NEDLA Presents! Teaching Ordinary Subjects in Extraordinary Ways

SESSION INFORMATION:

Competition for highly qualified, technical talent will continue to intensify to keep pace with technological innovation. To meet the challenge, educators must develop a STEM curriculum, often, with limited funding. Educators will see aerospace/STEM resources, activities, textbooks, products, and programs to use in any classroom or after-school or enrichment programs. These educational tips and materials can be used across disciplines in both core and elective studies. Aerospace Education learning resources/components augments and enhances existing classroom educational environment as well as motivating and stimulating student’s future job readiness and career growth. Diverse aerospace curriculum will develop an interest in and appreciation for aerospace/STEM subjects making education fun as our nation seeks to inspire the aerospace/STEM workforce of the next generation. Fortunately, there are available resources that recognizes the need for specialized future workforces through a variety of dynamic programs, products, and activities to assist educators. The challenge: getting the word out.

BIO: 

Lt. Col. Michael Catania - Civil Air Patrol  taught high school for 35 years, earning himself the educational experience that laid the foundation for his career in Aerospace Education. Starting in 1996, Mr. Castania joined the Civil Air Patrol and quickly progressed through the ranks to Lt. Colonel. During his 25+ year tenure, he has received myriad of awards including but not limited to Master Ratings in Aerospace Education and Professional Development, Exceptional Service Award, Meritorious Service Award, National and Region Commander’s Commendations, National General Jeanne M. Holm Aerospace Education Officer of the Year Award, and induction into New Jersey's Aviation Hall of Fame. Mr. Castania is a licensed pilot currently serving as the Director of Aerospace Education for the New Jersey Wing, CAP and Executive Director, NJ Aviation Education Council.