In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens continues the alumni series with Neeya Toleman, a graduate of Coram Deo Academy in Texas who now works as an engineer helping develop major power transmission lines across the United States.
Neeya shares how her classical Christian education shaped her ability to think deeply, communicate clearly, and tackle complex problems. From memorizing Scripture and presenting senior author projects to navigating small class communities and rigorous coursework, her experience formed habits that still guide her today in the demanding world of engineering and energy infrastructure.
Along the way, Neeya reflects on the unique strengths of classical Christian education. She discusses the value of learning how to learn, the importance of strong relationships between teachers and students, and how schools, homes, and churches work together to shape faith and character.
Her story offers an encouraging reminder that classical Christian education prepares students not only for the humanities but also for careers in fields like engineering, science, and technology.
🎧 Tune in to hear:
- How a classical Christian education prepared Neeya for a career in engineering
- Why learning how to think and learn matters more than specialized early training
- The impact of close relationships with teachers and mentors in small school communities
- How faith formation happened naturally across classes and conversations
- Practical reflections for school leaders and parents investing in the next generation
Whether you are a parent, educator, or school leader, Neeya’s story is a powerful example of what long-term formation can produce, Listen now and be encouraged by what happens when classical Christian education shapes a life.
Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:
Wisdom and Eloquence
The Herzog Foundation
The Champion Group
Wisephone by Techless
ZipCast
Wilson Hill Academy
Neeya Toleman currently works as an engineer at a utility company helping develop new transmission lines across the United States and has spent her career in the energy space. She is a graduate of John Brown University (AR) and Coram Deo Academy (TX), the latter of which is a classical Christian school where she attended grades 1-12. Based in Florida, she enjoys traveling, hobby DIY projects, and volunteering in her community and church.
Connect with Neeya: