Inspire 2026 Faculty on Professional Writing for High School and Beyond Summer Course
"I will guide them through writing, but the newest writing comes from and sounds like the author themselves." - Kate Main
Professional Writing for High School and Beyond applies the broad field of writing to various different real-world tasks and industries. Read about different ways in which writing can be applied to the workplace here. Below, meet Kate Main, the instructor for Summer 2026!
Meet Professor Kate Main:
Q: Tell us about your journey into the world of career and technical writing and how you developed your expertise in the field?
A: Growing up, my dad is/was an engineer and as I became interested in reading and writing he emphasized to me the ability to communicate across disciplines. When I entered college, I took up a minor in Technical Writing and started taking classes about science writing, resume and cover letter building, and chemistry bridged with literature. These courses at Penn State University, in addition to the constant support from my dad, shaped the foundation of my career and technical writing knowledge. Since college, I have worked for two different companies —one marketing/branding focused, the other in a technical setting/proposal writing— which have added to the original foundation of knowledge. I now teach high school English where I implement and teach practical writing skills across disciplines every day with my students.
Q: What knowledge and skills can students expect to learn in Professional Writing for High School and Beyond this summer?
A: Students can expect to learn and develop the skills to complete different real-world writing tasks such as resumes and cover letters, email etiquette, STEAM writing, and personal statements. Additionally, I will also discuss AI and its impact across disciplines, specifically writing. Students will leave with a broad exploration of practical writing, and a writing portfolio with templates and examples which they can refer to and utilize as they embark on their journey through and beyond high school.
Q: Do students need a background in technical writing to be successful in this class?
A: No! In fact, I do not expect anyone will have a large background in it. A lot of this course is learning new ways to shape our writing, or looking ahead at future endeavors and careers and how best to communicate with others/share our writing in that field. All you need to be successful in this course is a curious mind, attitude, and approach to writing.
Q: What advice do you have for students interested in taking Professional Writing for High School and Beyond this summer?
A: Come ready to share your interests and what makes you, you. I will help you tailor your writing to fit your current and future interests while also teaching you practical and professional skills that you will use daily throughout the rest of high school and in your adult life. We want your writing to sound like you, but we also want it to read clear and concise. Simplicity is key.
Q: What are you most looking forward to about Inspire this summer?
A: I am most looking forward to meeting each of my students and getting to know them on a personal level, and getting to know their writing voices. Yes, I will guide them through writing, but the best writing comes from and sounds like the author themselves—so I look forward to supporting and watching them craft their voices in a professional and practical manner.