Frances Figg
Tenure Portfolio
Architecture
Construction Technology
Renewable Energy Technology
To President Moore:
Please accept this letter and the digital Portfolio in the consideration of my candidacy as a tenured faculty member at Triton.
I started teaching at Triton in the Fall of 2005 as an Adjunct hired to teach Architectural Drafting. I received my Undergraduate and Masters of Architecture from the University of Michigan. At the time I graduated from college, all drawings were done by hand, so this was a natural fit for me. As I taught at Triton, I also availed myself of the reduced cost classes and learned many of the computer programs that were not available when I was a student. This has allowed me to expand my role in teaching as opportunities arose.
Admittedly, when I first started teaching here, I did not envision myself as the Chairperson of the department (let alone 3 departments). Teaching my first class here was a new experience, and I quickly discovered that I loved teaching the students and watching students progress from little to no knowledge about drafting, to producing beautiful drawings and lettering by the end of the semester. As the years went by, I also taught Design classes, Computer modeling and Technical classes. I loved learning the new programs and techniques as much as the students. Also, being a student in the various programs (ARC, ART and VIC) gave me insight into how I could become a better teacher, and how I could improve my own classes.
In the summer of 2016, the Architecture program was diminished and there was a fledgling program called Independent Building Contractor. The full-time Coordinator at the time had left, and I agreed to take the position as a Part-time Coordinator. I was determined to not let the Architecture program close. During my Tenure as the Coordinator and now Chairperson, the Architecture program has grown significantly, The IBC program was revamped into the current Construction Technology Program with Plumbing and Carpentry Certificates, and the new Renewable Energy Technology Program was launched. This summer, a new Construction Management Certificate was approved, working with Industry partners and in collaboration with the Business department.
I have immersed myself into the Triton College culture. I have been a member of the Triton Greening the Campus Committee for many years. I have availed myself of learning opportunities at the College and was in the initial cohort of the Atlas program in the CTE, where I found many presentations that helped me to further enrich my teaching. I have been an Assessment Fellow, navigating my departments through the recent changes in Assessment at Triton. I am the Faculty liaison for the Architecture and Design Club. I plan and lead the Advisory meetings and recruit new members to the Advisory. I also have developed many connections outside of Triton that have enriched our program, attracted students, and supported staff.
Thank you again for this opportunity to lead three departments, and the growth and learning that has accompanied this position. It is my hope that you will see evidence of all of my work at and in support of Triton as I have outlined in this Portfolio.
Thank you for your consideration.
Frances Figg
Chairperson ARC and COT
Coordinator REN
