Fall 2025 marks an exciting milestone for BCIT’s Polytechnic Teaching (POLY) program as it celebrates its first graduating students.
The POLY program is designed for current and aspiring post-secondary instructors. Delivered part-time through Flexible Learning, the program emphasizes applied and active teaching strategies aligned with BCIT’s hands-on approach to education.
Ron Tuck, who is set to complete the POLY program this fall, works full-time as the Inventory Management Coordinator in BCIT’s Geomatics department in the School of Construction and the Environment by day. In the evenings, he teaches Warehouse Management as a Flexible Learning Instructor in the School of Business + Media.
How did you first hear about the Polytechnic Teaching Associate Certificate Program, and what motivated you to enroll?
I was first introduced to the program by a long-time instructor in the School of Business + Media, who encouraged me to leverage my background in warehousing, my Operations Management certificate from BCIT, and my natural ability to communicate through storytelling. Motivated by a strong desire to help others be successful, I came to see teaching as a realistic possibility—something that I once had thought to be out of reach for a man in his late 40s.
What has been the most valuable takeaway from the program for you?
I believe the most valuable takeaway of the program was the in-class group discussions with my fellow classmates. Every participant was teaching in a unique program, bringing a variety of experiences and knowledge that enriched our discussions and offered valuable insights to draw upon.
What was the highlight of your experience in the program?
The highlight for me was the moment I submitted my final project [for one of my courses] and discovered that I could actually do this—that I had acquired the skills and knowledge necessary to enter the classroom with confidence.
How do you plan to apply the skills you’ve gained to your current or future roles?
I’ve already begun implementing the skills gained through the program. In early April 2025, I started my first contract as a Flexible Learning Instructor, where I have implemented new student engagement techniques, incorporated gamification elements, and started phasing out the traditional “Sage on the Stage” approach to a more facilitative “Guide on the Side” teaching style. From the traditional one-directional learning to encouraging collaboration, critical thinking, and active participation.
As a working professional, how did you manage the study hours required for the program?
Balancing full-time work during the day with evening classes, coupled with weekly homework and reading assignments, did result in some long days. But it was manageable with persistence and effective time management.
What advice would you give to someone considering this program?
If you have a passion for teaching and a genuine desire to help others succeed, I sincerely encourage you to pursue it. There’s nothing to lose, and the time invested is well worth it to achieve such a meaningful goal.
In what ways do you think this program will benefit your career moving forward?
Participating in the POLY program has been an important step in my professional development. As someone holding dual roles at BCIT, I believe the program has equipped me with the pedagogical tools, confidence, and classroom strategies to thrive in both positions. It has enhanced my ability to engage students through modern teaching techniques such as gamification and collaborative learning, and it has laid a strong foundation for continued growth in my post-secondary education. Moving forward, I see this program as not only supporting my current teaching role but also opening the door to expanded instructional opportunities within BCIT.
Do you have anything else to add?
As a father of three sons—two of whom are currently pursuing post-secondary education—this experience also allowed me to lead by example. It was an opportunity to show them that regardless of where you are in life or when you begin, with hard work and determination, achieving your goals is always possible.