Anthony Lincoln is shaping futures as the Computer Information Systems (CIS) instructor at the Allegan Area ESA Tech Center. With over a decade of experience in his field and 11 years of teaching under his belt, Lincoln combines his professional expertise with a passion for education, equipping students with the skills and certifications they need to thrive in an ever-changing technological landscape.
Before joining the Tech Center, Lincoln spent 10 years in the business world, helping grow a small business from the ground up. His work spanned marketing, website development, and production management—key areas that laid the foundation for his teaching. With a degree in Secondary Education with a concentration in Business from Western Michigan University, he made the leap to teaching to guide the next generation of professionals.
Lincoln’s approach to teaching focuses on more than technical knowledge. He sees his role as a launchpad for students' futures, whether they pursue college, the workforce, or the military. “The most rewarding part of teaching is helping students take the first steps toward a successful and impactful life post-high school,” he explains. His humility shines through when asked about the legacy he hopes to leave: “I don’t want or need to leave a legacy. My goal is to help my students start creating their own legacies.”
Teaching at the Tech Center comes with its challenges, including navigating the schedules of seven local school districts. Lincoln meets these obstacles with flexibility, providing students with tools to succeed both in the classroom and at home. His professional background shapes his teaching style, ensuring students understand how their learning translates to real-world applications. “Connecting what a student is learning to why and how they will use these skills after high school allows students to engage in their education in a way they never have before,” Lincoln says.
Lincoln’s influence extends beyond the classroom. His students earn industry-recognized certifications—over 100 last year alone—and go on to apply these skills, working for local employers such as Perrigo, Allegan County, and area schools. It is also worth mentioning that there is zero cost to the student to obtain these certifications. He views his work as an investment in the local economy, preparing students to become successful and contributing members of the community.
For those considering a career in Computer Information Systems, Lincoln offers simple but sage advice: “Be ready to learn. A career in CIS is ever-changing, so learning never stops.”
Outside the classroom, Lincoln has a personal mission: to visit all 50 states with his daughters before they graduate high school. With 27 states checked off the list, this family adventure reflects the same forward-thinking and goal-setting mindset he instills in his students.
Through his teaching, Lincoln is helping students not just acquire technical knowledge but also build confidence, adaptability, and a sense of purpose. With certifications in hand and lessons that extend far beyond technology, his students are well-prepared to contribute to their communities—and to begin crafting legacies of their own.