Classroom to Career: Connecting Students with Real-World STEM Opportunities

What's it really like teaching science in a rapidly changing world? What happens when technology evolves faster than the curriculum? And how can teachers bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world STEM careers?

In today’s episode of This Educational Life, host Mariah Presley, Industry and Programs Lead at Trane, sits down with Adam Krug, a high school chemistry teacher in Kansas who swapped the lab coat for the classroom almost two decades ago. Today, Adam’s challenge is about preparing students for careers many haven't even imagined yet, and how industry collaborations can help reconnect students with practical, hands-on experiences.

In this episode we discuss: 

• How teachers stay ahead when technology evolves faster than textbooks.
• Why Adam believes curiosity, creativity, and comfort with complexity are essential skills for today's students.
• How industry collaboration can help in showcasing real-world STEM careers
• Practical ideas for STEM teachers looking to innovate without breaking their budgets.

Let us know your thoughts! How is your school preparing students for a changing world and career that might not exist yet? Email us at [e-mail] and make sure to follow This Educational Life for new episodes every two weeks.

Let’s continue redefining what's possible in education, together.

What is This Educational Life?

Welcome to This Educational Life by Trane, a podcast that explores the challenges and triumphs of Superintendents and educators in K-12 education.

A school is more than just four walls and a roof – it’s an impactful learning tool for students. Taking on the challenge of improving educational facilities today and leaving them better is no easy task, that’s why we’re putting together a blueprint for the school of tomorrow.

We're looking at pioneering school districts who transform school buildings with sustainable, green solutions, saving millions of dollars through more energy-efficient infrastructure. All the while giving students access to new skill development opportunities and a safer, more comfortable environment. Get ready for thought-provoking conversations with educational leaders across the country.

In this season, we take on the most pressing issues facing K-12 education and explore how innovative solutions are creating better learning environments. We drill into each obstacle, and understand the step-by-step actions taken to overcome it. From decarbonizing school facilities to unlocking thousands in educational grants and utility incentives, we showcase practical, real-world actions that are improving school operations and leaving lasting impacts.

Hosted by Mariah Presley, Education and Industry Programs Leader for Trane, Mariah brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for innovation and growth. Each episode features real stories from Superintendents and educational leaders who’ve faced and overcome challenges. You hear how they secured federal grants, improved career pathways in STEM, and created sustainable systems that ensure schools continue to thrive for generations to come. And, we hear directly from the students about how these solutions are shaping their education and opening doors for the future.

This Educational Life turns big challenges into practical solutions, offering a blueprint that not only addresses today’s problems but also sets schools up for long-term success. It’s not just about designing the school of the future—it’s about solving problems today so future generations can inherit schools that are better, stronger, and more sustainable.

Tune in every two weeks to This Educational Life, where together, we’re creating the schools of the future, today.