Educator by Day, Chem Tech Student by Night

As a chemistry teacher at Ashley High School, Brooke Faulkner holds a bachelor’s degree in marine biology and a master’s in teaching. Despite her impressive academic background, Brooke saw an opportunity to expand her knowledge further when she discovered Cape Fear Community College’s Chemical Technology program .

Stepping into the lab

Brooke was first introduced to the Chemical Technology program through its C-TEaCH Academy , a professional development initiative that introduces high school teachers to laboratory techniques and analytical instrumentation.

“I had never learned how to use these machines,” Brooke shared. “Even with my marine biology degree and all the science classes I’ve taken, I had seen some of them but never this many. I never knew how they worked. It’s fascinating because you really don’t have to do anything by hand. The machines can do it all for you.”

CFCC’s Chemical Technology program provides hands-on experience with advanced instrumentation rarely found outside professional research labs. With expert guidance from Program Director Tracy Holbrook, Brooke quickly gained confidence.

“Tracy Holbrook does a great job of making sure you feel comfortable before using any expensive equipment,” Brooke explained. “As he likes to say, ‘If you can use your phone and read a recipe, you can do this.'”

Using Her Skills to Enrich Her Classroom

Brooke’s time at CFCC is benefiting both her and her students. She recently brought her class to tour CFCC’s Chemical Technology lab, where they learned about the field and even created their own lip balm and bug-repellent bars.

“I can introduce my students to new technology and instruments they wouldn’t normally have access to,” Brooke said.

Balancing Her Career and Education

As a full-time teacher, Brooke appreciates the flexibility offered by the evening courses in the Chemical Technology program.

“During the summer, I take regular hours, and during the school year, I do evening classes,” she said. “It’s obviously more work, but the labs are so interesting that it doesn’t feel like extra work.”

Discover more about CFCC’s Chemical Technology program, featuring cutting-edge technology and flexible course options, at cfcc.edu/chemical-technology .