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NC3 has some impressive Master Instructors in our ranks and this Instructor Spotlight series aims to highlight the incredibly talented individuals who work with us. We’ll be featuring a new interview in our monthly newsletters, here on our website, and on our social media pages each month.
Sara LeCroy
NC3 Master Instructor | Starrett & Snap-on | Faith Academy & Bishop State Community College
From math teacher to NC3 Master Instructor, Sara LeCroy brings passion, purpose, and hands-on learning to the classroom at Faith Academy and Bishop State Community College. Her journey into CTE and dedication to building real-world skills for students is nothing short of inspiring. Learn how she integrates industry-recognized credentials, supports all learners, and finds joy in building community through Train-the-Trainer programs.
Check out our Q&A session below to learn more about Sara, her professional journey to becoming an instructor, his favorite part of being an NC3 Master Instructor, and more!
Describe your path to becoming an instructor, what you teach, and how long you have been teaching.
I began my career as a math teacher, inspired by several of my high school teachers, especially Mrs. Tonya Darby. She recognized leadership in me before I saw it in myself. She supported me both in and out of the classroom and showed me what it meant to be a mentor and role model. She was also so cool! She rode a motorcycle and had this confident, authentic energy about her. I knew I wanted to play a similar role for others in my life.
About 15 years into my teaching journey, I shifted into career and technical education because I wanted to support all my students, whether they planned to attend college or enter the workforce directly. Many of my students were interested in engineering but lacked basic hands-on skills like reading a tape measure or understanding angles. They could handle the calculus but struggled to see how it applied in the real world. I observed the same thing in my physics classes. Introducing tools like Multimeters helped bring those abstract concepts to life and gave students a better understanding of concepts such as Ohm’s Law or measurements like volts and amperes. Today, I teach dual enrollment classes through Bishop State Community College. My courses include Precision Measuring Instruments, Multimeter, 3M Workplace Safety, and Hand Tool Identification. These programs support Bishop’s automotive, aviation, and machine tool technology tracks. I am in my 19th year of teaching, and I enjoy helping students build practical skills that support their future goals.
Describe something you’re proud and passionate about that your school does.
Without a doubt, it’s the support I get here at Faith Academy. I have the best support team. Anytime I go to our administration for anything, they are all in. When we’re working on something in collaboration with Bishop State, they’re always on board and ready to help. They’re often more concerned about my well-being than I am! We’re also a private school. Most private schools in our area are strictly college-prep, but what makes us different is that we embrace and support all of our students regardless of their chosen path. Whether they’re headed to a four-year university or into a trade, we ensure they have the skills and support they need.
How did you get involved with NC3?
My first NC3 event was a Train-the-Trainer in February 2020 at West-MEC in Phoenix, where I took the PMI certification. I was really excited because Ira Friedman, a legendary figure from Starrett, was teaching the class. I felt lucky to have the chance to learn from him. Flight Works Alabama sent me to that training while they were preparing their FlightPath9 program, and I’m still incredibly grateful for that opportunity.
Shortly after, COVID hit. I continued training virtually with NC3 for a couple of years. When in-person Train-the-Trainer sessions resumed in 2021, I attended a 3M training at TCAT Elizabethton and have gradually added more certifications since. In 2023, I retook the PMI course in Kenosha, where Jeremy King served as Master Instructor. Jeremy encouraged me to pursue becoming a Master Instructor myself, and I haven’t looked back since!
What would you say to instructors or schools considering adding NC3 certifications to their programming?
I would encourage them to visit a school that is already using them. It’s impressive to see just how flexible and effective the programs are. The support from Starrett, Snap-on, and NC3’s other industry partners makes a huge difference. When local industry representatives come to our school and see the Starrett or Snap-on certification kits, they are amazed. I recall two machinists from Lewis Precision and CNC visiting and being completely blown away when they saw Starrett’s name on our equipment. They eagerly explored the cart, asked many questions, and couldn’t believe that high school students were learning to use these professional tools.
What is your favorite part of Train-the-Trainers and being a Master Instructor?
I absolutely love hearing how different instructors use the curriculum in their schools. It’s fascinating to hear all the different perspectives and to learn what they choose to emphasize. I love the stories they tell to bring the material to life and the little tips and tricks they share. As teachers, we always say, “steal, steal, steal.” I collect all those little gems and bring them back to my students.
Another thing I love is the sense of community among the Master Instructors. I have a whole list of people I know I can call anytime I need help. The support doesn’t end when the TTT is over. The ongoing camaraderie and connection are what make it truly special.
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of school and NC3?
I like to stay busy! I get to write curriculum for elementary and middle schools, which I really enjoy. Outside of work, I spend a lot of time with my boys. I have a12-year-old and 10-year-old twins. I chase them around the park every week, and on weekends, you’ll find me at their baseball games. I also enjoy woodworking, especially working on my lathe. I don’t get to do it as much as I’d like right now, but I hope I’ll have more time for it as the boys get older.
What’s a piece of advice you’d give to your students, your younger self, or other educators?
That’s a tough one, but I’d say to be a “forever student”. Always stay curious and open to learning something new. And remember to value progress over perfection. That mindset makes all the difference.
Click to learn more about the Faith Academy & Bishop State Community College.
Click to learn more about NC3’s Partners, Starrett and Snap-on.
For information on NC3’s Train-the-Trainer program, please visit www.nc3.net/training
