Grzeda Recognized as a Next Generation Technology Leader

Nick Grzeda, LCPS’ Computer Science Supervisor, has been selected as a 2022 Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC) NextGen Leader.

NVTC, a trade association representing the national capital region’s technology community, annually honors companies, executives, and leaders who are driving technology innovation and implementing new solutions. This year’s NVTC Tech 100 list includes 71 tech companies, 23 executives, and 6 emerging leaders who, according to NVTC’s press release, “consistently demonstrate dedication, vision, and innovation.” Among the emerging leaders, Grzeda is the only educator.

Grzeda was nominated by Grant Shafer, LCPS’ Community Connections Supervisor, and Danielle Nadler, Executive Director of Loudoun Education Foundation.

Shafer said that as soon as he heard of the NVTC next generation leader award, his first thought was of Grzeda, who began his career with LCPS as an English teacher.

“Ever since he was a teacher,” said Shafer, “Nick required his students to embrace technology, learn it and use it daily because he knew technology would be their future. Nick’s vision and planning are what caught the attention of LCPS’ senior leadership, who tapped him to be LCPS’ first computer science supervisor and to help bring computational thinking to the curriculum. In my opinion, Nick has been and always will be cutting-edge.” 

For Nadler, it was Grzeda’s communication skills and approachability that qualified him for the award.

“Learning about new technology and how to integrate it into lessons can be intimidating,” said Nadler referring the 2017 Virginia mandate requiring all K-8 teachers to integrate computer science into their curriculum. “Nick does an excellent job of communicating with teachers and helping them accomplish this task.”

Grzeda and other NVTC honorees were recognized at the NVTC Tech 100 Celebration on Tuesday, Dec. 6 at Capital One Hall in Tysons Corner. 

Published December 14, 2022