Adam Wolfe cultivates a culture of innovation and continuous growth for his students at Nitro High School (NHS), where he teaches math and engineering. A former engineer himself, Wolfe provides unique, hands-on opportunities for students that connect classroom lessons to real-world applications. He teaches an upper-level geometry course, and four pre-engineering classes through the school’s involvement in Project Lead the Way (PLTW). Collaborating with local organizations and government agencies, Wolfe enables students to apply their classroom knowledge through networking and community projects. His students’ work has both academic and community benefits, highlighted through the design of a crosswalk with lights for a local elementary school; a partnership with the West Virginia State Parks system to design and sell Christmas ornaments; and the rebuilding of a local community pool’s swim team record board. Wolfe also fosters community partnerships and opportunities for students outside of his engineering classes, such as a logo redesign project for the National Guard.
To find a niche for every student, Wolfe implements creative instructional practices and learning experiences to pique students’ interest, like using an ultraviolet light to purify water or restoring old video games. Wolfe establishes lasting partnerships with community organizations, bridging the gap between theoretical and practical applications of subject matter. This approach prepares students in advancing successfully to the next stage of their learning, whether in academics or the workforce.
Wolfe’s leadership and positive influence extend beyond his classroom as he mentors other teachers, has presented at the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) conference, coordinated a mentor program for ninth grade students to effectively transition to higher grade levels, and worked with the West Virginia Secondary Schools Activities Commission (WVSSAC) on a mathematical model to redefine athletic classifications among the state’s high school basketball programs. Further supporting students, Wolfe facilitates summer student internships with outside engineering firms, has coached the math field day team, and sponsored NHS’ first robotics team. During COVID, Wolfe worked with others to 3D-print masks to deliver to hospitals in need.
Wolfe earned a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from the West Virginia University Institute of Technology in 2010, a Master of Science in civil engineering from Vanderbilt University in 2012, and a Master of Arts in educational leadership from Salem University in 2024.
Press Release: $25,000 Milken Educator Award Shines Spotlight on Surprised Nitro High School Teacher Adam Wolfe
