Dennis Paniza (Mr. Paniza) spent 20 years working as a satellite communications and electronics engineer in the US Air Force (2002–2022) before bringing his love for technology to Culver City. 

Mr. Paniza received his degrees in Electronics Engineering Technology from the ITT Technical Institute and the Community College of the Air Force. After earning his teaching credentials in California, he began his career as an Engineering and Architecture teacher with LAUSD before joining the Culver City Unified School District. 

Passionate about inspiring the next generation of innovators, he serves as the AP Cybersecurity teacher and the middle and high school CTE Robotics teacher. Additionally, he leads the FIRST Robotics program as the robotics head coach for the elementary, middle, and high schools, guiding students through hands-on technical challenges. 

Outside of his commitment to CTE/STEM education, Mr. Paniza enjoys hiking, surfing, traveling the world, and spending time with his beautiful wife. They have two teens, a wire-haired dachshund named Ruffles, and a tuxedo cat named Miu.