By day, Justin Mondeik applies his technical skills in engineering; by night and weekend, he races Super Late Model cars.

From racing snowmobiles at age four to competing just one level below NASCAR, Justin has built a career on technical skill, hands-on passion, and relentless drive. In this episode, he shares how a technical education prepared him for success on and off the track—and how motorsports can help manufacturers reach the next generation of talent.

In this conversation, Justin takes us inside the highly technical world of racing—from chassis dynamics and car setups to the conditioning and precision it takes to win.

We explore how manufacturers are using racing sponsorships not just for brand exposure, but as a creative workforce strategy to recruit skilled, hands-on talent. It's a conversation that'll get you thinking about how education & industry can leverage ultra-creative ways to engage the next generation of workforce talent.

Listen to learn:

• Hear what it's like to be behind the wheel of a race car, and all the unseen work that goes into winning
• Why hands-on experience and technical training give racers an edge
• The science—and occasional mystery—behind setting up a winning car
• How educators can leverage students' hobbies to engage them in hands-on learning
• How companies can tap into motorsports to recruit the next generation of talent

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Technical education can give students an edge—on and off the track. Justin’s background in mechanical design from Northcentral Technical College and Michigan Tech gives him a competitive advantage in racing—from car setup to real-time problem-solving. That same hands-on, systems-based thinking is exactly what manufacturers need in their workforce today.

2. Motorsports audiences are filled with future skilled workers. Fans who show up at the track tend to be mechanically inclined, hands-on, and deeply interested in how things work—traits that align closely with careers in manufacturing, machining, and engineering. These are often the same students who thrive in tech ed programs.

3. Industrial employers can benefit by getting creative with their workforce outreach strategies. One of Justin’s manufacturing sponsors used his car and race-day presence to launch a targeted hiring campaign—and successfully recruited new employees. Since there's so much overlap in racing fans and technical talent, it's a creative place for manufacturers to immerse themselves and engage with a potential workforce.

Resources in this Episode:

Connect with Justin Mondeik Racing: https://www.justinmondeikracing.com/

Connect with Justin on Social Media:

Facebook  |  Instagram  |  X  |  TikTok

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What do tariffs have to do with technical education? A lot more than you might think.

As U.S. trade policy shifts, it’s not just manufacturers who will feel the effects—STEM and technical education programs will too. From rising equipment costs to a surge in demand for skilled talent, today’s tariff decisions could reshape how we train tomorrow’s workforce.

In this episode, Matt Kirchner explores five critical ways that educators should be preparing for the ripple effects of tariffs. It’s a wake-up call to start thinking strategically, update your curriculum, and make sure your students are ready for a world where automation, AI, and global trade all converge in the classroom.

Listen to learn:

• Why technical training programs should expect price hikes—and how to budget for them
• How trade policy is accelerating the need for AI and automation education
• What states will soon be looking for when they invest in workforce development
• Why traditional “shop class” thinking won’t cut it in a high-tech economy
• How to scenario-plan your way through policy uncertainty

5 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Tariffs will accelerate the return of manufacturing—and increase demand for skilled talent. As reshoring continues, manufacturers will need more trained workers than ever before. Technical education programs must be ready to scale up and supply that talent.
2. The jobs aren’t coming back the way they left—they’re far more automated. Modern manufacturing is built on robotics, sensors, and smart systems. Educators must pivot from legacy skills to training in advanced automation technologies.
3. Artificial intelligence is becoming central to every technical career. AI is transforming how work gets done across industries, including manufacturing. Students need exposure to data systems, machine learning, and the edge-to-cloud continuum now.
4. Expect rising equipment costs—and budget accordingly. Tariffs will drive up prices on imported training tools and components. Programs should prepare for 10–15% increases and act early to avoid disruption.
5. State funding is likely to grow—but only for programs that can prove results. As federal education policy shifts to the states, workforce funding will follow. Educators who can demonstrate strong pipelines to high-skill jobs will be the ones who get funded.

Resources in this Episode:

• Book: Genesis: Artificial Intelligence, Hope, and the Human Spirit
• Deloitte study on manufacturing workforce gaps
• Jamie Dimon, JPMorgan Chairman & CEO, "As always, we hope for the best but prepare the Firm for a wide range of scenarios.”

Other episodes mentioned:

• What Rising Tariffs Mean for Companies, Workers, and the Future of Trade,
  John Murphy - Vice President and Head of International, U.S. Ch

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State Senator Julian Bradley joins Matt Kirchner for a wide-ranging conversation on how policymakers should be thinking about AI, energy, and education. Bradley explains why his committee chose not to recommend regulation of AI, how this move differs from other states, and how artificial intelligence could help solve workforce shortages in critical sectors like healthcare, public safety, and manufacturing.

The conversation also explores the future of nuclear energy as a clean, scalable power source—especially as data centers and advanced industries drive up demand. Bradley shares his push for small modular reactors and the bipartisan momentum behind nuclear innovation. Finally, the two dive into K-12 education, taking on literacy rates, school choice, and why high schools need a complete overhaul to actually prepare students for life after graduation. Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, or industry leader, this episode offers practical insights into the policy decisions shaping our future workforce.

In this episode:

• Why one state senator believes not regulating AI may be the smartest move
• How artificial intelligence could help solve labor shortages from childcare to healthcare
• What policymakers are missing about nuclear energy—and why that’s about to change
• Why our current education system is setting students up to fail, and what to do instead
• How a wrestling ring, a mother’s wisdom, and a literacy-first mindset shaped a political career

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Regulating artificial intelligence requires caution, context, and a long-term view: Senator Bradley led a legislative study committee on the regulation of AI and ultimately chose not to recommend new regulation, citing the risk of stifling innovation and creating barriers for businesses. Drawing on testimony from sectors like healthcare, public safety, and education, the committee focused instead on building a knowledge base for future legislative action—prioritizing flexibility over rushed policymaking.
2. Meeting future energy demand will require bold thinking and bipartisan cooperation: With AI, data centers, and industry driving massive increases in power needs, Bradley is pushing Wisconsin to embrace nuclear energy as a scalable, clean solution. He outlines current efforts to support small modular reactors, prepare regulatory frameworks, and position the state as a leader in 21st-century energy policy.
3. Education reform must focus on real-world readiness, from literacy to life skills: Bradley calls for a complete overhaul of high school—moving away from rigid grade levels toward personalized, career-connected learning. He also stresses that without strong literacy skills, students can’t access opportunity, and that solving academic gaps early is essential to preparing engaged citizens and a capable workforce.

Resources in this Episode:

Learn more about Senator Julian Bradley

Learn about the work of the 2024 Legislative Council Study Committee on the Regulation of Artificial Intelligence

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Is the traditional university model failing today’s students—and the industries that depend on them?

Dr. Robert McMahan, President of Kettering University, shares a bold, workforce-driven vision for higher education.

From co-op rotations that give students 2.5 years of paid, professional experience before graduation, to integrating trends like artificial intelligence and sustainability across all disciplines, McMahan outlines what it takes to future-proof students for a rapidly evolving economy—and why most institutions will fall behind if they don’t evolve now.

In this episode:

• Why Kettering students graduate with 2.5 years of paid, full-time professional experience—and often earn $75,000+ before they even walk the stage
• How a 12-week rotation model between classroom and career builds both technical mastery and real-world adaptability
• What five interdisciplinary trends are shaping the future of Kettering’s curriculum
• Why McMahan says the real customer of higher education isn’t the student or their family—and how that changes how we deliver learning

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Kettering University’s 50/50 model gives students 2.5 years of paid, professional work experience
Through alternating 12-week rotations between classroom and career, students graduate with a résumé that rivals experienced professionals—and often $75,000+ in earnings.

2. The university continuously evolves its curriculum around five workplace-driven trends
Every discipline includes elements of advanced mobility, sustainable energy, intelligent manufacturing, AI, and new engineering vehicles—keeping students aligned with real-world needs.

3. McMahan redefines who the true customer of higher education is
It’s not just the student—it’s the employer who hires them. By working with over 450 industry partners, Kettering ensures its grads are future-ready and in high demand.

Resources in this Episode:

Learn more about Kettering University's model: https://www.kettering.edu/co-op-experience

See what companies have partnered with Kettering.

Read Genesis: Artificial Intelligence, Hope and the Human Spirit by Henry Kissinger, Eric Schmidt and Craig Mundie

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What happens when a legendary NFL team partners with a tech giant to fuel regional innovation?

In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Jill Enos, Managing Partner at TitletownTech — the one-of-a-kind venture firm backed by the Green Bay Packers and Microsoft. Jill unpacks how TitletownTech is redefining early-stage investing by embedding startups directly into industry, education, and community. From AI labs and autonomous robotics to sustainable agtech and nuclear fusion, Jill reveals how the Midwest is quietly leading a new era of tech-driven economic development.

Listen to learn:

• How TitletownTech blends NFL roots with global tech leadership to drive innovation
• Why Microsoft chose Wisconsin for its new $3.3B data center and AI Co-Innovation Lab
• What makes the Midwest the perfect launchpad for startups solving real-world problems
• How venture-backed founders are tackling challenges in energy, logistics, and healthcare
• Why exposure to problems — not solutions — is the secret to educating tomorrow’s innovators

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Public-private partnerships can fuel real innovation
   TitletownTech was founded through a unique partnership between the Green Bay Packers and Microsoft, later joined by 25+ corporate investors like Schneider, Kohler, and AT&T. This model provides startups with not only capital but direct access to strategic partners, industry leaders, and market feedback that accelerates growth.
2. The Midwest is a powerful engine for emerging technologies
   TitletownTech has invested in over 30 companies, including Realta Fusion (nuclear energy), Fork Farms (agtech), GenLogs (freight intelligence), and Cobionics (healthcare robotics). Microsoft’s $3.3 billion data center in Mount Pleasant and the launch of the AI Co-Innovation Lab in partnership with UW-Milwaukee are cementing Wisconsin’s place as a tech and AI hub.
3. Solving the right problem matters more than having the right answer
   Jill Enos emphasizes that successful founders are “obsessed with the problem” rather than fixated on one solution — a mindset educators should instill in students. Startups like Springbok Analytics, which uses AI to create digital twins of MRIs, thrive by iterating solutions through real-time market feedback and strategic industry partnerships.

Resources in this Episode:
Learn more about TitletownTech: https://www.titletowntech.com/

Partnerships mentioned in this episode:

• AI Co-Innovation Lab (UWM + Microsoft + TitletownTech)
• Microsoft Data Center (listen to our conversation with Microsoft VP Mary Snapp)

Dive deeper into some of TitletownTech's portfolio companies that were featured in this episode:

• Fork Farms - Indoor hydroponics
• Cobionix - Heathcare robotics & autonomous ultrasounds
• GenLogs - Freight intelligence
• Realta Fusion

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The right mentor can totally change the college and career trajectory of a student. Today, we're exploring the power of mentorships through the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation.

Join former NASA astronaut Joe Tanner and current Astronaut Scholar Curtis Althaus as they dive into the powerful, and often overlooked, role mentorship plays in building tomorrow’s innovators.

Through their personal stories, you’ll hear how mentorship goes beyond simply offering advice. It’s about offering guidance in those pivotal moments—helping mentees navigate tough decisions, inspiring them to chase big dreams, and providing the type of insight that only years of experience can offer. Whether it’s choosing between two internships or deciding which research path to pursue, mentorship gives students the clarity and confidence they need to thrive.

The conversation also sheds light on why the mentorship experience is a two-way street. For Joe, it’s not just about imparting wisdom; it’s about building meaningful relationships that continue to shape both mentors and mentees long after the formal program ends. And for Curtis, being part of ASF isn’t just about the scholarship—it’s about becoming part of a dynamic community that challenges him to push boundaries and think bigger.

Listen to learn:

• Why mentorship in STEM isn’t just about academic guidance
• The unexpected ways mentorship creates clarity, confidence, and lifelong connections for both mentors and mentees
• How ASF’s mentorship program builds a community where learning, collaboration, and innovation go hand in hand
• What it means to be a part of a “family” of scholars who not only receive support but give it back as they grow
• The actionable insights Joe and Curtis share about navigating career decisions, embracing failure, and seizing unexpected opportunities

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Mentorship in STEM goes far beyond academics. Joe and Curtis share how their mentor/mentee relationship is far less about Joe advising Curtis on his academic journey, and far more about sharing a lifetime of wisdom to help Curtis with all aspects of life. It's a great reminder that you don't need to be an expert in the same field as a student to become their mentor.
2. Programs like ASF offer a lifelong community which can have long-reaching impact for students. Curtis shares how his ASF experience has evolved from academic support to a true "family" environment, where the community of scholars connects, learns from each other, and shares the same passions and big ideas. Getting involved in a community of peers - those with similar ideals and those with differing viewpoints - can have a huge impact on a student's life.
3. Brilliant people can come from anywhere. Credit to Curtis for this brilliant observation, but through his time at ASF he's met bright individuals from every background imaginable. Being open to new people and new experiences can create a much more wholistic life experience for young students.

Resources in this Episode:

Learn more about the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation, visit: www.astronautscholarship.org

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With tariffs back in the spotlight, what’s their real impact on trade, business, and jobs? Are they a necessary tool for protecting American industry, or do they do more harm than good?

This week, host Matt Kirchner sits down with John Murphy, Senior Vice President, Head of International for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, to break down the complex world of tariffs and trade policy. With decades of experience in global trade, John sheds light on the history, purpose, and unintended consequences of tariffs.

From manufacturing to agriculture, tariffs have ripple effects across industries, supply chains, and even the workforce. Who really pays the price when tariffs are imposed? How do they shape innovation and investment in the U.S.? And with shifting political winds in early 2025, is the U.S. moving toward a more protectionist future?

This conversation tackles these pressing questions while exploring what business leaders, policymakers, and even students should consider as they navigate the evolving trade landscape.

Listen to learn:

• How tariffs impact American manufacturing and the six million jobs tied to exports
• The surprising truth about who actually pays tariffs—and how they drive up costs
• When tariffs become a tool for political leverage rather than economic policy
• Why protectionism can stifle innovation instead of promoting domestic industries
• What today’s trade policies mean for the next generation of skilled workers

Resources in this Episode:

Learn more about the U.S. Chamber of Commerce: www.uschamber.com

Other resources mentioned in this episode:

• From The Wall Street Journal: "The New Plan for Western Companies Is ABC: ‘Anything But China’"
• Learn more about the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM)
• U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA)
• University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index

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Why do so many students (and adults) believe they “just aren’t good at math”? How can educators shift that mindset and build confidence in STEM learning?

In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Kathy Meyers, a veteran high school teacher who blends sports psychology with math instruction to help students overcome self-doubt, develop resilience, and master problem-solving—critical skills for both the classroom and the workforce.

Kathy shares how techniques used by elite athletes—positive self-talk, goal-setting, and focus strategies—can transform student outcomes in STEM education. From tackling math anxiety to fostering leadership and teamwork, she provides practical strategies that educators and parents can use to support student success.

Listen to learn:

• The role of self-talk, confidence, and mindset in learning math and technical subjects
• How Sudoku puzzles teach problem-solving and resilience from day one
• Why playing to win vs. playing not to lose matters in both sports and education
• How to help students reframe failure as growth in STEM classrooms
• Real-life stories of students who applied these lessons in college, careers, and beyond

The power of a positive mindset can completely change the trajectory of a student's life! Educators and leaders, these are great tools to instill in your classroom and workplace.

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Mindset Matters in Math and STEM

Students often struggle not because they lack ability, but because they believe they aren’t “math people.” Applying sports psychology techniques like positive self-talk and goal-setting helps reframe their approach to learning.

2. Failure is Part of the Learning Process

Just like in sports, students need a growth mindset to push through challenges. Teaching strategies like trying different problem-solving methods (as with Sudoku puzzles) encourages resilience and adaptability.

3. Confidence and Preparation Lead to Success

Whether it’s a test, a job interview, or a big presentation, students perform best when they train their minds like athletes—visualizing success, controlling self-doubt, and focusing on small, actionable steps.

Resources in this Episode:

View Kathy's YouTube channel with math tips & tricks!

Other resources:

• The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor
• Napoleon Hill books
• Norman Vincent Peale books
• Tony Robbins resources
• Rudy - A football movie about perseverance and goal-setting

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With sign-stealing scandals shaking Major League Baseball, the game needed a solution. Enter PitchCom, the cutting-edge communication technology that’s changing the way baseball is played.

In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with John Hankins, co-inventor and owner of PitchCom, to unpack the surprising origins of the technology (it was inspired by John's stage mentalism experience!), the innovative and unhackable tech that comprises the PitchCom system, and why it has completely changed the game of baseball. 

Beyond baseball, PitchCom is a case study in applied technology—how engineering, wireless communication, encryption, and even sound design can be used in unexpected ways. The lesson for educators? What your students learn in the technical education classroom—electronics, software, mechanics, and problem-solving—can lead to groundbreaking inventions in any arena.

Listen to learn:

• How stage mentalism, sound engineering, and encryption tech came together to create PitchCom
• How PitchCom reduced wild pitches to the lowest levels in MLB history and sped up game play by cutting down time lost to sign-calling
• Why PitchCom’s encryption is so secure that it’s mathematically impossible for teams to hack—more secure than the number of atoms in the universe
• How engineering students can apply their skills in creative industries—from sports tech to entertainment and beyond
• Why college baseball, the Canadian Football League, and even scuba diving are exploring this technology
• What future inventors need to know about turning ideas into patented, market-ready products

If you teach technical education or have students interested in technology, this episode is a must-listen. The next big innovation could come from your classroom!

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Innovation thrives in times of urgency and challenge.

PitchCom wasn’t just a cool idea—it was a solution to a crisis in baseball. The Houston Astros’ sign-stealing scandal created an undeniable need for secure communication, and John Hankins applied existing technology in a new way to fill that gap. Great inventions don’t start with ideas—they start with problems.

2. True innovation comes from blending different disciplines.

John’s background as an engineer, patent attorney, and stage mentalist gave him a unique perspective on communication and encryption. Whether it’s combining sports and tech, or magic and engineering, the biggest breakthroughs come from crossing industry boundaries and thinking outside traditional silos.

3. Data is the future of every industry.

PitchCom started as a tool to prevent sign-stealing, but now it’s unlocking new levels of player performance data—tracking pitch accuracy, command, and strategy in real time. From sports to manufacturing to education, those who understand and leverage real-time data insights will lead the future.

Resources in this Episode:

To learn more about PitchCom's technology, visit: pitchcom.com

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Venture capital is the engine behind many of the world’s most innovative startups—but only 2% of VC funding goes to women-led businesses. Why does this gap exist, and how do we fix it?

This week Matt sits down with Jennifer Abele and Raquel Filmanowicz, Founders and Managing Partners of VC 414, a firm dedicated to funding women, minority, veteran, and LGBTQ entrepreneurs. They break down how venture capital really works, what makes a startup investable, and how educators can help the next generation of founders succeed.

If you’re teaching entrepreneurship, mentoring young innovators, or just curious about how diverse startups get funded, this is a must-listen.

Listen to learn:

• How venture capital works and why so little funding goes to women and minority entrepreneurs.
• What makes a startup investable—from founder traits to market potential and exit strategies.
• The biggest mistakes first-time entrepreneurs make when pitching to investors.
• How AI, workforce development, and education startups are shaping the future of venture capital.
• Why technical skills alone aren’t enough—the key business skills founders need to secure funding.

3 Big Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Diverse founders face barriers—but also bring untapped potential.
   Only 2% of VC funding goes to women-led businesses, despite data showing they often outperform male-led startups. VC 414 is working to change this by providing early-stage funding and mentorship to underrepresented founders, particularly in workforce, education, government, health, and wealth.
2. The best founders are coachable, resourceful, and relentless.
   Investors look beyond ideas—they bet on people. VC 414 prioritizes grit, adaptability, and strong communication skills when selecting startups. A great founder can stretch $1, adapt to market changes, and take feedback without ego. Without these traits, even a promising idea can fail.
3. Education plays a critical role in developing future entrepreneurs.
   Technical education provides a strong foundation, but business acumen, networking, and problem-solving skills are just as crucial. Founders who lack access to networks and mentorship often struggle to raise capital, which is why VC 414 not only invests in startups but connects entrepreneurs to key industry relationships to accelerate their growth.

Resources in this Episode:

To learn more about VC 414, visit their site: vc414.com

Startups mentioned in this episode:

• Mastertech.ai
• Even
• Rex K-12

Are you an entrepreneur? Find out how to get connected with VC 414.

Connect with the VC 414 Online:

LinkedIn  |  Connect with Jennifer  |  Connect with Raquel

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