Meet The Parametric Studio Summer Interns: Cole Dulaney

Cole Dulaney is a senior Software Engineering student at Iowa State University who is one of Parametric Studio’s summer interns. Cole is working on new features for the DESCARTES web app, intended to streamline processes for both the end users and the developers. He will also be working on a few new projects Parametric Studio is starting.

Learn more about Cole in our Q&A:

What inspired you to pursue your chosen major?

CD: I have always liked all types of engineering because I love creating things. I was drawn to Software specifically by a combination of high job prospects and the virtually unlimited possibilities in things I can create. I also love the idea that there are basically endless amounts of new techniques to learn.

What do you like to do for fun?

CD: In my free time I enjoy skateboarding, playing with and training my two dogs Gizmo and Cosmo, and doing video production and editing work with a group of friends who share the interest.

What do you like most about working at Parametric Studio?

CD: Parametric has proven to be a fantastic work environment; everybody is quick to help and teach whenever needed. Working here has also been an excellent learning experience. I have had experience with many new frameworks and techniques, which has helped me become a much better developer. The combination of all of these things has allowed me to learn quickly while always being interested in what I am doing.

What would you like to see change or improve in STEM education?

CD: I came from a small school, so we more or less did not have any STEM programs. All biases from working here aside, I would love to see more people take the Parametric Studio approach to STEM. I have pretty severe ADHD-C, so I believe the combination of fun hands-on learning combined with genuine STEM techniques is a fantastic way to learn. 

I would love for schools to not simply recite textbook passages to kids, but rather spark their interest and allow them to apply what they are learning. Obviously there is a need for "normal" class sessions, but embracing the idea of giving kids real hands-on experience will not only ensure they are focused in class, but deepen the learning in the classroom.
I believe kids will learn more when they do something themselves and see why and how it works, rather than simply sitting and being lectured for 40 minutes and just being told it works.

Where do you see STEM education in the next 10 years?

CD: I believe technology is only going to keep improving and will continue making its way into schools. I imagine the subjects taught (or at least offered) will start to adjust for this new technological era, if they haven't already.

As kids start to have more and more technology with them at school every day I think schools will start using it to do more advanced STEM education. I believe even small schools like the one I grew up in will adopt things such as "Intro to Programming" units, and follow the industry trends of STEM in their teaching. I also hope they take the aforementioned hands-on experience path to give kids a deeper understanding of what they are doing.