Mr. Johnston

Mr. Mark Johnston, MBA

STEM & CTE Educator | Robotics Coach | Technology Leader

Engineering Robotics Computer Science Technology

About Me

I'm a STEM and CTE educator specializing in Engineering, Robotics, and Computer Science. As a veteran teacher and program builder, I have a proven track record of launching competitive robotics teams, growing enrollment, and taking students to VEX Worlds.

My diverse background spans the U.S. Air Force, finance, corporate training, and K–12 leadership. This unique combination of experiences allows me to bring real-world perspectives into the classroom, helping students connect their learning to future careers and opportunities.

I'm passionate about creating innovative learning experiences that inspire students to explore STEM fields and develop the critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills they need for success.

Recent Achievements

Hornedo Middle School Robotics (2023–2024)

Founded a robotics club with VEX V5 and VEX IQ teams:

  • All 8 V5 teams qualified for Regionals
  • Two IQ teams qualified for Regionals
  • One V5 team and one IQ team qualified for VEX Worlds
  • IQ team advanced to division finals at Worlds
CREEDS Summer Research Program (2025)

Selected participant in UTEP's NSF-funded Cybersecurity Research Experience for Educators through Data Science. Completed a six-week, mentor-guided research experience focused on data science, AI, and cybersecurity.

Digital Learning Leader

Active in the educational technology community:

  • YouTube Creator: 5,500+ subscribers and 250,000+ views
  • Community Admin: Facebook VEXcode group serving 1,500+ educators
  • Conference presenter at ISTE Live, PLTW Summit, and more

Teaching Experience

Capt. John L. Chapin High School, El Paso, TX

P-TECH Teacher Leader, Computer Science (2026–present)

Leading computer science instruction in a P-TECH program focused on preparing students for college and career success in information technology.

Hornedo Middle School, El Paso, TX

Business and Engineering Teacher (2023–2025)

Built the campus robotics program, implemented VEX V5 and IQ pathways, and expanded competitive opportunities across grades.

Director of Robotics, Greenville ISD

(2022–Feb 2023)

District-wide robotics program leadership, equipment procurement, team coaching, and event operations.

Hanks High School, El Paso, TX

Engineering and Robotics Teacher (2021–2022)

Recruited and filled four competitive teams, two qualified for Regionals and VEX Worlds 2022. Secured roughly $25,000 in new robotics equipment.

Bel Air Middle School, El Paso, TX

STEM and Science Teacher (2017–2021)

Grew course enrollment by about 160%, hosted robotics tournaments, launched Medical Detectives and Green Architecture programs.

UT Tyler Innovation Academy, Palestine, TX

7th–8th Grade Science and Engineering Teacher (2016–2017)

Selected for technology expertise, trained in Project-Based Learning, taught Science and Engineering to middle school students.

Gallery

Impact Stats

160%
Enrollment Growth at Bel Air MS
250K+
YouTube Video Views
7
Teams to VEX Worlds

Education

HPU
MBA

Howard Payne University

Summa Cum Laude, 4.0 GPA

May 2024
HPU
BAAS in Christian Studies

Howard Payne University

Summa Cum Laude, 3.95 GPA

December 2013

Certifications

Texas Standard Teaching Certifications:

Computer Science 8–12 Technology Education 6–12 Technology Applications EC–12 Special Education EC–12 Business and Finance 6–12 General Education 4–8

PLTW Training Completed:

Automation and Robotics Design and Modeling Medical Detectives Green Architecture

Military Service

U.S. Air Force
Enlisted 2004–2006
Honorable Discharge
Disabled Veteran