Program: Welding Technology
Education/Industry
Certifications: Associate of Applied Science degree, Welding Technology, SCC; American Welding Society Certified welder; AWS Certified Welding Inspector
Has Taught at SCC Since: 1998
Years of Work Experience Outside SCC: 2
Describe your teaching philosophy.
Students have different learning styles, so as an instructor it is important that I use different teaching styles to ensure that each student is getting the most out of each class. I also try to challenge each student so that they can reach their full potential.
Why did you decide to teach at a community college?
My desire to help others in welding actually started when I was a student. Helping fellow classmates was always rewarding. I also helped teach an automotive welding class while I was a student, so teaching was something I enjoyed and pursued.
What can prospective students expect when they enroll in your program?
The Welding Technology program has just recently gone through a complete remodel. So a student enrolling in the program will be using modern equipment, new welding booths and will be working in a nearly smoke-free environment thanks to a new ventilation system. The students also will have the pleasure of learning from instructors who have worked in many areas of welding, manufacturing and inspection.
What experiences outside of SCC do you bring to the classroom/laboratory that enhance student learning?
I have owned and operated my own CNC plasma cutting system for the past 15 years. This has allowed me to stay current on the latest trends and technology in this area. This has aided in the development of curriculum and equipment purchases for the welding program, which helps enhance student learning.
What advice do you have for students pursuing a degree in your program?
Welding can be a great career, and the welding program provides the resources you need to become successful in the welding industry. You need to take advantage of everything available to you while you are a student and get the most out of it.
What do you enjoy most about working with students?
Watching a student progress from never welding in their life, to becoming an AWS certified welder.
What is the best part about being an SCC faculty member?
I have enjoyed working with my coworkers over the past 15 years and have met a lot of great people. I also get to work in a great facility with modern equipment.
What has been your proudest moment as an instructor?
I think as a teacher it’s hard to pick just one. Every time a student masters a skill or accomplishes something they thought they couldn’t is a proud moment for me.
What do you like to do when you're not teaching?
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, working around my acreage and fishing as much as possible.
What would students be surprised to know about you?
A lot of students who come into the program assume that I’m from Lincoln. I actually grew up in a small town in northeast Nebraska with a population of about 700 people, and my graduating class had fewer than 30 people.