Reflecting on My Externship Experience: Growth, Insight, and Real-World Impact:

Participating in this externship has been one of the most rewarding and energizing professional development experiences of my career. One of the highlights was the incredible collaboration I shared with my teaching partners, all under the superb guidance of an inspiring and knowledgeable mentor. Working together in such a dynamic and creative environment reminded me of the power of true teamwork and how much we can accomplish when we support and challenge one another toward a shared goal.

The Project: From Creative Exploration to Real-World Application:

Our main project was twofold: first, to immerse ourselves in learning a wide variety of technical and creative skills within a well-equipped makerspace, and second, to design and implement a hands-on kids camp that guided students through a journey of creativity, innovation, and the design thinking process. The ultimate goal was to help students bring their ideas to life—moving from concept to prototype to finished product—while developing critical real-world skills such as collaboration, time management, adaptability, and problem-solving.

What We Accomplished:

During our time at the host site, we explored tools and technologies ranging from 3D printing and laser cutting to circuitry and coding platforms. This hands-on learning was immediately applied as we built out an engaging, multi-day camp experience. The camp provided students with the opportunity to experience the full cycle of product development, simulating the kind of iterative process used in real-world design and engineering careers.

As a team, we successfully facilitated a space where students not only learned new skills but also practiced pitching their ideas, adjusting their designs based on feedback, and reflecting on their process. These are the same career and technical education (CTE) competencies that are essential in today’s workforce—and watching the students embrace and apply them was nothing short of inspiring.

Impact on My Teaching and Career Growth:

This externship experience has deeply impacted my approach to teaching as a CTE educator. Not only did I help guide students through a real-world design and innovation process during the camp, but I now have a refreshed and expanded skill set that I’m excited to bring directly into my classroom. I plan to implement more student-centered, industry-informed projects that mirror what we accomplished during the externship—giving my students the chance to see themselves as creators, designers, and future professionals.

This experience has strengthened both my technical abilities and my instructional confidence, especially in integrating authentic, career-connected learning. I’m returning to the classroom with a toolbox full of new strategies and a renewed passion for preparing students for success beyond school—in college, careers, and life.

With utmost sincerity,
Heather L

Grade Level and Subject Taught: 6th ELA/SS/Science