CTE Graduate Profile

CAREER PATH

Chris Merrill, Ph.D., DTE

After high school, I attended a community college and majored in cabinetmaking. After graduating, I worked for several cabinetmakers, and also maintained my own side business. After several years of working in the cabinetmaking industry, I changed career paths and became a high school industrial technology teacher. After teaching high school, I decided to go back to school to earn a doctoral degree in integrated STEM education. My degrees consist of an AAS in Cabinetmaking, AS in General Education, BS in Industrial Technology Education, MS in Curriculum and Instruction with Supervision, and PhD in Integrated Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education.

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EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS NEEDED FOR THIS CAREER

HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED

Peoria Heights High School Peoria Heights, Illinois – Peoria County

Ability to use your hands and mind together to solve technical problems. Ability to communicate both orally and in writing. Critical thinking.

CTE DEPARTMENT/CLASSES ENROLLED IN DURING HIGH SCHOOL

Self-initiative. Collaboration.

Drafting, Woodworking, Building Trades, Autos

ADVICE TO HIGH SCHOOL CTE STUDENTS

CURRENT JOB TITLE

Professor, Technology and Engineering Education

1. Take as many CTE classes that you can during high school. 2. Get involved with service projects in your community where you can utilize your skills and learn from others. 3. Be open to career changes. 4. Continuing your education and training are important.

PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT

Illinois State University Normal, Illinois

CAREER PATHWAY

HOW HAS CTE MADE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR LIFE/CAREER?

Manufacturing, Engineering, Technology & Trades

My teachers, first and foremost. Passion for the content.