“The learning culture I cultivate revolves around compassion, respect, responsibility, and teamwork. I prioritize creating a compassionate environment where students feel valued, supported, and understood. I make it clear to them that I care about their well-being, both academically and personally. By showing empathy and understanding, I foster a sense of belonging and safety, which is crucial for effective learning.”
For over two decades, Chris Glinski has taught industrial technology at West De Pere High School in De Pere, WI. Inspired by his parents who were both passionate educators, he has long had a desire to share knowledge and expertise with aspiring tradespeople and empower them to reach their goals. Glinski earned a Bachelor of Science in Technology Education from University of Wisconsin-Stout and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Silver Lake College, as well as several certifications in Solidworks, AutoDesk, and Fanuc. Additionally, Glinski worked for construction and excavating contractors during college and in the initial years of teaching to provide a foundation for his pedagogy. As a licensed general contractor, Glinski ensures that his knowledge remains current and refreshed, while also enriching his teaching practice with the latest industry advancements and best practices.
In his industrial technology program and role as CTE department head, Glinski aims to provide them with the skills to thrive in any field, and empowers students to pursue diverse pathways upon graduation, whether they choose to enter the workforce, pursue apprenticeships, or go to college. He set up his classroom as a professional workspace, where professionalism, punctuality, teamwork, and respecting deadlines are non-negotiables. His West De Pere Occupational Research and Exploration (WORX) is a class that is co-taught with trades professionals who work directly with students in the classroom in areas including masonry, structural steel, excavation and drywall.. In addition to career-ready skills, he also emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and discusses budgeting, saving, and investing. Glinski continues his own education and skills through training programs such as Fanuc, HAAS, and GoEngineer webinars and trainings; and attending classes at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College. He regularly assesses the quality of his instruction and asks his students to provide feedback and adjusts his lessons and strategies based on their recommendations. Glinski has built many long-lasting relationships with his students and former students return to assist in class, collaborate on projects, or speak about the bonds they’ve formed in his class.
Notes of Excellence:
- Glinski was previously nominated for the Wisconsin Technology Education Association Educator of the Year and the Kohl Fellowship, and was a finalist for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.
- Glinski’s program offers opportunities to earn University of Wisconsin system credits through institutions such as the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay or Northeast Wisconsin Technical College.
- West De Pere students involved in a trades program typically score an average of three points higher on the ACT than their peers.
- He is deeply immersed in his community, coaching JV/Varsity Soccer and for the Fire Soccer Club, serving as a volunteer firefighter and Assistant Chief for the Little Suamico Fire Department, and volunteering for the Pulaski Theater program.