Thomas Schmidt

Background

About Thomas Schmidt

Human services career began in mental health (20 years with MI DCH) and special education, and continues in career & technical education facilitating student achievement in a range of academic and vocational fields. Contributed graphics design talents to several projects promoting Special Olympics and Project Unify at Ann Arbor Pioneer High School. Designed, built and operated Pioneer International Speedway (4 lane HO-scale slot car track) as a promotional vehicle for Special Olympics and Project Unify. Donated services as sports photographer at Special Olympics Michigan Games. Conceived, designed and fabricated a hands-free camera support for a physically impaired photography student. Mounted on the student's wheelchair, the support enabled the student to operate a digital rangefinder camera via IR remote control. Supported Pioneer HS students with special needs enrolled in Ann Arbor Student Building Industry Program, where they learn rough and finish carpentry, drywall, plumbing, electrical and mechanical trades. Also mentored students with special needs studying automotive and shop technology, including welding. Currently co-teaching Auto Technology students at Huron High School. I collaborate with the Auto Tech instructor to provide students the hands-on shop experience supporting their classroom instruction. Role-playing "service department manager", I supervise the students working in the shop, monitor their compliance with shop and OSHA-mandated safety requirements, and provide technical support and any specialized tools needed for their tasks. Specialties: Technology-literate, strong mechanical aptitude and technical drawing/writing skills, graphic arts, photography and desktop publishing, IT training/technical support for colleagues.