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Thomas Beck
Teacher Assistant Volunteer at Microsoft
Professional Background
Thomas Beck, MEd, is a highly talented and motivated professional with a diverse background in education, illustration, and electrical engineering. With years of experience as an Emergency Guest Teacher and a Head Coach for the Robotics Team, Thomas has demonstrated a profound commitment to facilitating the educational growth of students. He currently serves as an Emergency Guest Teacher in two school districts—South Kitsap and Central Kitsap—where he excels at creating a safe and engaging learning environment. His role involves facilitating lesson plans for absent teachers while ensuring that students remain focused and motivated during classes.
In addition to his teaching roles, Thomas has made significant contributions to Central Kitsap School District as the Head Coach of the Robotics of Central Kitsap (ROCK) team. Under his leadership, he has curated robust programs that promote the development of young minds. His dedication to fostering collaboration between secondary students and local businesses in Kitsap County is commendable. By encouraging mentorship opportunities, he provides students with invaluable hands-on experiences.
In the realm of higher education, Thomas has maintained a role as an Adjunct Instructor in Continuing Education at Tacoma Community College since May 2019. In this position, he nurtures a professional rapport with his students, promoting the college's mission of educational improvement, while carefully facilitating course curriculums to help students meet their academic goals. His passion for teaching and investment in students’ success is evident in all facets of his work.
Education and Achievements
Thomas’s educational trajectory is as remarkable as his career accomplishments. He has successfully garnered multiple degrees and certifications, continuously pursuing knowledge across a variety of disciplines.
Starting from his top-honors high school diploma at Irvin High School, Thomas went on to complete a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design at The Art Institute of Seattle, where he maintained a notable GPA of 3.7. He also holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Industrial and Product Design, graduating with honors and a GPA above 3.8—showcasing his commitment to excellence.
Furthering his studies in the arts, Thomas achieved a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Illustration from the prestigious Academy of Art University, cementing his status as an accomplished illustrator. In addition to his artistic pursuits, he earned a Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.Sc.) in Nuclear Engineering Technology/Technician from Excelsior College with a respectable GPA of 3.2. Most impressively, he completed a Master of Education (MEd) in Instructional Design at Western Governors University, emphasizing his dedication to integrating technology and design in education.
Thomas is also certified in Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Design Engineering/STEM from Olympic College, equipping him with the skills necessary to empower the next generation of engineers and designers.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Thomas has excelled in roles that span diverse sectors, including education, illustration, and engineering. He has showcased expertise in personnel management, attention to detail, and an extreme sense of ownership over his projects, inspiring those around him. His drive to illustrate and create intricate worlds from imagination is indeed a reflection of his innovative spirit, which he cultivates in his educational practices as well.
Notably, Thomas has been involved in various organizations and roles that contribute to his depth of experience, including volunteering as a Teacher Assistant at Microsoft and working as a remote substitute teacher for Summit Public Schools. His past positions illustrate his rich history in education and commitment to fostering student engagement.
Additionally, Thomas’s creativity and attention to detail are underscored by his tenure as a Lead Illustrator at Insanity-Print and Publish, LLC, and as a freelance illustrator on platforms like Upwork. His capability to pivot between technical engineering roles and artistic endeavors further demonstrates his ability to adapt and thrive in various environments.
Moreover, as a former Electronics Technician with the US Navy, Thomas harnessed technical skills that have undoubtedly enriched his approach to education and innovation within STEM disciplines.
Overall, Thomas Beck stands out for his impressive confluence of skills in education, engineering, and illustration. He is a unique individual who brings dreams to life, dedicating his career to ensuring that students not only dream but actively pursue and achieve their aspirations. Through his various roles, he embodies the principles of instruction, imagination, and innovation, serving as a beacon of inspiration within the educational landscape.
