Mark Hefner | Computer Science & Digital Literacy Lead
Nakornpayap International School

Mark Hefner Subject Lead for ICT & Languages | Staff Representative | Nakornpayap International School Mark Hefner is a veteran educator and technical innovator at Nakornpayap International School (NIS) in Chiang Mai, Thailand, where he leads the intersection of AI orchestration, digital literacy, and practical engineering. As the Subject Lead for ICT and Languages, Mark is currently pioneering the integration of "vibe coding" into the curriculum—empowering students to move beyond traditional syntax by leveraging natural language and AI-driven development. From Systems Engineering to Educational Leadership Mark’s professional journey is rooted in high-stakes technical precision, having served 20 years in the United States military (1983–2003). His background as a Nuclear Weapons Specialist and Patriot Missile System Repairer provides him with a unique perspective on complex systems, which he now translates into the educational landscape. Mark holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Teaching and Technology, an MBA, and a degree in International Business Management, allowing him to bridge the gap between pedagogical theory and organizational efficiency. The "Maker" Practitioner At NIS, Mark is known for his hands-on approach to technology. Whether he is designing functional 3D-printed tools in Onshape, configuring DIY solar power systems, or manual-roasting coffee for school community events, his work is driven by a "learning by doing" philosophy. He is currently focused on utilizing Google AI Studio and NotebookLM to build custom AI tutors and automate educational workflows, demonstrating how teachers can use emerging tech to reclaim time and enhance student outcomes. Culture & Advocacy Beyond the computer lab, Mark serves as the Teacher Representative for NIS staff and is a key figure in Student Affairs, where he manages school culture and discipline through a lens of systems thinking. He is dedicated to equipping students with the digital fluency required to navigate—and lead—in an AI-augmented world.