Leadership Greater Topeka | Caitlin Luttjohann
Photo by BRADEN DIMICK
What led you to this career?
Experiences where I could learn through play as a child led me down my engineering path. College was difficult for me. I did not have straight A's. In fact, I had C's and several moments where I thought I could not complete this, thinking I was not good enough for this career because it was not coming to me easily. Thankfully, I kept going and was successful.
While going to college, I had the opportunity to work at a before and after school care program where I taught an engineering club. It was here where I noticed 5th graders wanting to give up because they could not figure something out in our design. I encouraged them to keep going, think through the problem, use their resources and they succeeded. This is where I realized I wanted all children to realize they can do anything they want as long as they do not give up and try their best. I started at the Flint Hills Discovery Center as an Education Specialist for Science and have been in the informal education world ever since.
What do you think the secret to a good life is?
I believe there are things to consider when it comes to a good life.
1) Be yourself.
2) Allow yourself to fail safely, learn and move on.
3) Stay curious and allow yourself to follow that curiosity even if the path isn't the "normal" one.
What music artist do you never get tired of?
Queen
What is one piece of advice that has served you well in your journey and who did you get it from?
There was a presenter at a conference several years ago who said, "Don't let perfect get in the way of good." This really resonated with and still does. This is a fantastic reminder for me, that every little thing in life does not have to be perfect. Doing you best, learning from mistakes and continuing move forward is important.
What do you love most about your work?
Working with children in a way that provides them a safe place to learn through play, fail safely and explore new things is one of the many things I love about my work. Children are the future, and they need to be equipped with solving problems we know nothing about yet. Having a solid foundation is critical for children. Being part of that foundation is a huge privilege.
What do you do for fun or to recharge?
Attending sporting events, musicals, theater, concerts, etc. where the atmosphere is fun and engaging is one of my favorite things to do! Especially when I get to share those things with people I care about it. There are times I need some time to just sit on the couch and play Wheel of Fortune!
What motivates you?
Children. Children are our future and I want to do my part to set them up for success. Having the opportunity to work with children, create learning opportunities and more is amazing. Kiddos are the most honest humans and I oftentimes learn more from them than they do from me. They are the best!
If you could choose one superhuman ability, what would it be?
Teleporting so that I could travel more!
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