Meet Eric Hanby
Post-Secondary Institution
Davenport University
Certification
Secondary Science
District
Cass City Public Schools
Professional Background
Transitioned from Healthcare Administration to Certified Teacher
After a career in healthcare administration, a new science teacher in Cass City, Michigan, is pursuing education with support from Talent Together.
Eric Hanby, a dedicated educator, made the switch to teaching after a career in healthcare administration. He currently teaches eighth-grade science at Cass City Junior Senior High School in Cass City, Michigan.
What is your background and why did you decide to pursue teaching?
My initial degree is in history, but I didn’t have a teaching certificate. I graduated in 2009 and worked in healthcare administration for some time. When my son was born, I stayed at home with him for two years, which was a valuable experience. After that, I began substituting in schools since I had the necessary credits. One day, the principal approached me and said, “You belong here, and the kids enjoy your presence. Would you like to make this a permanent position?” I said, “Absolutely! What do I need to do?” That’s when I learned about Talent Together and saw it as an incredible opportunity to pursue full-time teaching.
What made you choose Talent Together?
The program caught my attention because of the extensive support it offers. It covers tuition, books, and supplies, and even reimburses the MTTC certification test. Being a science enthusiast, teaching it felt like the perfect fit for me. The more I learned about the program, the more I realized it was an excellent opportunity.
How has Talent Together supported you throughout this process?
The support has been outstanding. They take care of everything from tuition to supplies, which simplifies the process significantly. Their webinars and check-ins ensure we stay on track and feel supported throughout our journey. Davenport University has also been fantastic; their academic advising team mapped out my degree plan, registered me for classes, and made everything seamless. I appreciate how Talent Together collaborates with the university to manage logistics and tuition, relieving me of that concern.
What advice would you give to someone considering Talent Together?
Don’t hesitate—just go for it. In the past, I missed opportunities because I doubted myself, but I’ve learned to shift my mindset. If you’re thinking about applying, do it! Talent Together provides everything you need to succeed.
What are your hopes for the future?
I aim to remain in the classroom for at least the next five years. I love teaching science and creating a positive learning environment for my students. With the support of Talent Together, I feel confident and excited about my future in education.