Program: Building Construction Technology
Education/Industry Certifications: Associate of Applied Science degree from Southeast Community College
Has Taught at SCC Since: 2014
Years of Work Experience Outside SCC: SCC: 6 years
Describe your teaching philosophy.
I like to take a practical approach to the content and always find a way to connect any material being taught to a real-life situation. The construction trade is one that is best learned through experiences, either personally or by others. There is a lesson to be learned out of every situation, whether good or bad!
Why did you decide to teach at a community college?
As a past graduate of the Building Construction Technology and Architectural-Engineering Technology programs on the Milford Campus, I valued the quality of education I received. I realized how passionate the instructors and staff were in their roles helping students on the path to a very rewarding future. Having pride in the education I received and seeing just how far you can go with it, I wanted to be part of helping students in their educational journey to a great career.
What can prospective students expect when they enroll in your program?
The Building Construction Technology program classes are very diverse in content and projects. This is the best way to truly prepare our students for the future. The construction industry is ever-changing, and daily duties will vary. With connection to the wide array of jobs and duties in the industry and broad class content, we prepare our students for real-life experiences in the field. We also help the students decide what types of careers are best suited for them based on personal and employment goals they may have.
What experiences outside of SCC do you bring to the classroom/laboratory that enhance student learning?
I have worked on both the design and field side of the construction process. I feel that with that experience I take a very practical approach when problem solving. I also spent countless hours volunteering for many different organizations, which has helped me tremendously in working with diverse situations and people.
What advice do you have for students pursuing a degree in your program?
The best advice I could give would be to prepare mentally for the need to excel and push to be the best in the industry. They need to be able to produce quality work that in the end a customer would be willing to purchase. This program is designed to open their eyes to a multitude of potential jobs available in the construction fields.
What do you enjoy most about working with students?
When working with students you never know what to expect. They present new challenges every day similar to the industry. The best part is seeing students thinking outside the box and coming up with new or different methods. The Building Construction staff prides itself with challenging the students to do just that. We understand collaboration is a big proponent in innovation, and it is rewarding when the students realize their input can make a difference.
What is the best part about being an SCC faculty member?
Working at SCC is an honor. Everyone works as a team with one common goal: Success of the students. SCC feels and acts more like a family rather than individuals working for the same employer.
What has been your proudest moment as an instructor?
My proudest moment as instructor is when you see that “ah ha” moment come across a student’s face or when they complete a task or work out a problem and get that sense of accomplishment performing a task they didn’t realize they were capable of.
What do you like to do when you’re not teaching?
When I’m not teaching I enjoy working on miscellaneous construction projects. I also enjoy spending time outdoors hunting or fishing, that many times has me traveling on a walleye tournament circuit.