In the world of engineering and technology, the importance of skilled professionals cannot be overstated. Danielle Ward is an educator who stands at the forefront of transforming STEM education at Hilldale High School in Muskogee, Okla.
Awarded the 2024 Instructor of the Year by Tormach, Ward’s initiative to integrate hands-on experiences with cutting-edge technology has not only equipped her students with essential machining skills but also prepared them for successful careers in engineering and manufacturing.
Since her journey began in 2011, when she introduced a robotics program to her school, Ward has consistently demonstrated a commitment to cultivating a robust learning environment that puts the emphasis on practical applications and machine design and engineering principles. From creating miniature putt-putt courses to using CNC technology for real-world projects, her curriculum aims to be a blend of creativity and technical training that resonates with students and fosters a passion for STEM fields.
Machine Design reached out to Ward to learn about her experiences and highlight her innovative teaching methods, the significance of partnerships with organizations like the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3), and her vision for the future of STEM education—especially in encouraging female participation in technical roles. Here’s what she had to say.
Editor’s note: Questions and answers may be edited for clarity.
Machine Design: How do you collaborate with industry professionals to ensure that your curriculum aligns with current practices and demands?
Danielle Ward: Each year, I meet with different manufacturing companies in our area to hear their requirements for hiring future employees. I have local engineers come in and speak to our students, and we also hold career fairs in our building for our juniors and seniors to attend. Each one of these events allows me to remain current with the demands of our community.
MD: I know you use Tormach CNC routers and Dremel 3D printers in your classroom; what other tools or technologies do you integrate into your curriculum that are commonly used in engineering industries today?
DW: I incorporate the following for my middle school students to learn coding skills:
- Ozobots
- LEGO Spike Prime Kits
- Code.org
- VEX V5 Block Coding
- VEX V5 Python Coding (HS only)
For my high school STEM lab, I incorporate the Dremel Laser Engraver and have a printer that allows students to make posters that promote special events, such as our annual Penny Drive that supports our special ed students who attend the State Games at Oklahoma State University. We also have a Roland printer that allows students to create decals.
MD: How do you incorporate industry standards and best practices into your teaching? Are there specific frameworks of certifications you guide students to pursue?
DW: Personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety tests are given over each machine before they can earn their certifications. Students must be able to read a tape measure, ruler and calipers with 80% accuracy and draw their projects out on graph paper and apply an appropriate scale for their projects. Students are also introduced to blueprints and must understand the angle at which they are drawn.
MD: Have you received feedback from professionals in the field regarding the preparedness of your students? What insights have you gained from these interactions?
DW: I had a student who graduated this past May and was accepted into the Engineering Department at Oklahoma State University. His mom reached out this past spring to let me know, “He was officially bumped out of pre-CEAT and into CEAT; he won’t have any prerequisite to begin his engineering program.” I will take that knowledge and pass it on to my students this year.
I have also had multiple students be able to use the makerspace labs at their college/university because they have their 3D45 certifications. One student’s feedback was: “I actually used something I learned in high school at college.”
MD: Can you share any success stories of alumni who have transitioned into engineering roles? What aspects of your program do they credit with their success?
DW: I am in my third year of teaching at the high school level. As of right now, I do not have any alumni who have transitioned into engineering roles. I do, however, have three alumni who are currently attending Oklahoma State University to become engineers.
Editor’s Note: Machine Design’s WISE (Workers in Science and Engineering) hub compiles our coverage of workplace issues affecting the engineering field, in addition to contributions from equity seeking groups and subject matter experts within various subdisciplines.
