Choosing a path of authenticity in one’s life
sometimes requires a change of careers. It takes courage, tenacity and
determination to change the course of one’s life to embark on a path that
aligns with one’s purpose and goals.
T.J. Saddler was working as a supervisor in a
glass plant when he decided to become a dedicated science teacher. He is
the author of Corning Incorporated to Education: A Tale of Two Careers as
Planet Earth Turns.
Julia: How did you take the leap? What inspired you to do
so? How did it happen?
T.J. Saddler: While working at Corning Incorporated, I was
sidelined and placed on a list ensuring I would never work again, as a result
of systemic racism. This painful experience ultimately led me to reevaluate my
purpose. Around the same time, I learned that industrial managers were being
encouraged to transition into teaching roles.
While substituting in the science department
at a local high school, a fellow teacher informed me of a summer teaching
program in New Hampshire that could help me secure a teaching license. This
encouragement, combined with my passion for education, solidified my decision
to pursue a new career. I vividly recall a second-grader’s excitement when I
substituted in his classroom, exclaiming joyfully that he had a male teacher
for the day. This moment confirmed my calling to inspire the next generation,
which I delve into my book.
Julia: What is your book about? What is its purpose?
T.J. Saddler: My book, Corning Incorporated to Education: A Tale of
Two Careers as Planet Earth Turns, weaves together emotional anecdotes from two
distinct careers. It begins with my experiences at Corning Incorporated, where
I faced profound challenges, including an encounter with over forty KKK members
who threatened my life. The story transitions into my courageous pivot to
education, where I found purpose in teaching science to the next generation.
The book’s purpose is to inspire readers to
pursue their passions, embrace career transitions, and face adversity with
faith, resilience, and determination. Through these personal stories, I hope to
encourage others to find meaning in their own journeys.
Julia: What makes your book unique?
T.J. Saddler: My book is unique because it offers a deeply personal
perspective, starting from my upbringing at age two through my educational and
professional journeys. It shares vivid stories from my time at a global Fortune
500 company and various educational settings, from kindergarten to
post-graduate classrooms.
Additionally, the book
explores broader themes such as labor rights, education, and the societal
challenges of systemic racism. It blends these insights with engaging
storytelling that read like a novel, making it accessible and relatable to a
wide audience.
Julia: Did you have to deal with judgments from
others in the process of making the change? What obstacles did you have to deal
with?
T.J. Saddler: Yes, I faced significant judgment and
rejection when transitioning into teaching. Despite being a qualified
industrial manager responding to calls for managers to enter classrooms, I was
twice denied opportunities in the local school system. On my third attempt, I
was offered a substitute teaching position, despite objections from some staff
members.
These challenges only
strengthened my resolve. My story reflects the resilience needed to overcome
societal barriers, financial hurdles, and the doubts while staying true to my
purpose.
Julia: What
are the greatest challenges you face as a science teacher? What topics do you
teach?
T.J. Saddler: One of my greatest challenges was
completing the rigorous teacher certification program at Franklin Pierce University,
which I finished in nine months. Classroom management also required innovation,
as I developed techniques like comprehension maps to engage students and ensure
understanding. These tools were later adopted by fellow teachers, and I was
recognized with an award for my successful teaching methods.
I taught general
science, natural science, earth science, biology, chemistry, and honors
chemistry. I found the greatest comfort in teaching chemistry and honors
chemistry, as my passion for the subject was unmatched. I used diverse teaching
methods, including field trips, hands-on experiments, and tailored lesson plans
to accommodate short attention spans, ensuring an engaging learning environment
for all my students.
Julia: What do you love the most about working
as a science teacher?
T.J. Saddler: What I love most about teaching is seeing
students experience “aha” moments-when they finally grasp a challenging concept
or see the relevance of science in their everyday lives. Inspiring curiosity
and critical thinking while fostering a love of discovery makes teaching deeply
rewarding. My greatest joy comes from knowing I’m shaping the next generation
to think analytically and contribute meaningfully to society.
Julia: Would
you like to add anything else about the book?
T.J. Saddler: After facing adversity at the high school,
which became a toxic place to continue teaching, I embarked on new teaching
adventures. I transitioned to a private school, provided personalized support,
and eventually rekindled my love for teaching at a local Job Corps Center.
These diverse experiences allowed me to reimagine my teaching style and focus
on student empowerment.
My book reflects on my time at a global
Fortune 500 company and these teaching adventures, offering a unique
perspective on overcoming adversity, embracing change, and finding purpose.
It’s a story of resilience and hope that I hope will inspire readers to
persevere through their own challenges.
