STEM Program

The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) program is an extracurricular, volunteer-led program that is available to high school boys. The goal of the program is to develop in the students an appreciation for, and understanding of STEM, to inspire them to pursue STEM careers, and provide them with tools to help along the way. The program also provides students with an excellent introduction to computers which is sure to benefit them regardless of the career path they ultimately follow. The STEM group meets every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month during the school year in the PAC from 9am-12.

The program is led and taught by qualified individuals who are all parishioners and who understand the importance of teaching about technology through the lens of our Catholic Faith. Mr. Joseph Zapp is the program founder and director. He holds a master’s degree in electrical engineering, a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, and a graduate certificate in systems engineering. He has over 15 years of software development and leadership experience. Mr. Daniel Torzala is a STEM program instructor. He graduated from our academy in 2009, holds a bachelor's degree in software engineering, and currently works at On Semiconductors developing financial analytics for executives. Mr. Toby Tuckness is an assistant instructor who graduated from our academy in 2021 and is currently attending South Mountain Community College studying computer science.

For more information, contact Mr. Zapp ([email protected]) or Mr. Torzala ([email protected]).

Written by Emily Torzala (excerpt of Academy Newsletter, February 2023)
Photos by Daniel Torzala