I am a Technical Education teacher with Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB), and my passion lies in teaching a diverse range of subjects within Tech Education, including Communications, Construction, Design, Computer Technology, Network Wiring, and Residential Wiring. My teaching journey is informed by a rich and varied background, with over fifteen years of experience in higher education at Western University.
During that time, I held several roles such as Interdisciplinary Media Lab Coordinator, Media Technician, Web Designer, and Network Operations Technician. These roles allowed me to develop an extensive technical skill set in areas like troubleshooting, network systems, and media management. Prior to teaching, I also gained hands-on experience in renovations and carpentry, which I now bring into the classroom to teach students practical skills in construction, troubleshooting, and design. Teaching allows me to share my passion for technology, building, and problem-solving with students.
I find great satisfaction in helping students build their own skills and confidence in solving real-world problems through technology, building, and design.
I began my teaching career as an occasional teacher while working on my Bachelor of Education (BEd) at Brock University. Early on, I filled in for a Communications Technology teacher in a Long-Term Occasional (LTO) position, teaching a mix of Communications Technology and Graphic Design. This role expanded my teaching to include sketching, drafting, AutoCAD, Photoshop, 3D printing, typography, animation, and computer technology.
After completing my BEd with a primary focus on Communications Technology, I continued my professional development by earning additional qualifications in Computer Technology and Construction Technology. Over the years, I’ve taught a variety of subjects at Saunders Secondary School, London Central, Strathroy District Collegiate, Montcalm Secondary School, and Clarke Road Secondary School. These courses included Communications Technology, Graphic Design, Electrical Wiring, Physical Education, Video Production, Photography, Construction, and Woodworking.
My passion for technology and hands-on learning drives me to teach, providing students with the opportunity to explore and apply their skills in real-world contexts.
School is about learning having fun and creating new relationships. Teachers have the opportunity to participate and make this happen. There are many aspects of school that I enjoy. Every semester brings a new set of challenges and excitement. I enjoy meeting new students and building students up throughout their time in my classes. I enjoy coaching extra-curricular activities like Cross Country (XC), Track & Field and Strength & Conditioning Programs. I am an endurance running coach with more than a decade of experience in multisport racing and international competition.
I am a very active individual and have a deep seeded passion for health and fitness. An avid runner and cyclist I race duathlon and triathlon events. I have had the fortunate opportunity to represent Canada at the World Duathlon Championships three times, twice in Spain and once in Denmark. My love for sports and commitment to my own health has led me down a very rewarding path where I can apply my learned focus, determination and dedication to teaching and life. Athletics and sports in general are their own metaphors for life and this is something that I draw on to inspire my students when it comes to sports or setting education goals. I am a motivational speaker and also elite athlete for F2C Nutrition.
Personal Website
spencersummerfield.ca