294. Building an Industry-Driven Tech High School with Nathan Gorsch

About this episode

Nathan Gorsch discusses the creation of the Colorado Springs School of Technology and its focus on industry-driven education.

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re reconnecting with returning guest and “serial school starter” Nathan Gorsch, executive director and principal of the Colorado Springs School of Technology. Nathan shares how his experience launching Village High School shaped the vision for this new, industry-driven high school designed around immersive, future-focused learning. We explore how a powerful coalition of district leaders, higher education, and local industry came together to create a tech-focused ecosystem serving both students and the regional workforce. We also dig into what school actually looks and feels like for students: flexible, workplace-inspired spaces, pathway-based coursework in aerospace, cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, and leadership, and short, high-impact industry sprints led by professionals. Nathan reflects on why ethical leadership matters just as much as technical skills—especially in fields like AI—and hints at what’s coming next in the broader innovation zone. Join us to explore how schools can truly partner with the community to prepare students for emerging careers. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Launching the Colorado Springs…

People in this episode

Guest: Nathan Gorsch

Topics covered

• education
• technology
• industry-driven learning
• high school innovation

Keywords

• immersive learning
• ethical leadership
• community partnership
• emerging careers

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Colorado Springs School of Technology

Books & works: Learning Unboxed

Places: NYC

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