Shamai’s journey with CIJE began in 10th grade when he enrolled in TABC’s engineering program, led by the inspiring Rabbi Aryeh Tiefunbrunn—fondly known as “Rav Tief.” Over three years, Shamai immersed himself in project-based learning, mastering skills like 3D printing, woodworking, circuitry, and design. These weren’t just technical lessons; they were experiences that fostered creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.

Through capstone projects and robotics competitions in Manhattan, Shamai gained critical hands-on experience. Reflecting on his time in the program, he shared:

“The hands-on learning was invaluable. Rav Tief encouraged creativity, teamwork, and leadership, and those lessons have stuck with me. The projects we worked on and the skills I gained—like soldering and wiring—weren’t just preparation for college but also preparation for life.”

One of the program’s highlights was Innovation Day—a showcase where students presented their projects to peers, educators, and industry professionals. For Shamai, it was more than just an exhibition; it was a confidence-building experience that celebrated creative problem-solving and teamwork.

For Rabbi Aryeh Tiefenbrunn, Director of STEM and Educational Technology at Torah Academy of Bergen County (TABC), works closely with his mentor to bring CIJE programs to life for his students. Seeing students like Shamai thrive is deeply fulfilling. 

“Shamai has always impressed me with his quiet determination and courage to tackle any challenge,” Rabbi Tiefenbrunn shares. “His projects were always insightfully designed – including a glove with a built-in heart rate sensor and a vibration-based baby monitor for deaf parents. He carefully considered the end user’s needs in everything he created.”

Now a first-year engineering student, Shamai is already reaping the benefits of his high school experience. In a poll of his introductory engineering class of 380 students, only about 14—including Shamai—had significant hands-on engineering experience prior to college. This head start has given him an edge in both coursework and collaborative projects.

“Thanks to CIJE,” Shamai noted, “I feel confident tackling challenges and leading teams. The program gave me a head start that I’m incredibly grateful for.” He emphasized how project-based learning equipped him with critical teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills that set him apart from his peers.

While many students enter college with little practical experience, Shamai credits CIJE for familiarizing him with essential engineering techniques like soldering, wiring, and fabrication: “It’s made a huge difference.”

Shamai’s story is a testament to the transformative power of CIJE programs. By combining technical skills with real-world applications, CIJE fosters creativity, leadership, and confidence—qualities that stay with students far beyond the classroom.

“The project experience I gained at TABC was a huge deal,” Shamai emphasized. “It wasn’t just about learning skills; it was about applying them in real-world situations. That’s something I carry with me every day.”

Through stories like Shamai’s, it’s clear that CIJE is a launchpad for students to achieve their dreams and make meaningful contributions to the world.