This summer, 80 instructors and success coaches across Georgia and Ohio are stepping into TECH CORPS programs with more than lesson plans in hand. TECH CORPS equips its summer staff with powerful tools for building relationships and empowering students. Our immersive Summer Staff Training prepares these professionals to lead Techie Camps, Work-Based Learning (WBL), and Pre-Apprenticeship programs with confidence.
Ohio Summer Staff
Georgia Summer Staff
Beyond Coding: A Pedagogical Approach to Technology Education
At the heart of our training is a philosophy that puts pedagogy before content. Kryssie Smith, TECH CORPS’ Manager of Programs & Curriculum, leads the training and explains:
“It’s not just about what you teach—it’s about how you teach and who you are to your students. We focus on encouraging deeper thinking and being the kind of adult our students can trust.”
Kryssie’s emphasis on instructor-student relationships is one reason TECH CORPS has a strong return rate among its summer staff. Instructors are not only trained to teach—they’re prepared to support and inspire.
Meeting K-12 Students Where They Are in Tech Learning
Many students participating in TECH CORPS programs have experienced disconnection or disappointment in traditional educational settings. Kryssie shared that students often walk in expecting to be let down.
Our training includes real-world scenarios that help staff practice restoring relationships. Something as simple (and powerful) as a genuine apology is discussed and modeled.
“It’s essential that instructors understand how to establish and maintain relationships,” said Kryssie. “We practice these moments during training so they’re ready when it counts.”
Designing Curriculum that Mirrors the Student Experience
The training is intentionally designed to reflect the learning environments we create for our students. Through collaborative activities and peer discussions, instructors experience the same type of hands-on, engaging learning we ask them to deliver in the classroom.
“Instructors need to allow themselves to be learners,” Kryssie said. “Only then can they fully empathize with and effectively teach their students.”
This immersive approach prepares instructors to teach and equips them with essential skills that mirror those they’ll instill in students: problem-solving, collaboration, communication, and adaptability.
Voices from the Field: Why Real-World Tech Education Matters
Rena’s Summer Goal: Empowering Students Through Hands-On Tech Learning
For returning instructor Rena Roundtree, the most powerful part of this year’s training was the sense of community:
“The most impactful part of the training was meeting and engaging with the entire team of instructors. We fed off each other’s enthusiasm, and it was incredibly motivating.”
“To create an engaging and low-pressure environment where students can explore technology. Even if they decide tech isn’t for them, they’ll walk away having gained real experience and exposure from professionals who are genuinely invested in their growth.”
Victoria Jackson, another returning instructor, appreciated the opportunity to dig into program updates and deepen her knowledge:
“For me, the most impactful part of training was the opportunity to delve deeper into the new changes made to the Work-Based Learning activities.”
“I plan to help guide students in the right direction towards achieving their life goals—no matter short or long term.”
Victoria’s Teaching Style: Mentorship-Driven, Student-Centered Instruction
Maddie’s Mission: Using Tech Education to Inspire and Uplift Youth
“I want to help students build confidence in their skills and show them that tech is something they can truly excel in, regardless of where they’re starting from.”
Maddie is a 2025 Miami University graduate and continues to return to instruct with TECH CORPS each year because she sees real impact:
“The mission of TECH CORPS aligns so closely with my own values. Every summer, I see firsthand how our programs open doors for students. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be a part of TECH CORPS’ mission to deliver meaningful, career-connected technology programs that create opportunities for K-12 students and educators.”
Teaching Technology with Heart: Building Confidence and Connection
At TECH CORPS, we don’t just train summer staff; we empower them to lead with heart, teach with intention, and make a difference that lasts long after the program ends. With 80 dedicated instructors and success coaches trained and ready, students in Georgia and Ohio are in for a summer of learning, growth, and exploration. We are deeply grateful to American Electric Power Foundation and Nord Family Foundation whose generous support makes this work possible.
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