Author: Thomas Liu

Q: So, tell us more about yourself. How did you end up working in education?

Early in my career, I struggled knowing where I wanted to focus my career – I explored nursing, sociology, and international development, among other fields. Shortly after college, I looked back on all my work experiences to date (professional, internship, and volunteer experiences) and noticed a trend that many of my roles were in education. I realized that these roles were where I felt the most fulfillment. Upon this little self-epiphany I dove into the field of education and started a role in international education as well as volunteering as an English language teacher. A short time later, I earned a master’s in international education. I now bring all this experience with me to TechChange where I get to work internationally to design and deliver engaging, interactive learning experiences that have a positive impact.

Q: How did you first hear about TechChange?

I first heard about TechChange from a former supervisor and mentor who encouraged me to follow Nick Martin on LinkedIn because he is so active in sharing resources and professional development opportunities on LinkedIn. When I started exploring the role of Senior Account Manager, I quickly learned that not only is Nick Martin a great person to follow on LinkedIn but also about the amazing work TechChange does. I knew I wanted to be a part of the effort.

Q: What are some of your favorite parts of working at TechChange so far?

I love the commitment to a supportive and collaborative work environment where everyone feels empowered to share their voice. I am also amazed by the wonderful work we do. Through TechChange, I get to support impactful organizations doing work such as helping strong women leaders achieve gender equality in leadership and improving learning experiences for those working in AgTech. 

Q: What excites you about this role?

I’m excited to help bring TechChange’s online learning model and platform into new sectors such as agriculture. I am also excited to work with such wonderful people both at TechChange and with our partners!

Q: Anything you look forward to working on or learning at TechChange?

TechChange has really put themselves forward in designing and delivering engaging online learning. There is so much potential for remote learning including reaching diverse populations that normally may not have had the means or ability to attend an in-person training. I am looking forward to applying the TechChange methods, tools, and strategies for effective online learning to help partners achieve their unique and individualized learning goals.

Q: Lastly, what’s something that not a lot of people know about you?

I grew up on a small family farm and my first pet was a lamb. I have a strong appreciation for nature and dream of one day having my own farm with chickens and maybe some goats!

Q: So, tell us more about yourself. 

I studied a number of foreign languages in college. Eventually, my love of spoken language led to an interest in computer languages, and a career shift into tech swiftly followed. At the core of what drives me, though, is a deep-seated belief that education is a primary solution to many of the social, economic, and ideological challenges that plague our world today. I also believe that, with the right tools and guidance, all people are capable of making small but effective choices that can ultimately reduce suffering in the world and make our communities safer and more equitable places to be.

Q: How did you first hear about TechChange?

When I first started applying for software engineering jobs, I knew I either wanted to work in edtech or for a company in the social change/impact sector. I never dreamed I would be lucky enough to get both! So when I heard back from TechChange and kept getting advanced through the interview process, I almost didn’t believe it was real. I am so glad that TechChange welcomed me into the work they are doing, and it feels like a true privilege to be a part of the team here.

Q: What are some of your favorite parts of working at TechChange so far?

My career and life have not always followed a very straightforward trajectory, but I’m grateful for the experiences I’ve had and am so happy with where I have ended up. It’s really resonated with me to see the diverse background of so many of the employees at TechChange and to see the CEO actively encouraging the people in his sphere of influence to reject the stigma associated with taking a little more time to find your path. The leadership here recognizes that those of us who have needed to take a long way or who have a nonlinear work history contribute to the diversity of perspectives that makes the work at TechChange all the more inclusive and effective. Being among such people, in addition to the shared values and goals of social change, really makes me feel like I’m somewhere I belong.

Q: What excites you about this role?

Coming into the position as a brand new software engineer, I was acutely aware that I would have a lot to learn on the job. However, I did not expect that I would get to work in an environment where my relative newness to the field wouldn’t actively devalue me. I am so tremendously grateful that my work ethic, potential, and commitment are recognized and invested in and that learning and growth are built into the role. Being intentionally given the space to ask honest questions, receive meaningful guidance, and prioritize deep learning over frenzied productivity when needed has instilled me with a new level of confidence and motivation. TechChange, a company built around empowering people with education opportunities, has shown me that this value applies not only to their clients but also to their employees. 

Q: Anything you look forward to working on or learning at TechChange in the next year?

Working at TechChange opens up a huge opportunity to connect with organizations doing meaningful education and impact work that I otherwise might have never known about. In a world where the news cycle is dominated by the worst events of the week, I’m especially looking forward to being regularly reminded of all the good going on in the world and to connecting myself to the change makers, helpers, revolutionaries, and advocates making a difference every day. I’m excited to get to contribute to their efforts, even in small ways, with my daily work at TechChange. 

Q: Lastly, what’s something that not a lot of people know about you?

I’m surprisingly risk averse for someone who’s seemingly done a lot of things to keep my mother up at night. I’ve paraglided in the French Alps and gone spelunking in Mammoth Cave. I’ve lived in foreign countries and have had close encounters with sharks, stingrays, and more. I’ve free solo climbed cliffs and lived with survivors of human trafficking. I’ve had these experiences not because I’m impulsive or fearless but because I’m committed to “doing it scared” if it’s something that really matters or something that will make my life or the lives of others richer and better, to doing important things even when I’m uncomfortable or facing significant obstacles Deep down, though, I’m far from an adrenaline thrill chaser. What I really love is a calm and quiet night in with a good book and a cup of tea and would happily choose that any day I can!

Q: So, tell us more about yourself. How did you end up working in education? 

My grandparents immigrated to the United States from India and they always emphasized the importance of education to my brother and me. I also have a few teachers in my family, so when I decided to pursue a degree in International Relations, I was interested in the intersection of development and education.

In my first job I worked with international students seeking attendance at U.S. universities. I enjoyed being able to help others achieve their educational goals! In my next position, I continued with that theme in mind while working on a virtual exchange program that connected ESL teachers globally to professional development courses and webinars. Being able to work with and learn from English educators all over the world has been a highlight of my career so far. 

Q: How did you first hear about TechChange?

I actually found TechChange while researching instructional design fellowships. I am so glad that I did because I was excited to find a company committed to the power of online education and events! This intersection matched perfectly to the work I’ve done in the past working in online learning and professional development. 

Q: What are some of your favorite parts of working at TechChange so far?

My favorite part of working at TechChange so far is how technology is openly embraced and utilized. That may seem like an obvious answer however, I had the opportunity of working with online courses before and after the pandemic started. Seeing virtual learning and gathering change from an “option” to a “necessity” due to the pandemic was powerful. I’ve seen first hand that technology can make courses and events more accessible and inclusive. I’m so excited to be a part of that at TechChange.

Q: What excites you about this role?

I’m excited about the opportunity to see events from so many different and important topic areas come to life. I am also excited about the great co-workers I have met during my onboarding process. It has been very enriching to be surrounded by others passionate about the power of virtual learning and events.

Q: Anything you look forward to working on or learning at TechChange in the next year?

I’m looking forward to learning more about hybrid event execution. I’ve seen in my past experience how powerful it is to offer a seat at the table to those who cannot physically be in the room whether it is due to accessibility or travel expenses. The idea of a hybrid option excites me because it marries the power of in person interaction with the inclusiveness of virtual events. I’m very interested in seeing how events will operate as the world starts to open up. 

Q: Lastly, what’s something that not a lot of people know about you?

As much as connecting with people online fuels my work, I am a true introvert through and through! I really thrive when I have a good balance of connecting and unplugging. It is so important to me to have alone time to reset and recharge. When I’m spending time by myself I like to go on walks, knit, and take care of my plants.

Q: So, tell us more about yourself. How did you end up working in education? 

I come from a family of educators. Both of my parents were teachers and I’ve known from a very young age that I wanted to work in education. After college, I started my career in education as an academic advisor, and I’ve been working in learning spaces ever since. I worked several years in Student Affairs serving in academic advising and student success roles, and eventually transitioned into Faculty Success and Learning and Development (L&D). I love what I do. At heart, I’m a learner, and one of the many benefits of working in the education field is that you’re always learning and surrounding yourself with like-minded people who love to learn and teach.

Q: How did you first hear about TechChange?

I have a Ph.D. in Conflict Resolution Studies and have been following social impact conversations on social media for a while. I first learned about TechChange through LinkedIn and TechChange’s CEO Nick Martin’s #NickatNoon posts. 

Q: What are some of your favorite parts of working at TechChange so far?

I’m always curious about how technology can be leveraged to teach more effectively and in more engaging ways, and so far my favorite part about working at TechChange is learning about how TechChange uses technology to enhance online learning experiences.

I also really enjoy how much my coworkers love games and game design, and using gamification techniques to create learning experiences that are both fun and innovative. As a person who loves board games, card games, and video games, I really feel like I’ve found my people.

Q: What excites you about this role?

It’s important for me to do good in the world and to find fulfilling roles that contribute to change in a positive way. I think that’s what attracted me to the education field in the first place and what ultimately led me to TechChange. At TechChange, I feel like I’m making a difference by building training experiences for organizations and people who make a positive impact every day. To me, that’s incredible! Just the thought of that provides so much meaning, knowing that the work that I do can make a positive difference in the world around me. 

Q: Anything you look forward to working on or learning at TechChange in the next year?

We really live in an exciting time in education and I believe remote learning has opened up so much potential for building better and creative ways to learn and train virtually. Online education has come a long way in the last ten years, and has accelerated exponentially in the last two. TechChange was an early adopter of this potential and built a teaching philosophy around the strengths of online learning. That teaching philosophy really resonated with me and I’m really looking forward to using TechChange’s methods, tools, and technologies to develop virtual experiences that are unique and customized for our partners. 

Q: Lastly, what’s something that not a lot of people know about you?

I love trivia. I’m not great at trivia or good enough to be a contestant on Jeopardy, but I love it because I always learn something new. Before the pandemic, I used to play trivia with my friends about once a week at local spots in the San Diego area. After the pandemic, I found online trivia, and it quickly became one of my favorite things to do to connect with family and friends. I still play trivia with my friends at least once a month and highly recommend Trivia Galaxy on Twitch. The trivia host is outstanding and donates funds regularly to non-profit organizations. 

Q: So, tell us more about yourself. How did you end up working in tech?

I spent my first career in Investment Banking. I always knew it wasn’t a good fit. I wanted to do something else, but wasn’t sure where to start. I partnered with IT on a project written in Python, which inspired me to explore programming. Once I started, I immediately fell in love. I found solving complex problems extremely rewarding and enjoyed the element of always learning something new.

Q: How did you first hear about TechChange?

I first heard about TechChange through the Recurse Center. After reading numerous job postings, TechChange stood out to me because their job listing read, “you could work at top tech companies, but making a difference in the world is more important to you”. That line deeply resonated with me and I knew immediately that I’d found the place for me.  It’s important to me to spend my time and energy leaving things better than I found them. I’m excited to wake up each day knowing my work has a positive impact on the world, and  love knowing that I work alongside people who share a similar mindset.

Q: What are some of your favorite parts of working at TechChange so far?

The positive attitudes and humility. Everyone is excited and passionate about what they do, which shows in their work. Colleagues are willing to lend a hand and share their knowledge. I feel appreciated and trust that my work is viewed as important. Failure is encouraged. Slowing down to learn is prioritized over delivery.

Also…the commute! I love working from home and having the ability to curate an environment that works for me. I am more productive when I have access to my kitchen where I can prepare healthy meals, and when I can take a break to walk around my neighborhood.

Q: What excites you about this role?

I’m excited about the emphasis on psychological safety. I feel strongly that long-term success requires sustainable efforts. Rather than the focus being on completing tasks as fast as possible, I’m encouraged to take the time I need to learn, take breaks, or shift gears if needed. I am viewed as a whole person who has obligations outside of work. I’ve found that having a proper self-care routine helps me thrive in the workplace.

Q: Anything you look forward to working on or learning at TechChange in the next year?

I’m looking forward to improving my skills as a developer and leaving my banking culture behind! My colleagues’ backgrounds in education shine through with a strong emphasis on pedagogy, which speaks to me and my method of thinking. I’m confident I will succeed because of the support network available to me. I’m thrilled to learn from the role models I’ve found at TechChage and continue to grow.

Q: Lastly, what’s something that not a lot of people know about you?

I’m super shy. Most people who know me seem surprised when they learn that I am an introvert who struggles with social anxiety and small talk. I’ve pushed my comfort zone my whole life, especially during my time managing multiple teams. After absorbing all I could from this experience, I’m on a journey to embrace my true nature and utilize the strengths of my natural temperament. My true happy place is thinking quietly and solving problems, sprinkled with philosophical discussions and meaningful connection.

Brittany is a Senior Account Manager with TechChange, where she supports the design and implementation of engaging virtual workshops. Prior to coming to TechChange, Brittany worked with students and teachers throughout the DMV area, managing transformative learning experiences that centered students in dynamic professional and personal development. When not working, Brittany enjoys exploring––just about anything and everything, either in a book or in the world.

Q: So, tell us more about yourself. How did you end up working in Education?

I had always been a pretty quiet kid. But in my final two summers of high school, I signed up to be a docent at our local zoo; I ended up spending hours standing outside the animal exhibits talking to visitors, sharing information, asking questions, and teaching about conservation efforts. I fell in love with the dynamism that the position offered, where everyday I had the opportunity to share my passions and excitement with the zoo’s visitors. I’d always loved learning; as a docent, I realized how naturally that love of learning transferred to a love of teaching. Since those summers, my long-term trajectory has always been directed towards a career in education, and I eventually plan to teach high school English. 

Q: How did you first hear about TechChange?

I was seeking new professional opportunities when I came across the job posting on LinkedIn. I was thrilled when, upon looking into the company, I found the TechChange Education Model; its emphasis on lifelong learning and the need to intentionally inject joy into all educational experiences are core beliefs I also hold. My excitement only increased when, upon starting the application, I found that TechChange asked for a non-traditional cover letter; it’s a small thing, but I value companies that provide opportunities for creativity and try to remove the formal structures—such as the format of a traditional cover letter—that otherwise inhibit one’s ability to more deeply know people.

Q: What are some of your favorite parts of working at TechChange so far?

There are many things I love about working at TechChange, but first and foremost are the people. My colleagues at TechChange consistently wow me; not only highly creative and quick to solve problems, they are also passionate about what they do and compassionate in every interaction—whether that interaction is with another colleague, a client, or one of our many course and workshop participants. But TechChange does something kind of amazing in that it not only attracts and finds amazing staff; it also attracts and finds amazing partners. I’ve really appreciated the opportunity to work with so many inspiring people, doing such a vast array of inspiring work.

Q: What excites you about this role?

I’m always excited by the chance to learn new things, and in this role I’m always learning. Because each project is so different—with unique topics, new learners, and specific needs—the opportunities to innovate, explore, and learn are constant. 

Q: Anything you look forward to working on or learning at TechChange in the next year?

It’s been incredible to watch—and be part of—the company’s growth over this past year; from new team members and partners to new processes and ideas, I have loved both witnessing this transformation, and I’ve loved being a part of it and contributing to it. It’s clear that TechChange is poised to continue growing in the new year, further refining our services to ensure we can bring even greater value to those with whom we work. I’m looking forward to being part of this continued growth—as well as, of course, continuing to grow myself.  

Q: Lastly, what’s something that not a lot of people know about you?

Though an introvert, I love meeting new people and having spontaneous conversations with strangers! While hiking and traveling in France, I loved hitchhiking and couchsurfing because it provided me with the opportunity to meet new people from all walks of life. 

Please join us in welcoming Samantha Remeika to the TechChange team as the new Vice President of Partner Success!!

Samantha is an experienced leader of customer success, professional services, and support with a demonstrated history of hands-on leadership growing diverse global teams through structure, process, and industry KPIs.

She has partnered with a broad range of foundation, government, NGO, and education customers enabling organizations to support their missions through technology.

In her previous role as Vice President of Customer Success & Support, Samantha led a team of 50+ employees in supporting three product lines, increasing annual recurring revenue by 10%, satisfaction scores by 20% and doubling the upsell target.

Samantha holds an MPA from the School of International Affairs at Columbia University where she was a SIPA Fellow and a BA from Tulane University.

Maggie is an Account Manager with TechChange, where she works with partners to develop memorable eLearning experiences. Prior to joining TechChange, Maggie cultivated action-oriented workshops and conferences for social purpose organizations across North America using her skills as a visual notetaker and design thinking facilitator. Maggie has lived in France and Canada, obtaining her B.A. in International Relations from the University of British Columbia. 

Q: So, tell us more about yourself. How did you end up working in education?

From a young age, I saw education as a daily practice where our peers and neighbors are some of our best teachers. I particularly paid attention to opinions and experiences that were different from my own, which led me to live and study abroad and pursue a degree in International Relations at the University of British Columbia. I wanted to make sense of the world around me, knowing that change happens collectively. One of the vital components to sustainable change in our interconnected world is discussing with and listening to each other – learning from our neighbors. I found that my most helpful contribution to these conversations was to include a diversity of perspective and learning styles by visualizing key themes as they occur. As a graphic facilitator, I use these skills in virtual settings to create interactive visual summaries that show collective impact in accessible and digital formats. It is my goal to support the practice of life-long learning as a way to solve our world’s most pressing challenges.

Q: How did you first hear about TechChange?

It was pretty surreal. Back in 2019, I attended the Social Enterprise World Forum in Ethiopia and met the folks behind an Australian-based podcast called Impact Boom. I was listening to an episode one morning recently, and the guest was Nick Martin. He talked about TechChange, and I found myself thinking “this is the kind of social enterprise that I could only dream of working with.” After taking a deep dive into TechChange’s work, I saw that they were hiring for a position that spoke to my skills and interests, and I just had a gut feeling that it was something I had to go for.

Q: What are some of your favorite parts of working at TechChange so far?

The TechChange team is pretty incredible. I feel so supported and inspired by everyone! There’s also this balance of continuous learning between team members and autonomy. We trust each other to get things done, but there are opportunities for collaboration built into our work. I really appreciate that TechChange lives out this notion that people thrive as life-long learners, especially in this digital age. 

Q: What excites you about this role?

There is nothing more exciting than witnessing lightbulb moments. I love supporting the people behind complex and impactful social movements, bringing clarity to their visions. As an Account Manager with TechChange, I look forward to using my unique toolkit of visual thinking, facilitation, and connecting with diverse groups of people to empower our partners to make an even bigger impact in our communities.

Q: Anything you look forward to working on or learning at TechChange in the next year?

I’m fortunate to be able to learn from the best and brightest at TechChange. While the world was already in need of virtual platforms for education and convening, the past year has fast-forwarded that timeline. Working with the TechChange team at this point in time allows me to work with cutting-edge technology and education practices. I’m particularly excited to see how we might be able to bring engaging and equitable eLearning experiences to places that need lowtech solutions.

Q: Lastly, what’s something that not a lot of people know about you?

One of my favorite places to be is on a bike. While some people dread climbing hills, I love that moment of giving a steep climb everything I’ve got just as much as I look forward to gaining speed on the other side. I’d like to think that’s also a metaphor for how I live my life. My biking adventures also come with their fair share of stories, like that one time I was mountain biking in the foothills of the French Alps, got a flat, and had to be rescued, or when I got stung by a bee (I’m allergic) 14 miles into a 55 mile bike ride… 

Shannon is Director of Virtual & Hybrid Events at TechChange, where she leads the Events department in creating engaging virtual and hybrid conferences for partners and participants across the globe. Prior to joining TechChange, she worked in nonprofits in France, the US, and the UK, and holds an MSc in Globalisation and Development from SOAS University of London.

Q: So, tell us more about yourself. How did you end up working in events?

Previous to working at TechChange, I worked in a few different nonprofits with education and human rights at the core of their missions. In these organizations, I was involved in events — everything from external-facing networking events focused on hiring to internal-facing events revolving around employee wellbeing programs and trainings. While my events experience was primarily in person, I was very interested in pivoting to the digital space when the pandemic hit and organizations turned their focus to convening virtually.

Q: How did you first hear about TechChange?

I heard about TechChange via one of Nick’s LinkedIn posts! A mutual connection reshared something he had posted, which led me to look into the organization and reach out to connect.

Q: What are some of your favorite parts of working at TechChange so far?

My favorite part of working at TechChange is the opportunity to collaborate with a group of innovative, intelligent colleagues and partners. The curiosity and energy that the TechChange team brings to their work creates an inspiring environment to work in. The partners that we work with also bring such passion for the programs and initiatives connected to each of their events, and, having worked in organizations focused on social change throughout my career, I feel lucky to be able to contribute to our partners’ success in areas from human rights to peacekeeping to public health!

Q: What excites you about this role?

One of the most pleasant surprises about this role is the constant exposure to live virtual production approaches. There is nothing more thrilling than being in the virtual greenroom/studio as we go live with a keynote speaker or opening ceremony!

Q: Anything you look forward to working on or learning at TechChange in the next year?

I’m really looking forward to the ways in which hybrid events will evolve as more of our partners become able to further explore this space. Over the past year and a half, we’ve had so many opportunities to shift our approach to virtual events and further enhance the participant experience, so it will be really interesting to see the ways in which we carry new and existing elements into a hybrid world and continue to improve based on what we learn!

Q: Lastly, what’s something that not a lot of people know about you?

I’m a bit restless and am always looking for a craft or hobby to keep busy! Some of my favorite activities are jogging and hiking, trying out new recipes, and designing jewelry or clothing. I’ve worn a few of my own creations to friends’ weddings and am always seeking new creative activities!

Lilly is a Project Assistant at TechChange, where she supports the development of engaging virtual experiences. She recently graduated from Brown University with a B.A. in International Relations and spent her summer researching distributed energy resource management systems and peer-to-peer renewable energy trading.

Q: So, tell us more about yourself. How did you end up working in Education?

During my senior year at Brown, I spontaneously registered for a course in UIUX design. Ultimately complementing my study of International Relations, my interest in UIUX allowed me to explore the intersection of design, current affairs, technology and digital media. While job hunting, my main goal was to find a role that would allow me to bridge the knowledge gap between academics and industry experts, and the diverse audiences who lack exposure to the same kind of knowledge and experience…And then I discovered TechChange!

Q: How did you first hear about TechChange?

I stumbled across TechChange on LinkedIn shortly after graduating from university. It didn’t take long to realize that my desire to find new ways to engage and inform different communities and individuals through visual and written storytelling aligned perfectly with the work TechChange was doing. 

Q: What are some of your favorite parts of working at TechChange so far?

TechChange has provided me with the opportunity to explore different projects, develop new skills, and dive into the world of tech and education. My team has always been incredibly supportive of my curiosity and has been instrumental to my continuous growth over the past year.

Q: What excites you about this role?

The role is ever-changing. New projects, new challenges and new opportunities are always emerging and there is a constant, unanimous anticipation of what is to come.

Q: Anything you look forward to working on or learning at TechChange in the next year?

I’m excited to learn more about the different tools and processes that contribute to successful, human-centered design!

Q: Lastly, what’s something that not a lot of people know about you?

I can write with both hands at the same time!