Join us on Sentinel Soundbytes, the official podcast of the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering (ASCTE). This series offers a deep dive into the unique experiences and opportunities available at ASCTE, a tuition-free magnet school focused on integrating cyber technology and engineering across all academic disciplines. From the school's inception to its current status as a leader in STEM education, each episode provides insights into various aspects of life at ASCTE.
Publisher
Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering
Episode 16: Inside ASCTE's Innovative Approach to Teacher Professional Development
How do you create professional development that teachers actually want to attend—and more importantly, can immediately apply in their classrooms?
On this episode of Sentinel Soundbytes, we sit down with Mary Clair Wright and Amy Mason to discuss how ASCTE is rethinking professional development for educators across Alabama.
From Cyber Immersion Days and classroom observations to AI and machine learning workshops, they share how teachers are gaining practical tools they can take straight back to their students. The conversation also explores the TEAMS initiative, why collaboration between educators is so valuable, and how ASCTE is helping teachers build confidence in emerging technologies while creating engaging STEM learning experiences.
Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or passionate about the future of education, this episode offers an inside look at the innovative programs helping shape the next generation of Alabama classrooms.
22 Jun 2026
Episode 15: How ASCTE Helps Students Find the Right College and Career Path
In this episode of Sentinel Soundbites, we sit down with ASCTE College Counselor Sheri Crigger and recent graduate Landon Grove to discuss the college planning journey, life after graduation, and how ASCTE prepares students for success beyond high school. Sheri shares how she works with students from their first year on campus through senior year, helping them navigate everything from college applications and scholarships to financial aid and career exploration. Landon reflects on his own experience, from arriving at ASCTE as a sophomore to earning admission to George Washington University, where he plans to study International Affairs.
Together, they discuss the Class of 2026's impressive accomplishments, the importance of starting the college planning process early, and the supportive culture that helps students celebrate one another's successes. The conversation also explores the unique opportunities available at ASCTE, including internships, dual enrollment, military pathways, and individualized college counseling that empowers students to create their own path after graduation. Whether you're a current student, parent, or future Sentinel, this episode offers valuable insight into what comes next after ASCTE.
1 Apr 2026
Episode 14: From Classroom to Broadcast: Inside ASCTE’s Radio Station Journey
What started as a college-era idea turned into a groundbreaking reality for students in North Alabama. In this episode of Sentinel Soundbytes, we go behind the scenes of WD&D 101.7 FM — the region’s first high school radio station — and the story of how it came to life.
Dr. Chris Brown and Jeremy Turner share the journey from navigating FCC regulations and securing funding to building a fully functional studio and launching live on the air. Along the way, they highlight the students who helped bring it all together, including the hands-on work that made the station operational.
More than just a radio station, WD&D is a creative platform — giving students the opportunity to produce original music, host shows, and even broadcast unique content like literary discussions and Dungeons & Dragons campaigns. It’s a story about vision, persistence, and creating real-world opportunities for the next generation.
17 Dec 2025
Episode 13: Inside the ASCTE Research Institute: A New Era of Cyber & AI Innovation
ASCTE President Matt Massey and CTO Chase Golden discuss the newly approved ASCTE Research Institute and its role in positioning ASCTE as a global leader in cyber education; this is an interview.
12 Nov 2025
Episode 12: Inside ACCEL: Inspiring Alabama’s Next Generation of Cyber & Engineering Leaders
MaryClair Wright and Dr. Chris Brown discuss ACCEL, a statewide initiative that delivers hands-on cyber and engineering education to Alabama schools, while Phoebe and Micah share their experiences as ACCEL interns in this interview episode.
3 Sept 2025
Episode 11: Bridging STEM and Storytelling at ASCTE
Jessy Brian, Lead Language Instructor, and Angela Pelle, Engineering Instructor, discuss how ASCTE integrates engineering with core subjects, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students.
13 Aug 2025
Episode 10: Teaching Cybersecurity and Ethics at ASCTE
Host Peter Speak interviews Beth Blair and Peter Speak about teaching cybersecurity and ethics to young students at ASCTE, highlighting the balance of technical skills and moral responsibility.
23 Jul 2025
Episode 9: Inside the Clinic: Supporting Student Wellness at ASCTE
School nurses Lacey Wright and Jennifer Raburn discuss student wellness at a residential STEM high school, including daily care, emergency protocols, and healthcare partnerships in this interview.
27 Jun 2025
Episode 8: Powering the Future: TVA and ASCTE's Cyber Internship Program
Dr. Rosemary Hodges and Lauren Pelto discuss the TVA and ASCTE cyber internship program, highlighting how it gives students real-world experience in cybersecurity and infrastructure, preparing them for future workforce demands in this interview.
4 Jun 2025
Episode 7: Letting Go, Leaning In: A Parent’s Perspective on ASCTE Life
Student Carolyn Robertson and her father Alan Robertson discuss their experiences during Carolyn's first year at the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering, highlighting personal growth and long-distance parenting in this interview.
21 May 2025
Episode 6: Leading the Charge: How ASCTE Is Bringing AI Literacy to High Schools Across the State
In this episode of Sentinel Sound Bites, we’re joined by ASCTE Chief Technology Officer Chase Golden and Cybersecurity Instructor and Curriculum Developer Mary Claire Wright to explore an exciting new initiative that’s shaping the future of education in Alabama.
Together, they dive into ASCTE’s partnership with the Alabama State Department of Education to create a first-of-its-kind Artificial Intelligence curriculum for high school students across the state. Mary Claire shares her experience transitioning out of the classroom to lead the development of this accessible, project-based course designed specifically for Alabama teachers and students—many of whom are working with limited resources.
From equipping educators with a full "course in a box" to making AI concepts approachable on everyday devices like Chromebooks, this conversation breaks down how ASCTE is empowering a generation of students with foundational AI literacy—regardless of their background or future career path. Plus, hear how this curriculum aligns with the school’s mission to disrupt traditional models of STEM education and create a more informed, AI-ready workforce.
Whether you're an educator, policymaker, or just curious about the role of AI in classrooms, this episode is a must-listen.
7 May 2025
Episode 5: Leading with Purpose: Celebrating ASCTE’s Class of 2025
In this special episode, we sit down with ASCTE President Matt Massey and Class of 2025 Senior President Kendall Wright to celebrate the graduating class and reflect on the school’s journey over the past four years. As ASCTE prepares to graduate its largest class yet, Kendall shares her experiences in student leadership, helping shape the school’s core values and the personal growth she’s seen within herself and her classmates. President Massey offers insights into the unique leadership culture at ASCTE and how this senior class has left a lasting legacy—both within the school and the broader community. From academic achievements to dorm life, this conversation captures the spirit, resilience, and camaraderie that define ASCTE. Plus, Kendall shares her next steps as she heads to Auburn University to study wildlife sciences.
23 Apr 2025
Episode 4: Living, Learning, and Leading: Inside Residential Life at ASCTE
In this episode of Sentinel Sound Bites, we dive into the heart of the student experience at ASCTE—residential life. Host Dylan is joined by two student leaders, Rodney Jones and Emory Wilkinson, as they share their journeys of growth, independence, and friendship through the school's Res-Life program. From weekend events and prefect mentorship to life skills like grocery shopping and roommate communication, Rodney and Emory offer a genuine look at what it’s like to live on campus.
Later in the episode, Director of Residential Life Michelle Cundiff joins the conversation to discuss the vision behind the program, the importance of student support, and how ASCTE is redefining the boarding school experience in Alabama. Whether you're a prospective family or just curious about life at ASCTE, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and the spirit of community that makes ASCTE so unique.
9 Apr 2025
Episode 3: Building a Culture Through Sports – Inside ASCTE with President Matt Massey & CFO Andy Smith
In this episode, we sit down with Mr. Matt Massey, President of the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering, and Mr. Andy Smith, the school’s CFO and COO, to talk about a different side of their leadership: athletics. From coaching multiple sports to helping build entire programs from scratch, Massey and Smith offer a unique look at how extracurriculars play a vital role in ASCTE’s mission.
We dive into the school’s early decisions around launching sports programs, how athletics support student wellness and school branding, and what it means to be a boarding school without a traditional home field—until now. They also give us a behind-the-scenes look at new campus developments like a turf soccer field and the upcoming Sentinel Center. Whether it’s tennis, swimming, robotics, or drama, this conversation highlights the culture of excellence and community that’s being cultivated on and off the field at ASCTE.
Follow The Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering’s official accounts:On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ASCTEAlabama/On Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/ASCTEAlabama/On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ASCTEAlabama/
26 Mar 2025
Episode 2: Innovation in Cyber & Engineering Education with Dr. Rosemary Hodges & Chase Golden
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rosemary Hodges, Dean of Teacher and Student Learning, and Chase Golden, Chief Technology Officer, at the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering (ASCTE).Dr. Hodges shares her journey in education and how she played a pivotal role in ASCTE’s record-time accreditation. Mr. Golden discusses how the school integrates cybersecurity into the engineering lifecycle, preparing students for real-world challenges. We explore how ASCTE’s unique curriculum is shaped by industry experts, the impact of student internships, and how the school’s agile approach keeps it ahead of evolving technology trends.From quantum computing to cyber ranges and cutting-edge partnerships, ASCTE is redefining STEM education. Whether you’re an educator, a tech enthusiast, or a prospective student, this conversation highlights how ASCTE is building the next generation of innovators.Follow The Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering’s official accounts:On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ASCTEAlabama/On Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/ASCTEAlabama/On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ASCTEAlabama/
20 Mar 2025
Episode 1: The Vision Behind ASCTE with Senator Arthur Orr & President Matt Massey
Welcome to the inaugural episode of Sentinel Soundbytes, an inside look at all things ASCTE. We are honored to begin this journey at the most logical place.....the beginning.
ASCTE Board Chair Senator Arthur Orr and President Matt Massey share the story of how this one-of-a-kind educational institution came to life. From the vision and planning that started well before its doors opened in August 2020 to its incredible impact as it enters its fifth year, discover how ASCTE is on the road to shaping the future of students and industries worldwide.
Who has been a guest on Sentinel Soundbytes
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Matt Massey
Chase Golden
MaryClair Wright
Dr Chris Brown
Phoebe
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 11 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
10
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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