Debbie Dawson-Gunther, P.E., M.S. MCC Automation & Industrial Technology Instructor maintains high standards for her students.

Debbie Dawson-Gunther, P.E., M.S., enjoys “watching the light bulb go on” when her students understand a new concept.

Dawson-Gunther joined Montcalm Community College’s full-time faculty as its Automation & Industrial Technology Instructor in January 2019, after teaching as a part-time instructor at the college. Since then, she has revised automation curriculum while teaching automation classes and works in the skilled trades open lab on MCC’s Greenville campus. She also continues to revise technical programs to provide students with opportunities to earn industry credentials including Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA), American Welding Society (AWS), and National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS).

“An educator is responsible for creating an environment that is conducive to learning – a place where students are able to turn ideas, theories and concepts into practical skills,” Dawson-Gunther said. “In the technical arena, this environment must also provide students with foundational knowledge and the desire for lifelong learning in order to meet the changing needs in industry.”

With nearly 30 years of industry and teaching experience, Dawson-Gunther said she has had the unique opportunity to contribute to the shaping of society and the future.

“As a professional engineer, I place an emphasis on my own professional development allowing me to enhance curriculum and provide service with the most relevant industry knowledge possible,” she said. “As an educator, I have developed and delivered relevant programs to meet both student and industry needs.

“I maintain high standards for my students,” she said. “It is important that I help them learn how to learn, how to effectively solve problems and how to judge the long-range impact of their solutions and recommendations on society.

“I challenge them in ways that will benefit them and provide a sense of accomplishment,” she added.