Alumni Highlights
Julee Henry
Current position:
I currently serve as the Director of Technology and Institutional Resources for the College of Education, Health, and Human Services at ÌìÌì³Ô¹Ï. My role focuses on leading strategic technology initiatives, supporting instructional innovation, and leading efforts that enhance teaching, learning, and operational effectiveness across the college. During the 18+ years I have been employed at ÌìÌì³Ô¹Ï, my work has included developing and leading spaces such as the Learning Innovations Lab and the 3D Print Lab, as well as advancing services through the Instructional Resource Center to better support faculty, staff, and student success.
Impact of the program on my career growth:
The ETEC program played a significant role in strengthening my ability to think more holistically and strategically about the integration of technology in educational environments. This perspective has directly informed my work in creating innovative learning spaces like the Learning Innovations Lab and expanding applied technologies such as 3D printing to support teaching, research, and learning. The program also contributed to my growth as a leader, particularly in thinking about change, collaboration, and long-term impact.
Valuable skills, experiences and projects:
One of the most valuable aspects of the program was the opportunity to engage in applied, project-based work that connected directly to real-world challenges. Designing learning experiences, evaluating emerging technologies, and focusing on user-centered approaches have all been especially relevant in my current role. I draw on those experiences regularly in my work, whether I’m launching new initiatives, such as the Learning Innovations Lab and 3D Print Lab, or enhancing the services of the Instructional Resource Center. In particular, the emphasis on aligning technology decisions with instructional needs has been critical in ensuring these initiatives have meaningful impact.
Advice for prospective students:
I would encourage you to fully engage with both the theoretical and practical aspects of the program. Take advantage of opportunities to apply what you are learning to your current or future professional context through projects, internships, or initiatives within your organization. Build connections with your peers and faculty, as those relationships can be incredibly valuable. Finally, stay curious and open to change. Educational technology is constantly evolving, and the ability to adapt, experiment, and lead innovation will serve you well.
Joshua Haney
Current position:
I teach 7th Grade Engineering Design and 8th Grade Robotics/Computer Science focusing on project-based learning with CAD, shop tools, 3D printers, Engraver, VEX Robotics components, and programming.
Impact of the program on my career growth:
The Educational Technology program at ÌìÌì³Ô¹Ï State has shifted my teaching from experience-based to research-informed practice grounded in learning science and motivation theory. I now intentionally design curriculum to build self-efficacy, persistence, and conceptual understanding, including through a scaffolded and spiral computer science instruction. It strengthened my identity as a reflective practitioner who aligns instruction with both academic and behavioral outcomes.
Valuable skills, experiences and projects:
I developed an eight-unit, scaffolded robotics and programming curriculum that uses students’ motivation in building to drive engagement in coding. By making robot performance the goal, students became more willing to debug, persist, and problem-solve, improving both confidence and outcomes. This strengthened my ability to align technical content with motivation and learning theory.
Advice for prospective students:
Engage deeply with research, reflection, and real-world application. The Educational Technology program is most valuable when you connect theory to practice and remain open to evolving your teaching. Focus on becoming an intentional, reflective educator, not just gaining technical skills.