Alex Praggastis
Co-Founder of TEC
I began my career as a mechanical engineer working in the aerospace industry. I enjoyed the challenges that came along with this, but felt something was missing. I wanted to serve my community and make a lasting difference. Early in my engineering career, I resigned from my position and transitioned into education as a paraeducator in a special education classroom. Within a few months I began a Master’s degree in Secondary Mathematics. A few years later I discovered that many students couldn’t connect any math skills to real-world concepts. Tech Math was launched in an effort to connect core math standards for Oregon to hands-on, career related learning. TEC has since developed to spread these concepts regionally and continue to build connections between schools and industry.
Jennifer Wirth
Co-Founder
I entered education because I believe learning should be meaningful, engaging, and accessible to every student. As a special education teacher, I have dedicated my career to helping students build confidence, develop independence, and discover their unique strengths.
Through my work with students, families, and school teams, I have seen how powerful hands-on, real-world learning can be. TEC was created to help connect classroom concepts with authentic career experiences while building stronger partnerships between schools and industry. My goal is to ensure that all students have opportunities to explore their interests, develop practical skills, and become future-ready learners.