From Computer Scientist to Educator: Leveraging AI to Expand STEM Education and Support the Warfighter

By Brittny Odoms, Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division Public Affairs

BETHESDA, Md. - Dr. Shane Wines, an educator and computer scientist, is leveraging his academic background and passion for technology to expand computer science education and support future national security missions.

Wines, one of this year's Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellows, holds a bachelor's degree in computer science from Coastal Carolina University, a Master of Arts in leadership in teaching from Notre Dame of Maryland University and an Ed. D. in instructional technology from the American College of Education.

Born and raised in Calvert County, Maryland, Wines overcame a difficult childhood, spending his high school career homeless and living with his best friend's family. His friend's father, an engineer at Naval Air Station Patuxent River (Pax River), ignited Wines' interest in computers by teaching the boys how to take apart and build them.

As someone who initially thought college was financially out of reach, Wines began his journey after discovering opportunities for tuition-free higher education. After obtaining his bachelors in 2013, Wines struggled to find a job. At a friend's suggestion, he began substitute teaching seventh and eighth grade science in 2015.

His colleagues and supervisor quickly picked up on his natural teaching ability and the rapport he built with the students, encouraging him to pursue the profession full time. Wines earned his teaching certificate and a master's degree in 2017, then taught at Calvert High School in Calvert County for 10 years.

During his first two years teaching, Wines accepted an offer to launch a computer science pathway for students. He transformed the program, growing his course from the school's smallest Advanced Placement class to its largest and founding multiple computer science clubs.

After learning about the Einstein Fellowship from Ellen Servetnick, the K-12 education outreach program manager at Pax River, Wines applied and was accepted.

Throughout his career, he has concentrated on exposing students to computer science, artificial intelligence (AI) and engineering while strengthening existing curricula and creating new educational opportunities.

"I've been focused on wanting to support the mission and support the warfighter," Wines said. "A lot of that comes from exposing more students to the potential of being a computer scientist or engineer."

Wines recently designed and launched an educational video game that introduces students to foundational AI concepts through an interactive, Navy-themed experience. The game teaches heuristics - simple rule-based decision-making - by allowing players to code an AI advisor that determines whether to collect data, upload it to a naval ship, or evade enemy forces.

The game launched approximately one month ago and recorded more than 4,000 activity starts in its first week, exceeding 5,000 to date. The platform tracks engagement through Code.org, providing insight into the game's global use.

Beyond coding, the game introduces players to three naval career fields: robotic warfare specialists who work with unmanned underwater vehicles, sonar technicians and oceanographers. As students' progress, they learn about the history and purpose of underwater drones, sensor technologies and system interaction.

"The cool thing about the game is it introduces students to real naval careers while they're learning computer science and AI," Wines said.

Wines also aims to expand AI literacy among adults, including developing foundational training resources. He noted the growing importance of understanding generative AI tools and strengthening skills such as prompt engineering.

Wines is scheduled to complete his fellowship in July 2026. During his tenure at Carderock, he has already contributed significantly to educational tools and outreach initiatives.

While Wines values classroom teaching and recognizes the nationwide shortage of computer science educators, he is considering leadership roles that would make a broader impact. Potential paths include directing an educational organization, supporting government education initiatives or returning to work as a computer scientist.

"I love teaching," Wines said. "But I also see an opportunity to support and help a lot more people by working at a higher level."

Outside of work, Wines spends time with his 1-year-old daughter, incorporating Montessori-style learning and swimming lessons and story time into their daily routine. He also enjoys spending time outdoors near Solomons Island collaborating with fellow engineers and scientists and continues his own learning through robotics and simulation projects.

"You should never stop learning," Wines said. "A lot of what I do feels like work, but it's also fun because I'm constantly exploring new tools and thinking about how they can be used."

Wines said his ultimate goal remains focused on impact - preparing the next generation with the skills needed to meet future challenges while supporting the broader mission.

Explore Dr. Wines AI online game, Drone Command: Operation Uplink here - https://csforall.org/en-US/activities/hour-of-ai?term=drone%20command&