Illinois State University Technology and Engineering Education Program Earns STEM School of Excellence Recognition
The Technology and Engineering Education program in the Department of Technology at Illinois State University has been recognised as a 2025–26 STEM School of Excellence by the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA). This prestigious designation represents the highest level of recognition awarded by the association, honouring institutions that demonstrate exceptional commitment to delivering comprehensive and integrative STEM education.
Announced in December 2025, the recognition places Illinois State among a select group of institutions nationwide that are considered leaders in preparing future STEM educators. Award recipients were evaluated based on the quality of faculty, student achievement, professional engagement, and measurable national impact. The distinction highlights the university’s sustained efforts to innovate in teacher preparation and elevate the standards of technology and engineering education.
According to Dr Joshua Brown, chair of the Department of Technology, the program stands out as the only one of its kind in Illinois specifically dedicated to preparing middle school and high school educators specialising in technology and engineering education. This unique focus addresses a critical need in K-12 education, where qualified STEM teachers are essential to equipping students with the skills required for a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world.
The curriculum at Illinois State offers a broad and integrated STEM foundation. Coursework spans multiple disciplines, including manufacturing, engineering, biotechnology, construction, and design. Rather than teaching these subjects in isolation, the program emphasises applied learning, interdisciplinary connections, and real-world problem-solving. Students engage in hands-on projects and interactive processes that mirror professional industry practices, ensuring they graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical teaching expertise.
A defining strength of the program is its strong emphasis on experiential learning. Students are not confined to university classrooms; they actively collaborate with local public schools, gaining valuable real-world teaching experience before graduation. This community engagement enhances their instructional confidence and prepares them to manage diverse classroom environments effectively. Such immersive exposure ensures that graduates are classroom-ready and capable of inspiring the next generation of innovators.
The STEM School of Excellence designation from ITEEA reflects both student engagement and faculty excellence. Faculty members contribute through research, professional leadership, and active involvement in national education initiatives. Their mentorship and academic rigour create an environment where students are encouraged to excel academically and professionally.
This recognition not only celebrates the accomplishments of the Department of Technology but also reinforces Illinois State University’s broader mission to advance high-quality education and workforce readiness. By preparing highly skilled educators who can deliver integrative STEM instruction, the program plays a vital role in strengthening STEM education at the secondary level.
As STEM disciplines continue to shape global industries and innovation, institutions like Illinois State University are ensuring that tomorrow’s educators are equipped to lead classrooms with confidence, creativity, and technical expertise.
