By Jaime Watson
Innovation has always been a driving force in the field of education, and at Prime46, we understand how it plays a pivotal role in helping our clients thrive. As Sam Thompson (2022) aptly puts it, innovation in education involves identifying challenges, learning from experiences, developing novel approaches, and continuously refining them based on feedback.
With a background in mathematics and over twelve years of teaching experience, I’ve come to appreciate the value of innovation not only in education but also in my personal journey. Change and growth are essential for both personal and professional development. In June 2022, I embarked on a new adventure by transitioning from the classroom to a career as a research analyst at Prime46.
While some may have thought I was crazy to change careers just as summer was approaching, I viewed it as a natural progression of my passion. Education and innovation are intertwined, and I saw this career shift as an opportunity to channel my enthusiasm into a fresh and exciting direction.
Here are three key ways in which growth and innovation have influenced my career in education and led me to where I am today, hoping they might inspire you as well.
1. Embracing Change
Change can be either a positive or negative experience, depending on how it’s approached. In March 2020, the world underwent a significant transformation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Teachers found themselves on the front lines of a rapidly evolving educational landscape. With schools closing, educators had to quickly adapt to a digital learning environment.
Marcus Aurelius’ wisdom resonated with us: “You have power over your mind, not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” In response to the crisis, teachers demonstrated incredible resilience and adaptability. We embraced new technology and teaching methods, ensuring students received a quality education in an online setting.
The pandemic forced education to innovate, allowing us to catch up with other industries in terms of technology. The classroom I left behind was drastically different from the one I entered twelve years ago, showcasing the power of change.
At Prime46, we provide our clients with transformative change, albeit less drastic. As an agile team of advisors, we offer actionable consulting solutions rooted in a deep understanding of business and customer needs. My experience as a teacher during the pandemic taught me valuable adaptability skills that now benefit both myself and our clients.
2. Wholeheartedly Embracing Change
There’s a distinction between reluctantly accepting change and wholeheartedly embracing it. The latter can be an adventure filled with new experiences. As Sam Thompson (2022) notes, embracing innovation in education fosters critical thinking, a sense of adventure, and adaptability – crucial qualities for students and professionals alike.
For me, travel has been a source of unique perspectives and a symbol of embracing change. Exploring different cultures and diverse regions, from historic pubs in London to retracing the original marathon route in Athens, Greece, has broadened my horizons. These adventures have nurtured the confidence to confront challenges head-on.
Living in North Carolina for five years at the start of my teaching career provided a contrasting cultural experience compared to North Dakota. It opened my eyes to a public school system vastly different from what I was accustomed to. These experiences empowered me to advocate for improvements within the public school system.
As I embark on my career at Prime46, I value the insights and resilience gained from my adventures. Change can be a catalyst for adventure, and innovation builds the confidence to tackle new challenges. As part of our advisory team, we offer solutions that challenge the status quo, empowering clients to confidently implement transformative strategies for success.
3. The Power of Dreams
Every significant accomplishment begins with a dream. Whether it’s a childhood aspiration or a vision developed later in life, turning dreams into reality can be daunting. The fear of failure often holds us back, but Erin Hanson reminds us, “What if we fall? Oh, but my darling, what if you fly?”
Leaving behind a comfortable teaching career after more than a decade was indeed intimidating. Yet, comfort can stifle dreams and goals. It discourages us from seeking new knowledge, meeting new people, and pushing our boundaries.
Jason Frizzell (2014) beautifully states, “Dreams speak of hope, innovation lives it.” As a woman in STEM and a head track coach, the importance of representation has always been close to my heart. I constantly dream of ways to promote the significance of representation. However, it wasn’t until I ventured beyond my comfort zone and connected with inspiring female coaches in Wisconsin and Minnesota that my dream began to take shape.
I am currently spearheading the North Dakota chapter of Women4Women coaching, an organization dedicated to empowering female coaches and, by extension, female student-athletes. This journey wouldn’t be possible without the support and wisdom of fellow coaches and Women4Women chapters. Connecting with this community has enabled me to dream big and surround myself with an inspiring and educational network.
Never Stop Learning
In conclusion, change, embracing the unknown, and daring to dream big have shaped my life in profound ways. Recognizing that change can be a catalyst for positive transformation is the first step toward personal growth. Embrace change to infuse a sense of adventure into life and gain the confidence to overcome challenges.
As businesses seek to leverage research and consulting to drive innovation and growth, Prime46 stands ready to collaborate. Our solutions have the power to revolutionize businesses, just as these principles have transformed my journey. Imagine what they can do for your company.
About Jaime Watson
For over a decade, Jaime Watson served as an Instructional Leader and Curriculum Developer for high school students. With a strong foundation in academia and a knack for simplifying complex data, she brings valuable expertise to the Prime46 team as a Research Analyst. Jaime excels in effectively communicating intricate findings to clients, often handling sensitive