Key Takeaways
- Mack Aiken and fellow NC State TEECA members grew personally and professionally through club involvement and national competition.
- Participation in the Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association (TEECA) helped students develop leadership, communication, and engineering design skills.
- The national TEECA competition in Virginia Beach offered valuable networking, mentorship, and exposure to diverse approaches to engineering education.
- Although the NC State team did not win first‑place awards, members reported increased confidence, clearer career visions, and stronger technical and interpersonal abilities.
- Support from alumni donations, such as the gift honoring Walter F. Kelly Jr., enables students to attend conferences that enrich their learning and professional networks.
Finding Confidence Through TEECA Involvement
When Mack Aiken first entered the Technology, Engineering, and Design program at NC State’s College of Education, she was reserved and tended to keep to herself. Over time, active participation in the Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association (TEECA) chapter helped her come out of her shell. Aiken described reaching a point where she feels comfortable being herself around others and eagerly engages in club activities such as fundraising, conferences, meetings, and judging. Her experience illustrates how the club serves as a safe space for students to develop social confidence while contributing to meaningful projects.
Alumni Support Fuels National Competition Travel
In March, several NC State TEECA members traveled to Virginia Beach for the national TEECA competition, made possible in part by a donation from former College of Education faculty member Alice Scales. The gift honored the memory of former Assistant Teaching Professor Walter F. Kelly Jr. ’13EDD, who passed away in February. Trent Phillips, a technology, engineering, and design education major, emphasized that the donation “goes a very long way in allowing us to go to conferences like this one” and called these events “the best part of every TEECA semester.” The financial backing underscores the lasting impact of alumni generosity on student opportunities.
Learning and Networking at the National TEECA Competition
As part of the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA) conference, the TEECA competition offered NC State students a chance to compete in various challenges while learning from peers and seasoned professionals. Sky Estrada, an electrical engineering major aspiring to become a teacher, highlighted the value of the speed‑mentoring event, where she received practical advice on finding the right community, supporting students, and pursuing lifelong learning. The competition thus functioned not only as a contest but also as a platform for professional development and mentorship.
Creative Expression in the Communications Challenge
Shailyn Mitchell, a College of Design student pursuing a minor in technology, engineering, and design education, directed and edited a TikTok‑style video for the communications challenge aimed at inspiring the next generation to consider careers in technology, engineering, and design education. While she worked hard on her submission, Mitchell was equally excited to view the entries from other schools. She noted that observing how different institutions approached the engineering design process was “very interesting” and provided fresh perspectives that enriched her own understanding of the field.
Hands‑On Robotics Experience Builds Leadership
Kayla Foreman, a College of Education student and TEECA member, competed in the robotics competition with a robot she built and named Niffty. The task required the robot to execute a kick, pass, and punt of a football on a scaled football field. Foreman reflected that working on the robot allowed her to hone leadership skills essential for guiding her team toward success. The robotics challenge exemplified how TEECA events integrate technical expertise with teamwork and project management.
Critical Thinking and Professional Networking Gained
Although the NC State TEECA chapter did not secure first‑place prizes in any of the competitions, participants emphasized that the preparation and participation itself were transformative. James Alligood, a technology, engineering, and design major, explained that the club challenged him to think critically about applied technology, as many competition themes tie into current events. He also noted gaining insight into the networking and mutual support available among technology, engineering, and design professionals—knowledge he views as vital for his future career.
Career Vision and Personal Growth Through Club Involvement
Several TEECA members expressed that their involvement in both national events and regular club activities helped them clarify career aspirations and develop essential competencies. Through the organization, students learned about the specific roles of technology, engineering, and design educators, practiced project management, strengthened communication abilities, and assumed leadership positions. These experiences collectively left them feeling prepared for the next steps in their professional journeys. Mack Aiken encapsulated this sentiment, stating that being part of TEECA has prepared her for a future in the field because “there is just so much we can do within the field,” allowing each member to find a niche and pursue it with confidence.
Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of TEECA on NC State Students
The experiences of Mack Aiken, Trent Phillips, Sky Estrada, Shailyn Mitchell, Kayla Foreman, James Alligood, and their peers illustrate how the Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association serves as more than a student club—it is a catalyst for personal development, technical skill acquisition, and professional readiness. By combining alumni‑funded travel opportunities, competitive challenges, mentorship events, and collaborative projects, TEECA equips NC State students with the confidence, knowledge, and networks needed to thrive as future educators, engineers, and innovators in technology and design fields.