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Tom A.

Calc., Physics, EE (analog, digital design), micro-controller tutoring

Calc., Physics, EE (analog, digital design), micro-controller tutoring

$48/hour

4.9 (541 ratings)

  • 1,860 hours tutoring

About Tom

Bio

I am an Electrical Engineer with work experience at Hughes Aircraft, Boeing (Anaheim), Raytheon, and Freescale Semiconductor (Tempe, AZ). I was working full-time at Freescale Semiconductor (now NXP) in Tempe, and enjoyed tutoring high school and college students, mostly near Tempe and Mesa AZ, but willing to drive further if needed. I'm now back in LA, creating tutoring programs designed for parent or student needs. My tutoring relies heavily on getting the student in the 'driver's seat'...

I am an Electrical Engineer with work experience at Hughes Aircraft, Boeing (Anaheim), Raytheon, and Freescale Semiconductor (Tempe, AZ). I was working full-time at Freescale Semiconductor (now NXP) in Tempe, and enjoyed tutoring high school and college students, mostly near Tempe and Mesa AZ, but willing to drive further if needed. I'm now back in LA, creating tutoring programs designed for parent or student needs. My tutoring relies heavily on getting the student in the 'driver's seat' quickly, with problems that illuminate key concepts. My tutoring style is based on building confidence and joy in the subject, leading to the student's desire to become a life-long learner. I don't recommend cramming, or marathon sessions before a major test - my magic wand is in the shop.

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Education

University of Wisconsin, Madison
Electrical Engineer
University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
Masters
University of Southern Califonria (USC)
Graduate Coursework

Policies

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Subjects

Business

Microsoft PowerPoint

Computer

C++,

C++

I have taken numerous work-supported courses in c++. I have designed programs in c++ for computer graphics and mobile applications. Added to this are several computer science courses in data structures and search techniques that can be readily converted to c++ code. I also program in the 3D programming package called "Unity", which uses C# and C++ as a supporting development language for writing custom code.
Computer Programming,

Computer Programming

After several decades working as an electrical engineer, I am proficient in a number of computer programming languages, including C, C++, C#, Python, and Matlab, including Matlab/simulink. I have used the majority of these languages to simulate and solve problems in digital signal processing and communications. I have also completed an interactive programming class, with distinction, at Rice University. I also design 3D mobile games using "Unity". I have Matlab, C++, C#, and Python on my laptop, and enjoy tutoring and guiding software programmers who reach roadblocks in their software training. My tutoring style is to start from simple problems, to increasing complexity. I emphasize using structured design methods of defining data types, function interfaces, and test cases that provide adequate test coverage and rapid debugging.
Mathematica,

Mathematica

I have been a mathematica user for more than 15 years. I've used it primarily to back up analysis that I've done as a EE using other tools such as matlab or mathcad. The user interface takes some getting used, and I can put together a list of problems and references that should help the student get up to speed. Mathematica is a great tool, that's worth the extra effort it takes to learn. I've used it to solve problems in linear algebra, as well as electromagnetics.
MATLAB,

MATLAB

As a systems engineer with three degrees in EE, MATLAB has been a valuable tool in my career. Since I have a legal copy on my personal laptop, I continue to use it today. I have more than ten years of work experience using it to analyze radar signal processing and satellite communications problems at the old Hughes Aircraft, as well as my work at Boeing helping simulate the patriot missile seeker, both environments using company versions on desktop environments. I am familiar with several of the add-on toolboxes, including dsp and controls.
Microsoft PowerPoint

Corporate Training

C++,

C++

I have taken numerous work-supported courses in c++. I have designed programs in c++ for computer graphics and mobile applications. Added to this are several computer science courses in data structures and search techniques that can be readily converted to c++ code. I also program in the 3D programming package called "Unity", which uses C# and C++ as a supporting development language for writing custom code.
Microsoft PowerPoint

Homeschool

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

As a graduate electrical engineer, algebra has been the cornerstone of much of my college coursework and professional work. I enjoy keeping my skills sharp, and continue to work problems in engineering that make use of algebra for analyzing circuits, performing computer simulations, and tutoring students in math and science courses. As a radar and satellite systems engineer, algebra is key to understanding basic principles of each subject. I continue to complete, with distinction, courses on the coursera website, such as DSP, that require a high comfort level with many key algebraic concepts. Tom
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

As a graduate electrical engineer, algebra 2 has been the cornerstone of much of my college course work and professional work. I enjoy keeping my skills sharp, and continue to work problems in engineering that make use of algebra 2 for analyzing circuits, performing computer simulations, and tutoring students in math and science courses. As a radar and satellite systems engineer, algebra 2 is key to understanding basic principles of each subject. I continue to complete, with distinction, courses on the internet, such as DSP, that require a high comfort level with many key algebraic 2 concepts. Also, now having done more than 100+ tutoring sessions, I've assisted students by showing algebraic solutions to them in real-time, so my algebra 2 skills having definitely gotten a boost.
Calculus,

Calculus

I have three degrees in electrical engineering, two from the University of Wisconsin (Madison), and one from USC. Calculus is a foundational subject for electrical engineering, and I enjoyed taking calculus courses, receiving A's in all my courses. I work in communications and radar, which involves a lot of analysis, using many principles from calculus.
Geometry,

Geometry

I really enjoyed geometry when I first took it in AP high school math. I know how to complete proofs of congruency and similarity of triangles, as an example. I know how to construct problems that use Archimedean geometry, as well as more modern problems. I can construct problems that are easy to visualize, and make the subject matter come to life.
Physics,

Physics

As an electrical engineering major, I had to take a series of four 1-semester physics courses at the University of Wisconsin, known for their Physics Dept. I also took courses in solid state, and Master's level quantum mechanics in the Physics department. My later 2 modern physics courses included both Newtonian mechanics, as well as quantum mechanics, with emphasis on the theory behind the basic particle physics experiments in the early 20th century. I received an 'A' letter grade in these courses. I enjoy designing problems that make it easy for the student to visualize the key physics principles they are attempting to learn.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

As a graduate electrical engineer, prealgebra has been the cornerstone of much of my college course work and professional work. I enjoy keeping my skills sharp, and continue to work problems in engineering that make use of prealgebra for analyzing circuits, performing computer simulations, and tutoring students in math and science courses. As a radar and satellite systems engineer, prealgebra is key to understanding basic principles of each subject. I continue to complete, with distinction, courses on the internet, such as DSP, that require a high comfort level with many key prealgebra concepts.
Precalculus,

Precalculus

I have three degrees in electrical engineering, two from the University of Wisconsin (Madison), and one from USC. Pre-calculus is a foundational subject for electrical engineering, and I enjoyed taking pre-calculus courses, receiving A's in all my courses. I work in communications and radar, which involves a lot of analysis, using many principles from pre-calculus and calculus.
SAT Math

SAT Math

I remember taking the SAT, even though it was a long time ago. Working sample problems is the best way to go into the test with a high level of confidence. These sample problems will also unearth memories of how to look at the more difficult problems.

Math

ACT Math,

ACT Math

As a graduate electrical engineer, ACT math has been the cornerstone of much of my college course work and professional work. I enjoy keeping my skills sharp, and continue to work problems in engineering that make use of ACT math for analyzing circuits, performing computer simulations, and tutoring students in math and science courses. As a radar and satellite systems engineer, ACT math is key to understanding basic principles of each subject. I continue to complete, with distinction, courses on the internet, such as DSP, that require a high comfort level with many key ACT math concepts.
Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

As a graduate electrical engineer, algebra has been the cornerstone of much of my college coursework and professional work. I enjoy keeping my skills sharp, and continue to work problems in engineering that make use of algebra for analyzing circuits, performing computer simulations, and tutoring students in math and science courses. As a radar and satellite systems engineer, algebra is key to understanding basic principles of each subject. I continue to complete, with distinction, courses on the coursera website, such as DSP, that require a high comfort level with many key algebraic concepts. Tom
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

As a graduate electrical engineer, algebra 2 has been the cornerstone of much of my college course work and professional work. I enjoy keeping my skills sharp, and continue to work problems in engineering that make use of algebra 2 for analyzing circuits, performing computer simulations, and tutoring students in math and science courses. As a radar and satellite systems engineer, algebra 2 is key to understanding basic principles of each subject. I continue to complete, with distinction, courses on the internet, such as DSP, that require a high comfort level with many key algebraic 2 concepts. Also, now having done more than 100+ tutoring sessions, I've assisted students by showing algebraic solutions to them in real-time, so my algebra 2 skills having definitely gotten a boost.
Calculus,

Calculus

I have three degrees in electrical engineering, two from the University of Wisconsin (Madison), and one from USC. Calculus is a foundational subject for electrical engineering, and I enjoyed taking calculus courses, receiving A's in all my courses. I work in communications and radar, which involves a lot of analysis, using many principles from calculus.
Differential Equations,

Differential Equations

I took calculus and differential equations courses at the University of Wisconsin, since they were required as part of the electrical engineering curriculum. Later on, my courses in circuits, electromagnetics, and engineering mechanics extended my application of differential equation theory. I learned how to solve differential equations both in the time domain, as well as the laplace transform domain.
Electrical Engineering,

Electrical Engineering

I have three degrees in Electrical Engineering. I have a BSEE and MSEE from the University of Wisconsin (main campus in Madison), and the Engineers Degree (30 credits beyond MSEE). I took courses in dsp, circuits, electromagnetics, and solid state. I taught labs during my master's work in circuits and communications. I also do DIY projects with the Arduino microcontroller.
Geometry,

Geometry

I really enjoyed geometry when I first took it in AP high school math. I know how to complete proofs of congruency and similarity of triangles, as an example. I know how to construct problems that use Archimedean geometry, as well as more modern problems. I can construct problems that are easy to visualize, and make the subject matter come to life.
Linear Algebra,

Linear Algebra

In my electrical engineering studies, I have taken courses in both control theory and digital signal processing. Both courses relied heavily on Linear Algebra that made use of this area in performing matrix and vector computation. I also learned how to apply these concepts in physical applications such as adaptive array modeling for both sonar and radar problems.
Mathematica,

Mathematica

I have been a mathematica user for more than 15 years. I've used it primarily to back up analysis that I've done as a EE using other tools such as matlab or mathcad. The user interface takes some getting used, and I can put together a list of problems and references that should help the student get up to speed. Mathematica is a great tool, that's worth the extra effort it takes to learn. I've used it to solve problems in linear algebra, as well as electromagnetics.
MATLAB,

MATLAB

As a systems engineer with three degrees in EE, MATLAB has been a valuable tool in my career. Since I have a legal copy on my personal laptop, I continue to use it today. I have more than ten years of work experience using it to analyze radar signal processing and satellite communications problems at the old Hughes Aircraft, as well as my work at Boeing helping simulate the patriot missile seeker, both environments using company versions on desktop environments. I am familiar with several of the add-on toolboxes, including dsp and controls.
Physics,

Physics

As an electrical engineering major, I had to take a series of four 1-semester physics courses at the University of Wisconsin, known for their Physics Dept. I also took courses in solid state, and Master's level quantum mechanics in the Physics department. My later 2 modern physics courses included both Newtonian mechanics, as well as quantum mechanics, with emphasis on the theory behind the basic particle physics experiments in the early 20th century. I received an 'A' letter grade in these courses. I enjoy designing problems that make it easy for the student to visualize the key physics principles they are attempting to learn.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

As a graduate electrical engineer, prealgebra has been the cornerstone of much of my college course work and professional work. I enjoy keeping my skills sharp, and continue to work problems in engineering that make use of prealgebra for analyzing circuits, performing computer simulations, and tutoring students in math and science courses. As a radar and satellite systems engineer, prealgebra is key to understanding basic principles of each subject. I continue to complete, with distinction, courses on the internet, such as DSP, that require a high comfort level with many key prealgebra concepts.
Precalculus,

Precalculus

I have three degrees in electrical engineering, two from the University of Wisconsin (Madison), and one from USC. Pre-calculus is a foundational subject for electrical engineering, and I enjoyed taking pre-calculus courses, receiving A's in all my courses. I work in communications and radar, which involves a lot of analysis, using many principles from pre-calculus and calculus.
Probability,

Probability

As an electrical engineer analyzing performance of both airborne radars and satellite payloads, I have modeled radar detection and communication error rates assuming the presence of receiver noise. This work relied heavily on my course work in gaussian random variables. I have also quantified failure rates for electrical units by knowing how to combine failure rates for individual components within the unit.
SAT Math,

SAT Math

I remember taking the SAT, even though it was a long time ago. Working sample problems is the best way to go into the test with a high level of confidence. These sample problems will also unearth memories of how to look at the more difficult problems.
Trigonometry

Trigonometry

My electrical engineering courses and work throughout my career has relied heavily on my fluency in trig functions and their use in circuit theory and electromagnetics.

Most Popular

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

As a graduate electrical engineer, algebra has been the cornerstone of much of my college coursework and professional work. I enjoy keeping my skills sharp, and continue to work problems in engineering that make use of algebra for analyzing circuits, performing computer simulations, and tutoring students in math and science courses. As a radar and satellite systems engineer, algebra is key to understanding basic principles of each subject. I continue to complete, with distinction, courses on the coursera website, such as DSP, that require a high comfort level with many key algebraic concepts. Tom
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

As a graduate electrical engineer, algebra 2 has been the cornerstone of much of my college course work and professional work. I enjoy keeping my skills sharp, and continue to work problems in engineering that make use of algebra 2 for analyzing circuits, performing computer simulations, and tutoring students in math and science courses. As a radar and satellite systems engineer, algebra 2 is key to understanding basic principles of each subject. I continue to complete, with distinction, courses on the internet, such as DSP, that require a high comfort level with many key algebraic 2 concepts. Also, now having done more than 100+ tutoring sessions, I've assisted students by showing algebraic solutions to them in real-time, so my algebra 2 skills having definitely gotten a boost.
Calculus,

Calculus

I have three degrees in electrical engineering, two from the University of Wisconsin (Madison), and one from USC. Calculus is a foundational subject for electrical engineering, and I enjoyed taking calculus courses, receiving A's in all my courses. I work in communications and radar, which involves a lot of analysis, using many principles from calculus.
Geometry,

Geometry

I really enjoyed geometry when I first took it in AP high school math. I know how to complete proofs of congruency and similarity of triangles, as an example. I know how to construct problems that use Archimedean geometry, as well as more modern problems. I can construct problems that are easy to visualize, and make the subject matter come to life.
Physics,

Physics

As an electrical engineering major, I had to take a series of four 1-semester physics courses at the University of Wisconsin, known for their Physics Dept. I also took courses in solid state, and Master's level quantum mechanics in the Physics department. My later 2 modern physics courses included both Newtonian mechanics, as well as quantum mechanics, with emphasis on the theory behind the basic particle physics experiments in the early 20th century. I received an 'A' letter grade in these courses. I enjoy designing problems that make it easy for the student to visualize the key physics principles they are attempting to learn.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

As a graduate electrical engineer, prealgebra has been the cornerstone of much of my college course work and professional work. I enjoy keeping my skills sharp, and continue to work problems in engineering that make use of prealgebra for analyzing circuits, performing computer simulations, and tutoring students in math and science courses. As a radar and satellite systems engineer, prealgebra is key to understanding basic principles of each subject. I continue to complete, with distinction, courses on the internet, such as DSP, that require a high comfort level with many key prealgebra concepts.
Precalculus

Precalculus

I have three degrees in electrical engineering, two from the University of Wisconsin (Madison), and one from USC. Pre-calculus is a foundational subject for electrical engineering, and I enjoyed taking pre-calculus courses, receiving A's in all my courses. I work in communications and radar, which involves a lot of analysis, using many principles from pre-calculus and calculus.

Science

Electrical Engineering,

Electrical Engineering

I have three degrees in Electrical Engineering. I have a BSEE and MSEE from the University of Wisconsin (main campus in Madison), and the Engineers Degree (30 credits beyond MSEE). I took courses in dsp, circuits, electromagnetics, and solid state. I taught labs during my master's work in circuits and communications. I also do DIY projects with the Arduino microcontroller.
Physics

Physics

As an electrical engineering major, I had to take a series of four 1-semester physics courses at the University of Wisconsin, known for their Physics Dept. I also took courses in solid state, and Master's level quantum mechanics in the Physics department. My later 2 modern physics courses included both Newtonian mechanics, as well as quantum mechanics, with emphasis on the theory behind the basic particle physics experiments in the early 20th century. I received an 'A' letter grade in these courses. I enjoy designing problems that make it easy for the student to visualize the key physics principles they are attempting to learn.

Summer

Algebra 1,

Algebra 1

As a graduate electrical engineer, algebra has been the cornerstone of much of my college coursework and professional work. I enjoy keeping my skills sharp, and continue to work problems in engineering that make use of algebra for analyzing circuits, performing computer simulations, and tutoring students in math and science courses. As a radar and satellite systems engineer, algebra is key to understanding basic principles of each subject. I continue to complete, with distinction, courses on the coursera website, such as DSP, that require a high comfort level with many key algebraic concepts. Tom
Algebra 2,

Algebra 2

As a graduate electrical engineer, algebra 2 has been the cornerstone of much of my college course work and professional work. I enjoy keeping my skills sharp, and continue to work problems in engineering that make use of algebra 2 for analyzing circuits, performing computer simulations, and tutoring students in math and science courses. As a radar and satellite systems engineer, algebra 2 is key to understanding basic principles of each subject. I continue to complete, with distinction, courses on the internet, such as DSP, that require a high comfort level with many key algebraic 2 concepts. Also, now having done more than 100+ tutoring sessions, I've assisted students by showing algebraic solutions to them in real-time, so my algebra 2 skills having definitely gotten a boost.
Calculus,

Calculus

I have three degrees in electrical engineering, two from the University of Wisconsin (Madison), and one from USC. Calculus is a foundational subject for electrical engineering, and I enjoyed taking calculus courses, receiving A's in all my courses. I work in communications and radar, which involves a lot of analysis, using many principles from calculus.
Geometry,

Geometry

I really enjoyed geometry when I first took it in AP high school math. I know how to complete proofs of congruency and similarity of triangles, as an example. I know how to construct problems that use Archimedean geometry, as well as more modern problems. I can construct problems that are easy to visualize, and make the subject matter come to life.
Physics,

Physics

As an electrical engineering major, I had to take a series of four 1-semester physics courses at the University of Wisconsin, known for their Physics Dept. I also took courses in solid state, and Master's level quantum mechanics in the Physics department. My later 2 modern physics courses included both Newtonian mechanics, as well as quantum mechanics, with emphasis on the theory behind the basic particle physics experiments in the early 20th century. I received an 'A' letter grade in these courses. I enjoy designing problems that make it easy for the student to visualize the key physics principles they are attempting to learn.
SAT Math

SAT Math

I remember taking the SAT, even though it was a long time ago. Working sample problems is the best way to go into the test with a high level of confidence. These sample problems will also unearth memories of how to look at the more difficult problems.

Test Preparation

ACT Math,

ACT Math

As a graduate electrical engineer, ACT math has been the cornerstone of much of my college course work and professional work. I enjoy keeping my skills sharp, and continue to work problems in engineering that make use of ACT math for analyzing circuits, performing computer simulations, and tutoring students in math and science courses. As a radar and satellite systems engineer, ACT math is key to understanding basic principles of each subject. I continue to complete, with distinction, courses on the internet, such as DSP, that require a high comfort level with many key ACT math concepts.
SAT Math

SAT Math

I remember taking the SAT, even though it was a long time ago. Working sample problems is the best way to go into the test with a high level of confidence. These sample problems will also unearth memories of how to look at the more difficult problems.

Ratings and Reviews

Rating

4.9 (541 ratings)
5 star
(517)
4 star
(18)
3 star
(3)
2 star
(0)
1 star
(3)

Reviews

Show reviews that mention

All reviews patient understanding great tutor highly recommend explains concepts

Featured review

Patient, Responsive, and Knowledgeable Tutor

Tom is an amazing and a really patient tutor! He's also fun to work with (very funny person too!) and is knowledgeable about electrical engineering. We went over some homework problems together and he makes sure that we get them done. He takes time to review the material and does his best in assignments, even under time pressure. I highly recommend him! He also responds and messages people right away so if you ever need immediate help, he'll do his best to accommodate!

Clara, 1 lesson with Tom

Knowledgeable, patient, and a fun tutor

I wish I found him sooner. He is always ready to help you as much as he can. If you need any help with EE topics like plotting and coding the waveforms in MATLAB, he is the guy. Although, he was not familiar with my area of study, he was ready to understand the subject and helped me out a lot. He also responds to your messages right away and is pretty flexible. He's a fun tutor to work with and I'm so glad I found him.

Esme, 1 lesson with Tom

Review for Tom A

Tom was diligent and hardworking in helping me learn both Mathematica and economics. I went from no programming experience in Mathematica to being able to solve all the problems on my own after just a few sessions! He always made time and worked very hard outside of sessions to prepare--one of the best tutors I've had!

Lane, 4 lessons with Tom

Great Professor and Patient

Tom was helpful and professional during our session. He explains everything steps by step and made me understand the material. He solved the problem and his results were the perfect match.

Karifa, 1 lesson with Tom

Knowledgeable

Was concerned if i understood the material. Went through the steps i needed to understand. Was patient and made sure all my questions were answered. He was aware when i needed my homework to be done by. He responded quickly to my request for my tutoring.

Elisa, 1 lesson with Tom

Very interesting and capable tutor: great lessons

Tom was a fantastic tutor, who assisted me in MATLAB lessons. He was very knowledgable about the material, made the information easy to understand, and also had fantastic conversational skills. I would wholeheartedly recommend him for any material he specializes in, especially MATLAB.

AJ, 4 lessons with Tom

Knowledgeable

Tom is patient and knowledgeable and he makes sure that you understand the topic before moving to the next step. He will go as slow as you want to I really enjoyed my session

Parissa, 5 lessons with Tom

Helpful and willing to work with me

Tom was very willing to work with me and to help me through some very challenging problems in electromagnetics. He was very patient and his style was conducive to me learning.

Jason, 1 lesson with Tom

Patient and Knowledgable

Helped me with nested for loops in Matlab and Python. He also showed me how to debug in Matlab. I plan on working with Tom again. He is an electrical engineer and knows his stuff.

Isaac, 5 lessons with Tom

Great teacher

Tom is very efficient in providing the knowledge in a way anyone can feel comfortable in any electrical engineering design. Very patient, professional, and passionate about teaching. Would definitely recommend to anyone that needs help with challenging electrical engineering problems

Karl, 1 lesson with Tom
Contact Tom

Response time: 2 hours

$48/hour

Tom A.'s Photo

Tom A.

$48/hour

  • No subscriptions or upfront payments

  • Only pay for the time you need

  • Find the right fit, or your first hour is free

Contact Tom

Response time: 2 hours