Cory Hafer has been teaching science and engineering for the last 11 years. He received a Bachelor of Science in cellular and molecular biology at the University of Michigan and worked as a research technician at Columbia University Irving Medical Center in infectious disease research for three years. In the lab, he developed a passion for teaching and volunteered in New York City Public Schools, facilitating learning experiences in the lab for local students. 
 
He received a Master of Arts in biology education at Teachers College, Columbia University, and started teaching in Brooklyn. He has taught chemistry, biology, forensic science and theory of knowledge, and currently teaches four levels of Project Lead The Way (PLTW) engineering courses (grades nine through 12) at Middletown High School (MHS) in Middletown, Delaware. Hafer is a PLTW Master Teacher and facilitates teacher training for the capstone engineering course. He has expanded the engineering pathway at MHS to include 3D printing and laser cutting labs, has organized a districtwide engineering showcase for senior design projects and has developed an extensive network of professional engineers who mentor capstone engineering students. He also coaches tennis and advises the Technology Student Association. 
 
Hafer has developed a classroom environment where all students feel welcome and know they can succeed. Students are encouraged to take risks and explore their curiosities. He engages his students in hands-on, problem-based learning and provides a flexible structure that allows students to pursue their interests while working toward common learning targets.