Awesome Adjunct: Professor Walker Shontese’s inspiring STEM journey

Instructor Walker Shontese’s journey from engineering to mathematics education exemplifies resilience, adaptability and a deep commitment to student success. 

Her story not only highlights personal transformation but also underscores the profound impact educators can have on shaping the aspirations of young learners, particularly in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Before transitioning to education, Shontese pursued a career in engineering. She began as a user interface engineer at AT&T in Georgia, designing graphical user interfaces for telecommunications systems. Later, she worked as human factors engineer, developing cockpit interfaces for fighter jets and cargo planes. 

Years later, teaching came calling and captured her heart. Shontese’s engineering background provided her with a solid foundation in problem-solving and analytical thinking. Skills she now imparts to her students.

After several years in the engineering field and with a growing family, Shontese decided to shift her focus to education. She began teaching mathematics part-time at the International College of Broadcasting, eventually applying for a position at Sinclair College. 

Despite initial challenges in securing a spot to teach at Sinclair, her persistence paid off after several attempts over a two year period, and she began teaching at Sinclair in the fall of 2024. Shontese described this transition as a calling by a higher power.

“I felt like it was divine intervention… I was supposed to be here; this was my time. In my first class, I was nervous but within five minutes … I felt at ease and at peace because I knew this was where I was supposed to be,” Shontese said.

Shontese thrives on student moments of breakthrough especially for those who begin to be afraid of math. She sees teaching and life through a lens focused on growth.

“I still get goosebumps when students have that ‘aha’ moment…Those are the best days. You grow through challenges … every struggle is an opportunity for improvement,” Shontese said.

Even in moments of difficulty, Shontese learns and always asks how she can better support a student or communicate a concept.

At Sinclair, Shontese has made a significant impact on her students. She emphasizes the importance of understanding over memorization and strives to create an inclusive learning environment where all students feel valued and capable.

Her approach has led to numerous success stories, with students reaching out for recommendations and expressing gratitude for her guidance.

Shontese’s dedication extends beyond the classroom. Outside the classroom, she is a competitive bodybuilder and shuttles her daughter to soccer tournaments. She also jokes about parking an RV outside her daughter’s dorm while teaching online as she begins her freshman year in college.

“I hope I’m still here at Sinclair … inspiring students and encouraging them to be their own advocates,” Shontese said.

She is also actively working towards a full-time instructor role, aiming to continue inspiring and motivating students to pursue their academic and professional goals. To students, she offers this advice:

“Do what makes you happy in the moment. Set goals, but don’t carve them in stone. Life is dynamic … veering off course doesn’t make you a failure,” Shontese said.

Her greatest inspiration comes from students who may not speak at first, but whose faces light up when they understand.

“Those are the students who challenge me … and remind me why I became an educator,” Shontese said.

As an educator with a background in engineering, Shontese serves as a powerful role model for all students, demonstrating that with determination and guidance, they too can succeed in STEM fields.

Shontese’s journey reflects what research shows about the importance of female role models in STEM: Girls who see women succeed in science and math feel empowered to imagine themselves in those fields. 

Like notable STEM educators such as Anne‑Marie Imafidon and Sarah Chapman, who co-founded programs to inspire girls across Europe and Australia. Shontese embodies what is possible when passion meets purpose.

At Sinclair, Shontese’s story proves that STEM is not just for engineers in labs. Instead, it is for those who teach, guide and empower others. Young girls seeing her in the classroom may just be the next generation of STEM trailblazers.

Maliya Ayambrie, reporter

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