Artificial Intelligence isn’t just changing education, it’s reshaping the future of work. But how can schools embrace AI to empower students and educators alike? And what role does industry play in preparing students for a rapidly evolving workforce?

Today, host Mariah Presley, Education and Industry Partnerships Leader at Trane, talks with two education experts: GA Buie, Executive Director at United School Administrators of Kansas, and Mike Hines, National Education Sales Leader for Energy Services at Trane. Together, they explore how AI is transforming education, why collaboration between schools and industry is essential, and what practical solutions look like in classrooms today.

We also discuss:

• How educators can integrate AI without losing the human touch.
• Why schools and businesses must collaborate closely to address rapid technological changes.
• Real-life examples, like AI-driven chatbots and tailored professional development tools, that support teachers and administrators.
• Why equipping students with both technical AI literacy and critical “human enduring skills” is essential for success.
• How industry certifications and workplace skills training by companies like Trane can complement traditional education, ensuring students thrive in any career they choose.

What do you think? How is your school or community working with AI? Let us know in the comments on Spotify, leave a review on Apple or add to the conversation on YouTube! You can also reach out at thiseducationallife@trane.com.

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Together, let's build schools ready for tomorrow, today.

What's it really like teaching science in a rapidly changing world? What happens when technology evolves faster than the curriculum? And how can teachers bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world STEM careers?

In today’s episode of This Educational Life, host Mariah Presley, Industry and Programs Lead at Trane, sits down with Adam Krug, a high school chemistry teacher in Kansas who swapped the lab coat for the classroom almost two decades ago. Today, Adam’s challenge is about preparing students for careers many haven't even imagined yet, and how industry collaborations can help reconnect students with practical, hands-on experiences.

In this episode we discuss:

• How teachers stay ahead when technology evolves faster than textbooks.
• Why Adam believes curiosity, creativity, and comfort with complexity are essential skills for today's students.
• How industry collaboration can help in showcasing real-world STEM careers
• Practical ideas for STEM teachers looking to innovate without breaking their budgets.

Let us know your thoughts! How is your school preparing students for a changing world and career that might not exist yet? Email us at thiseducationallife@trane.com and make sure to follow This Educational Life for new episodes every two weeks.

Let’s continue redefining what's possible in education, together.

Across America, rural and small-town communities are foundational to the national identity, rich in heritage and resilience. But as educational needs evolve, many of these communities grapple with unique challenges - from limited career visibility for students to maintaining school infrastructure. How can education play a transformative role in celebrating rural strengths and creating equal opportunities?

In this episode of This Educational Life, Mariah Presley, Education and Industry Programs Leader at Trane, speaks with rural education advocates David Ardrey, formerly the Director of the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools, now the Interim Executive Director for the National Rural Education Association, and John Glasgow, Program Director at the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools. Together, they explore how educational initiatives and strategic industry collaborations can ensure every student, no matter their zip code, feels equally equipped and inspired.

We discuss:

• The essential role rural communities play in America’s economic and cultural landscape.
• How collaboration with industry sectors like agriculture, technology, and HVAC is opening new doors for rural students.
• Real-world examples of schools innovating with industry experts to enhance STEM and career and technical education (CTE).
• Shifting narratives about rural success, highlighting diverse career pathways and redefining success beyond big cities.

Let us know what you think! Do you come from a community negotiating similar challenges? If so, how are you approaching solutions? Do you have an idea for a future episode? Let us know at thiseducationallife@trane.com or head to our show page here for more info. You can also leave us a comment on Spotify or Youtube, or a review on Apple Podcasts. Make sure to follow the podcast for new episodes every two weeks.

Let's continue redefining what's possible in education, together.