Mrs. Gillen

Technology and Engineering Education

ngillen@eastpennsd.org

Eyer Middle School

Teaching youth to design and build their futures with heart, hands and hammers.

Meet Mrs. Gillen

Hello! My name is Mrs. Gillen, and I teach Technology and Engineering Education at Eyer Middle School for students in grades 6-8. In our Tech Ed classes, students will explore the principles of design and engineering to learn how to creatively shape and improve the world around them. I graduated from Millersville University in 2016 with a Bachelor’s degree in Technology and Engineering Education and earned my Master’s degree in Instructional Technology from Kutztown University in 2018.

Outside of the classroom, I lead the STEM Club, which is open to students in grades 6-8 who are interested in exploring the world of woodworking.

Additionally, every spring, the middle-level Technology and Engineering Education department hosts the Girls in STEM event to inspire and empower young women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

When I’m not teaching, I enjoy traveling, antiquing, eating great food, and exploring new places. I also have two cats, a dog and five chickens that I love dearly!

Current Courses

In middle school Tech Ed, students will work with two teachers over the course of one marking period. They will spend 22 days in my class before transitioning to the other Tech Ed teacher for the remainder of the marking period. Each teacher focuses on a different branch of Tech Ed to provide students with a well rounded experience. The final grade for Tech Ed is inclusive of assignments from both teachers.

6th Grade: Construction Technologies

In 6th grade, students dive into the world of structural engineering, exploring the forces that impact structures. Through hands-on learning, they will design and build truss bridge prototypes, applying the engineering design process to test and optimize their load-bearing capabilities.

7th Grade: Communications

In 7th grade Tech Ed, students explore the art of visual communication through graphic design. They’ll dive into the world of screen printing, learning about the printing process while designing their own custom logos. By the end of the course, students will apply their skills to create a unique, personalized article of clothing.

8th Grade: Exploratory Capstone

In 8th grade Tech Ed, students apply the engineering design process to tackle complex problems, refine solutions, and create sustainable outcomes. Through hands-on projects, they focus on problem-solving, 3D modeling, and electricity, utilizing tools, materials, and iterative testing to bring their ideas to life.

Student Work

3D Modeling + 3D Printing

Structural Engineering: Truss Bridges

Graphic Design:

Screen Printing Custom Logos

LED Sign: Parallel Circuits

STEM Club

STEM Club offers students passionate about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in woodworking. Students design and create projects using various tools and technologies, fostering creativity and practical skills. Sign-ups for STEM Club are once a year in the fall.

Let's Get Connected

You can always email me with questions, but the best way to see what we're doing in class and if your child has assignments coming up is by getting connected via email: ngillen@eastpennsd.org