Frank Stec

Associate Teaching Professor at Penn State University

: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankstec

About Me

  • Dynamic educator and accomplished professional with a Ph.D. in Rhetoric Criticism and Theory, bringing over a decade of experience in higher education and communication research.
  • My research and teaching interests centered on understanding what skills the public needs to become better engaged in the democratic process.
  • Adept at developing innovative curricula, fostering critical thinking, and inspiring student engagement across diverse learning environments.
  • Complementing academic expertise with hands-on experience in the cycling industry, achieving measurable success in inventory management, customer service, and operational efficiency.

Work Experience

Associate Teaching Professor
- Penn State University
  • Developed and implemented curricula to improve students’ qualitative analysis and writing skills, from introductory courses (CAS 100) to advanced special topics (CAS 478).
  • Successfully presented original research at top-tier conferences, recognized for effectively translating complex concepts to both specialized and general audiences.
  • Led research projects, managing short- and long-term studies that contributed to advancements in rhetorical theory and communication practices.
  • Organized research and writing submissions for professors I assisted, using multiple databases and knowledge management systems.
  • Consistently received outstanding student evaluations, with feedback highlighting the ability to inspire passion and critical thinking while fostering an engaging learning environment, for both college-aged and adult learners.
  • Designed and launched an online version of CAS 301: Introduction to Rhetorical Theory for World Campus, significantly increasing course accessibility and engagement for online students.
  • Recognized for equipping students with critical thinking skills that not only prepare them for their careers but also promote active and informed citizenship.
8/2014
Bellingham, Washington, United States
Service Manager
- SEATTLE ELECTRIC BIKE
  • Led the service department operations, enhancing the customer experience by integrating sales and service seamlessly.
  • Boosted communication efficiency with customers, resulting in a 30% increase in customer retention for service-related issues.
  • Maintained a 95% on-time completion rate for tune-ups, significantly reducing customer wait times.
  • Independently performed over 200 service tasks, including advanced repairs like electric motor swaps and precision adjustments, contributing to the overall service department's revenue growth.
  • Improved service scheduling accuracy, which led to a 15% improvement in shop efficiency and a higher volume of work orders processed.
6/2023 - 10/2023
Cycling Expert
- CURATED
  • Ranked in the top 15% of Bicycle Experts on the platform, consistently achieving sales targets and exceeding client expectations.
  • Maintained a 5-star review average, reflecting exceptional customer service and expert guidance.
  • Successfully operated in a 100% remote role, providing personalized cycling advice and product recommendations through Curated's online platform.
  • Increased sales conversions by 20% through tailored consultations that matched customers with ideal bikes, accessories, and parts.
  • Developed strong relationships with both provided and organic leads, resulting in a 25% increase in repeat business and referrals.
  • Created customized cycling recommendations that contributed to customer satisfaction and repeat purchases, generating an 18% increase in sales revenue.
  • Collaborated with vendors nationwide to ensure consistent access to inventory, enabling faster customer order fulfillment.
1/2022 - 4/2023
Doctoral Candidate, Teaching Assistant
- Penn State University
8/2009 - 5/2014
Teaching Assistant
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
/2007 - /2009
Stock Counts Supervisor, Portable Electronics Specialist, Product Process
- Best Buy
/2005 - /2009

Education

PhD in Communication (Rhetoric)
2009 - 2013
Penn State University
M.A. in Communication
2007 - 2009
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
B.S. in Media Studies
2000 - 2004
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
B.A. in Political Science
2000 - 2004
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign