artificial intelligence could help solve labor shortages from childcare to healthcareWhat policymakers are missing about nuclear energy—and why that’s about to changeWhy our current education system is setting students up to fail, and what to do insteadHow a wrestling ring, a mother’s wisdom, and a literacy-first mindset shaped a political career3 Big Takeaways from this Episode: Regulating artificial intelligence requires caution, context, and a long-term view: Senator Bradley led a legislative study committee on the regulation of AI and ultimately chose not to recommend new regulation, citing the risk of stifling innovation and creating barriers for businesses. Drawing on testimony from sectors like healthcare, public safety, and education, the committee focused instead on building a knowledge base for future legislative action—prioritizing flexibility over rushed policymaking.Meeting future energy demand will require bold thinking and bipartisan cooperation: With AI, data centers, and industry driving massive increases in power needs, Bradley is pushing Wisconsin to embrace nuclear energy as a scalable, clean solution. He outlines current efforts to support small modular reactors, prepare regulatory frameworks, and position the state as a leader in 21st-century energy policy.Education reform must focus on real-world readiness, from literacy to life skills: Bradley calls for a complete overhaul of high school—moving away from rigid grade levels toward personalized, career-connected learning. He also stresses that without strong literacy skills, students can’t access opportunity, and that solving academic gaps early is essential to preparing engaged citizens and a capable workforce.Resources in this Episode: Learn more about Senator Julian Bradley Learn about the work of the 2024 Legislative Council Study Committee on the Regulation of Artificial Intelligence We want to hear from you! Send us a text. Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

    53 min

  6. APR 8

    The 50/50 University Model that Leaves Grads with 2.5 Years of Work Experience and $75k - Dr. Robert McMahan, President of Kettering University

    Is the traditional university model failing today’s students—and the industries that depend on them? Dr. Robert McMahan, President of Kettering University, shares a bold, workforce-driven vision for higher education. From co-op rotations that give students 2.5 years of paid, professional experience before graduation, to integrating trends like artificial intelligence and sustainability across all disciplines, McMahan outlines what it takes to future-proof students for a rapidly evolving economy—and why most institutions will fall behind if they don’t evolve now. In this episode: Why Kettering students graduate with 2.5 years of paid, full-time professional experience—and often earn $75,000+ before they even walk the stageHow a 12-week rotation model between classroom and career builds both technical mastery and real-world adaptabilityWhat five interdisciplinary trends are shaping the future of Kettering’s curriculumWhy McMahan says the real customer of higher education isn’t the student or their family—and how that changes how we deliver learning3 Big Takeaways from this Episode: 1. Kettering University’s 50/50 model gives students 2.5 years of paid, professional work experience Through alternating 12-week rotations between classroom and career, students graduate with a résumé that rivals experienced professionals—and often $75,000+ in earnings. 2. The university continuously evolves its curriculum around five workplace-driven trends Every discipline includes elements of advanced mobility, sustainable energy, intelligent manufacturing, AI, and new engineering vehicles—keeping students aligned with real-world needs. 3. McMahan redefines who the true customer of higher education is It’s not just the student—it’s the employer who hires them. By working with over 450 industry partners, Kettering ensures its grads are future-ready and in high demand. Resources in this Episode: Learn more about Kettering University's model: https://www.kettering.edu/co-op-experience See what companies have partnered with Kettering. Read Genesis: Artificial Intelligence, Hope and the Human Spirit by Henry Kissinger, Eric Schmidt and Craig Mundie We want to hear from you! Send us a text. Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

    42 min

  7. APR 1

    Microsoft, the Packers, and the Venture Firm Betting on Midwest Innovation - Jill Enos, Managing Partner of TitletownTech

    What happens when a legendary NFL team partners with a tech giant to fuel regional innovation? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Jill Enos, Managing Partner at TitletownTech — the one-of-a-kind venture firm backed by the Green Bay Packers and Microsoft. Jill unpacks how TitletownTech is redefining early-stage investing by embedding startups directly into industry, education, and community. From AI labs and autonomous robotics to sustainable agtech and nuclear fusion, Jill reveals how the Midwest is quietly leading a new era of tech-driven economic development. Listen to learn: How TitletownTech blends NFL roots with global tech leadership to drive innovationWhy Microsoft chose Wisconsin for its new $3.3B data center and AI Co-Innovation LabWhat makes the Midwest the perfect launchpad for startups solving real-world problemsHow venture-backed founders are tackling challenges in energy, logistics, and healthcareWhy exposure to problems — not solutions — is the secret to educating tomorrow’s innovators3 Big Takeaways from this Episode: Public-private partnerships can fuel real innovation TitletownTech was founded through a unique partnership between the Green Bay Packers and Microsoft, later joined by 25+ corporate investors like Schneider, Kohler, and AT&T. This model provides startups with not only capital but direct access to strategic partners, industry leaders, and market feedback that accelerates growth.The Midwest is a powerful engine for emerging technologies TitletownTech has invested in over 30 companies, including Realta Fusion (nuclear energy), Fork Farms (agtech), GenLogs (freight intelligence), and Cobionics (healthcare robotics). Microsoft’s $3.3 billion data center in Mount Pleasant and the launch of the AI Co-Innovation Lab in partnership with UW-Milwaukee are cementing Wisconsin’s place as a tech and AI hub.Solving the right problem matters more than having the right answer Jill Enos emphasizes that successful founders are “obsessed with the problem” rather than fixated on one solution — a mindset educators should instill in students. Startups like Springbok Analytics, which uses AI to create digital twins of MRIs, thrive by iterating solutions through real-time market feedback and strategic industry partnerships.Resources in this Episode: Learn more about TitletownTech: https://www.titletowntech.com/ Partnerships mentioned in this episode: AI Co-Innovation Lab (UWM + Microsoft + TitletownTech)Microsoft Data Center (listen to our conversation with Microsoft VP Mary Snapp)Dive deeper into some of TitletownTech's portfolio companies that were featured in this episode: Fork Farms - Indoor hydroponicsCobionix - Heathcare robotics & autonomous ultrasoundsGenLogs - Freight intelligenceRealta Fusion We want to hear from you! Send us a text. Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

    49 min

  8. MAR 25

    The Lifelong Impact of Mentorship for STEM Students - Joe Tanner and Curtis Althaus, the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation

    The right mentor can totally change the college and career trajectory of a student. Today, we're exploring the power of mentorships through the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. Join former NASA astronaut Joe Tanner and current Astronaut Scholar Curtis Althaus as they dive into the powerful, and often overlooked, role mentorship plays in building tomorrow’s innovators. Through their personal stories, you’ll hear how mentorship goes beyond simply offering advice. It’s about offering guidance in those pivotal moments—helping mentees navigate tough decisions, inspiring them to chase big dreams, and providing the type of insight that only years of experience can offer. Whether it’s choosing between two internships or deciding which research path to pursue, mentorship gives students the clarity and confidence they need to thrive. The conversation also sheds light on why the mentorship experience is a two-way street. For Joe, it’s not just about imparting wisdom; it’s about building meaningful relationships that continue to shape both mentors and mentees long after the formal program ends. And for Curtis, being part of ASF isn’t just about the scholarship—it’s about becoming part of a dynamic community that challenges him to push boundaries and think bigger. Listen to learn: Why mentorship in STEM isn’t just about academic guidanceThe unexpected ways mentorship creates clarity, confidence, and lifelong connections for both mentors and menteesHow ASF’s mentorship program builds a community where learning, collaboration, and innovation go hand in handWhat it means to be a part of a “family” of scholars who not only receive support but give it back as they growThe actionable insights Joe and Curtis share about navigating career decisions, embracing failure, and seizing unexpected opportunities3 Big Takeaways from this Episode: Mentorship in STEM goes far beyond academics. Joe and Curtis share how their mentor/mentee relationship is far less about Joe advising Curtis on his academic journey, and far more about sharing a lifetime of wisdom to help Curtis with all aspects of life. It's a great reminder that you don't need to be an expert in the same field as a student to become their mentor.Programs like ASF offer a lifelong community which can have long-reaching impact for students. Curtis shares how his ASF experience has evolved from academic support to a true "family" environment, where the community of scholars connects, learns from each other, and shares the same passions and big ideas. Getting involved in a community of peers - those with similar ideals and those with differing viewpoints - can have a huge impact on a student's life.Brilliant people can come from anywhere. Credit to Curtis for this brilliant observation, but through his time at ASF he's met bright individuals from every background imaginable. Being open to new people and new experiences can create a much more wholistic life experience for young students.Resources in this Episode: Learn more about the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation, visit: www.astronautscholarship.org We want to hear from you! Send us a text. Instagram - Facebook - YouTube - TikTok - Twitter - LinkedIn

    35 min
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About

Bridging the gap between technical education & the workforce 🎙 Hosted by Matt Kirchner, each episode features conversations with leaders who are shaping, innovating and disrupting the future of the skilled workforce and how we inspire and train individuals toward those jobs. STEM, Career and Technical Education, and Engineering educators - this podcast is for you!Manufacturing and industrial employers - this podcast is for you, too!

Information

  • Creator
    Matt Kirchner
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    217
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The TechEd Podcast
  • Show Website
    The TechEd Podcast

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