This blog is part of a three-part webinar series about Empowering Tech Education for Districts. Watch the series on demand.
Behind every successful tech program is a dedicated and skilled educator. However, recruiting and training instructors for tech education presents a significant challenge. In a recent webinar, Stephanie Holt from Fairfax County Public Schools shared proven strategies for attracting, onboarding, and supporting teachers. Whether you’re a district administrator or a CTE director, this blog provides actionable insights to help you build a strong team of tech educators and empower the next generation of tech professionals.
The challenge of recruiting tech educators
The demand for tech educators continues to grow, but the supply remains limited. Many districts face difficulties finding qualified candidates, particularly in specialized fields like cybersecurity, cloud computing, and AI. Stephanie Holt is the Business and IT Program Manager for Fairfax County Public Schools, and she shares several innovative approaches to address these challenges and ensure a steady pipeline of skilled instructors.
Key insights from the webinar
1. Recruiting teachers from diverse backgrounds
Fairfax County has successfully expanded its recruitment efforts by tapping into diverse talent pools. Here’s how:
- Leveraging grants: Programs like the Go Virginia grant funded training for teachers transitioning from non-tech backgrounds, such as business and marketing.
- Tapping into industry professionals: Retired IT professionals and current IT staff were encouraged to transition into teaching roles, bringing valuable real-world experience to the classroom.
- Internal recruitment: Teachers with an interest in tech were supported in expanding their skill sets to take on new courses.
2. Onboarding and supporting new teachers
A strong onboarding process is critical for setting new teachers up for success. Fairfax County’s approach includes:
- Great beginnings program: A week-long orientation that familiarizes new teachers with the school system, teaching expectations, and available resources.
- Ongoing support: Weekly office hours, mentorship programs, and professional learning communities provide continuous guidance and resources for new educators.
3. Upskilling educators
Continuous professional development ensures teachers stay current with industry trends and technologies. Fairfax County offers:
- Certification training: Teachers are trained on industry-recognized certifications like CompTIA Tech+, A+, and Security+.
- Incentives: Recertification points and stipends motivate teachers to pursue additional training and certifications.
Actionable steps for educators
To recruit and train tech educators effectively, consider these strategies:
- Expand your recruitment pool:
- Partner with local colleges and universities to identify potential candidates.
- Reach out to industry professionals who may be interested in transitioning to teaching roles.
- Invest in professional development:
- Offer training programs aligned with industry certifications, such as CompTIA Tech+, A+, and Security+.
- Provide flexible learning resources like CompTIA’s OnDemand solutions to accommodate teachers’ schedules.
- Create a supportive environment:
- Establish mentorship programs to guide new teachers through their first years.
- Recognize and celebrate teachers’ achievements to boost morale and retention.
Recruiting and training tech educators is an ongoing effort that requires creativity, collaboration, and a commitment to professional growth. By implementing these strategies, you can build a team of educators equipped to inspire and prepare the next generation of tech professionals.
Experience how CompTIA can help build and support your tech programs and teachers.