Dunwoody’s Senior Flexographic Instructor, Shawn Oetjen, is a finalist for the American Technical Education Association (ATEA) 2011 Outstanding Technical Teacher Award, which will be presented at the ATEA’s 48th National Conference on Technical Education later this month.
The award is given annually to an instructor whose performance and contributions to post-secondary technical education are exceptional and innovative.
Oetjen has taught in the Press and Finishing Technology Department at Dunwoody since 2007. He is the third Dunwoody instructor in the past three years to become a finalist for the award.
“In that short time, Shawn has made a significant impact on both the printing program and his students’ lives,” said G.W. Timmreck, printing and graphic design program manager and Oetjen’s nominator. “He has worked tirelessly at updating and upgrading the press curriculum to enhance the experience of our press students.”
Oetjen’s passion for the field is evident. He has become Level I and II certified by the Flexogaphic Technical Association, writes for industry trade publications and researches new print technologies. All that work and dedication then finds its way in to his teaching.
“Shawn’s support and enthusiasm fuels me as a student to get excited about what I’m doing and my future,” said second year printing student Mitch Hanson. “The classroom atmosphere is supportive, fun and focused with lots of visual aides to help students be able to touch and see examples.”
“It is an honor just to be nominated, but being one of the finalists is truly amazing,” said Oetjen. “It makes me so proud that I can help motivate and teach today’s students so they too can achieve their dreams.”
The ATEA conference will be held March 30-April 1, 2011, at the Crowne Plaza Riverfront in St. Paul. Dunwoody is hosting the event this year. More information can be found at ateaonline.org.