Tyler Halterman | Scott

Meet Tyler Halterman, an inspiring Instructor in the Game and Simulation Development (GSD) department at the Blong Technology Center. With five years at EICC, Tyler's journey into education was sparked by his experiences in leadership roles during his college years, where he found joy in uplifting and sharing knowledge with his peers. He loves working with passionate students and engaging in deep discussions about game development. Tyler's memorable moments include helping students secure jobs in the competitive industry. Outside of work, he enjoys sports, lifting weights, spending time with his family, and creating art. His favorite quote from Ted Lasso, "Takin' on a challenge is a lot like riding a horse, isn't it? If you're comfortable while you're doin' it, you're probably doin' it wrong," motivates him daily. Get to know more about Tyler through his Q&A below! 🌟

• What inspired you to work in education?
  I never saw myself in education for much of my life. It wasn't until I went back to college the second time in my late 20's that I started to see the impact I could make as an educator. In my classes, I often found myself in leadership roles that allowed me to uplift other students. I took it upon myself to embrace this opportunity to grow personally but also to help our cohort develop collectively. We all found joy in building each other up and sharing knowledge we discovered along the way. This community-driven learning environment inspired me to pursue education after graduation.
• What do you enjoy most about your job? 
  I really enjoy working with students who are passionate about this field. Nothing is more exciting than getting lost in a deep discussion about games or creative ways to execute various tasks in game development. This role also allows me to continuously learn new skills as technology evolves. I rarely find myself stuck in one discipline of development for too long, making each day a little different from the last.
• Can you share a memorable moment or achievement during your time at the college?
  One of the most challenging aspects of teaching in this industry is job placement and ensuring students are prepared for this highly competitive field. A few years back, I contacted a local development studio and asked if they would consider some of my students for potential employment. They agreed and interviewed several candidates, ultimately hiring one full-time. A few months later, the hiring manager reached out to me. She shared that the student was incredible and that they were extremely pleased with their work, industry readiness, and work ethic. While the majority of that credit goes to the student and their dedication, I was thrilled to be a small part of their journey. In that moment, I felt like a proud parent receiving that phone call.
• What are your hobbies or interests outside of work? 
  I enjoy playing/watching sports and lifting weights. I'm an active member of my church where I serve on the live stream production team. I love spending time with my wife and two daughters, typically going on walks, visiting parks, zoos, and museums. I also enjoy creating art in various forms, from music composition to painting to inventing unique projects.
• Do you have a favorite quote or motto that motivates you?
  "Takin' on a challenge is a lot like riding a horse, isn't it? If you're comfortable while you're doin' it, you're probably doin' it wrong." - Ted Lasso
• What is your approach to student engagement and success?
  I believe I need to demonstrate genuine passion and enthusiasm about what I'm teaching. If I'm not passionate about the content, how can I expect students to be engaged? I strive to create an environment where curiosity is encouraged, challenges are embraced as learning opportunities, and students feel supported in taking creative risks. By modeling the excitement and dedication I hope to inspire, I find students naturally become more invested in their own learning journey.
• Can you share a piece of advice for students or colleagues?
  Remember that controlling your destiny doesn't mean controlling every outcome. It means taking ownership of your choices, efforts, and responses to life's challenges. Your consistent effort and deliberate work create the foundation upon which opportunity can build.
• What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know? 
  I play the cello. I started learning as an adult for the unique challenge it offered.
• If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
  The ability to manipulate time. I feel there are so many things in this world I want to learn, but simply not enough time to give everything my full attention. Manipulating time would give me the flexibility to explore and master those subjects I currently don't have the bandwidth to pursue, while still being fully present for my students, colleagues, and family.
• What’s your favorite book, movie, or TV show? 
  Ted Lasso. This show has something for everyone, at any point of their life. It promotes all the right things. It makes you laugh, cry, think and cheer.