“I enjoy when I am able to get through to a struggling student. It is rewarding to know that I was able to help them understand the material presented. Seeing them have that “Aha” moment can make your day.”
Mike Cercone is an instructor for Central Connecticut State University’s (CCSU) Summer Technical Youth Program, Tech it Out. Mr. Cercone has been involved with Tech it Out for three years now. During his time teaching for CCSU’s summer youth program, he has taught several 3D printing and Minecraft classes to elementary, middle and high school students. In addition to Tech it Out, he teaches six levels of Computer Aided Design (CAD) at Masuk High School in Monroe, CT. The classes include Drafting, Architecture, Computer Aided Design, Pre-Engineering, and a 3D Printing course. Each of the courses teaches various CAD programs, Autodesk AutoCAD, and Autodesk Revit or SolidWorks. Mr. Cercone also teaches Advanced Parametric Design and 3D CAD Modeling at Naugatuck Valley Community College.
Mr. Cercone’s connection with CCSU expands beyond his current summer position, as he is a two time graduate of the university. He studied Technology Education for his Bachelor’s Degree and also achieved a Master’s Degree in Technology and Engineering Education. His experience at CCSU prepared Mr. Cercone for a career. He felt confident in the material he had learned, and believed CCSU gave him the ability to take any teaching position in Technology Engineering Education. His education also helped him create a respectable resume and portfolio, and gave him knowledge of how to present himself for any education interview.
Being an educator has been very rewarding for Mr. Cercone. In fact, there are so many positives to the job that he cannot pick just one as his favorite. He loves the fact that every time he walks into a classroom, he has students waiting to learn. At the end of the day, he STILL has students excited to learn. He also enjoys the fact that at the end of the road, there is always a vacation. With having off all major holidays, it satisfies Mr. Cercone to know that a three-day weekend is never too far away. Most importantly, he gets a thrill out of getting through to a struggling student, and helping them find that “Aha” moment.
For more information on the summer technical programs, contact Christa Sterling at 860-832-2277 or CSterling@ccsu.edu.