Seaside High School teacher, Michelle Chen, inspires the next generation in computer science
Michelle Chen
Computer Science & Robotics Teacher
Seaside High School
At Seaside High School, Michelle Chen is on a mission to inspire students to explore computer science and robotics. With a career journey that began in engineering, her passion for education and equity has transformed her into a dedicated teacher and mentor.
Michelle Chen’s expertise is rooted in an impressive background in electrical engineering and computer science. Holding both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from UC Irvine, she spent 12 years as an engineer at Boeing before transitioning to another aerospace company for a few more years. Despite her success in the engineering field, she felt a pull toward education.
“I value education,” Chen explains. “When I was in school, teachers were inspirational, but I didn’t have access to the same resources as other kids. That’s why I want to give back and ensure all students have the opportunities they deserve.”
Chen began her teaching journey five years ago and has been at Seaside High School ever since, following a residency at Monterey High School. Her courses include computer science and robotics engineering, which combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on application.
“Computer science and robotics are practical and multidisciplinary,” she says. “Students learn to think and do simultaneously, applying skills from fields like electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, math, and physics.”
Her dedication has already proved fruitful.
“In the four years I’ve been here, I’ve seen several students pursue computer science in college. That makes me incredibly proud,” Chen shares.
Chen’s own experiences as a first-generation college graduate and as a woman in a male-dominated field drive her commitment to equity in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Growing up, she faced barriers that limited her exposure to engineering and computer science.
“When I was in school, girls weren’t introduced to subjects like engineering or woodworking,” she recalls. “It’s important to expose all students, regardless of gender, to these fields early on. Many students, especially girls, don’t consider these paths simply because they’ve never been introduced to them.”
Beyond the classroom, Chen leads the school’s robotics program, which competes in the First Robotics Competition and other events throughout the year. She actively recruits students through school fairs, word of mouth, and encouragement in her classes. Thanks to grants and support from MPUSD's Career and Technical Education program, students can participate without financial barriers.
“I want to give students year-round opportunities,” Chen explains. “We’ve done projects like the Naval Postgraduate Design Challenge and plan to work on combat robots after our main competition season.”
When she’s not teaching or mentoring, Chen enjoys life on her farm, where she cares for goats and chickens and tends to her garden.
Michelle Chen’s dedication to her students and her field is shaping a new generation of innovators and problem solvers. Through her efforts, she’s breaking down barriers and ensuring that every student at Seaside High School has the chance to explore and excel in STEM.