Unlock the College Classroom and Make a Lasting Impact
Are you a working professional intrigued by the idea of teaching college students but uncertain about stepping into the role of an adjunct professor? The Contingent Professor: Advice for Adjuncts offers a no-nonsense, insider’s guide to transforming your knowledge and experience into effective, impactful teaching.
Drawing from insights shared in The Contingent Professor podcast, Daniel Martínez and Robert Sanford bring you straight talk, and actionable advice collected from years in the trenches of higher education. This book covers everything an aspiring adjunct needs to know—from engaging students and designing insightful lessons to navigating the academic world as a part-time instructor.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional, new to teaching, or already a full-time faculty member looking to deepen your impact, The Contingent Professor offers practical strategies to help you overcome challenges, inspire students, and thrive in the classroom. This book empowers you to leave a lasting impact on the next generation of professionals while adding new dimensions to your own career, making every teaching moment meaningful and rewarding.
About the Author
Daniel Martínez has a PhD in chemical engineering and was associate research professor of Environmental Science and Policy at the University of Southern Maine. He has worked at NASA, at an international energy nonprofit, and currently is an independent researcher, technical consultant, and a tabletop game developer.
Robert Sanford has a PhD in environmental science and is emeritus professor of Environmental Science and Policy at the University of Southern Maine. He was a registered professional archaeologist in a consulting partnership and has worked in government as an environmental planner.
Martínez and Sanford have decades of experience as faculty adjuncts and part-timers at seven different institutions in addition to having held fulltime tenure track and research track academic positions. Their previous book topics include archaeology, applied environmental science, and energy systems.
