About Me

Hi, I’m Matt Starolis. By trade, I’m an engineer; by nature, I’m a problem solver. My path has always been about tackling challenges, connecting the dots, and figuring out how to make things better.

I started out as a computer engineer at the University of Texas, diving deep into systems and spotting patterns that others might miss. From there, my journey took me to Silicon Valley, where I worked in tech, started a cybersecurity company, founded an investment advisory firm, and eventually led teams at Microsoft. Somewhere along the way, I realized my favorite part of the process wasn’t just solving problems—it was showing others how to do it, too.

Now, I bring that same mindset to education. Whether I’m teaching math, science, or programming, my goal is the same: to help students think critically, solve problems, and build confidence in their abilities. It’s about more than improving grades (though that’s a nice bonus); it’s about giving students the tools they need to tackle whatever challenges come their way.

What Makes My Approach Different

I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all teaching. Every student is unique, so I adapt my methods to meet them where they are. I’m constantly refining what I do—whether it’s seeking feedback directly or analyzing hours of class recordings with AI to find ways to improve. Teaching is an iterative process, and I approach it with the same precision and curiosity that I brought to engineering and tech.

More than anything, I see teaching as modern problem-solving. It’s about helping students understand their own thought processes, break down complex ideas, and approach challenges with confidence and clarity.

The Bigger Picture

Education has the power to change lives, and I believe we’re standing at an incredible moment in history. With tools like AI, we have a real opportunity to make education more personal and effective than ever before. My background in engineering, business, and teaching gives me a unique perspective, and I’m excited to keep exploring how we can push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Outside the Classroom

When I’m not teaching, you’ll find me exploring new AI applications, tinkering with amateur radio, or spending time with my dogs. I’m always chasing connections between ideas, whether it’s a new technology or a different perspective on an old problem.

Let’s Connect

If you’re interested in the future of education, how technology is shaping the classroom, or just want to talk about solving hard problems, feel free to reach out. You can reach me at matt@starol.is—I’d love to hear from you.