“There is a kind of magic in creating something from nothing, and it is a privilege that I get to pass this trick onto each student that enters my class. It is empowering and enriching to be part of that kind of journey and metamorphosis in a person’s life.”
Michael Driscoll teaches industrial technology at Bay View High School in Milwaukee, WI. He prides himself on being raised by “generations of makers,” his grandfather having been a self-taught handyman and his dad carrying on that legacy. Watching his father do hands-on work to improve every house their family lived in growing up, Driscoll learned that with the right tools and mindset, you can shape your world. Earning the rank of Eagle Scout also helped him grow as a builder. Early exposure to computers, the internet, and digital design graphics expanded his imagination. The amalgamation of these worlds turned Driscoll into a tradesman built for the 21st century—grounded in tradition, but driven by innovation. His creative drive led him to teaching graphic design early in his career, but a friendship with a woodshop teacher introduced him to CNC machines and laser cutters, sparking a pivot of blending creativity and technical skill.
Driscoll works daily in his program to shift his students’ perspective from that of a consumer to a thoughtful designer and maker. To do so, he teaches projects like comprehensive furniture design where students brainstorm a furniture product, develop CAD models, and construct prototypes. Each step engages students in hands-on construction, critical thinking, testing, and problem-solving. In his classroom, leadership means trusting students with high-end tools and complex challenges. Together, Driscoll and his students troubleshoot machines, teach each other, and develop systems for safety, storing materials, prototyping ideas, and sharing their work with the world. Driscoll has also built connections with local robotics, carpentry, and education groups to bring his students real-world insights, timely tips, and access to unique events and opportunities. Through developing a versatile set of essential skills, Driscoll aims to prepare his students for success in a variety of career paths. His students have collaborated on projects with major companies such as GE Healthcare, Rockwell Engineering & Kiwi Co. in recent years. Whether they become electricians, engineers, machinists, or designers, they leave his program ready to think critically, solve creatively, and work with determination.
Notes of Excellence
- Driscoll created a custom classroom chatbot named Mr. D., trained to mimic his teaching style and support students when he is working one-on-one with another classmate.
- His Engineering Academy was recognized in 2024 with the Katherine Blasik Distinguished Level Academy designation—the highest honor a NAF program can achieve.
- Students in Driscoll’s program have been selected for the highly competitive WE Energies Youth Apprenticeship Program two years in a row.