Programs: Continuing Education Division, Electrical, Controls & Automations courses
Education: A.A.S. degree in Electronic Engineering Technology from Southeast Community College, 1972
Has taught at SCC since: 1985
Years of Work Experience Outside SCC: Electronic/Electrical work experience (three years U.S. Army Communications Specialist, six years electronic technician, five years controls engineer, 29 years self-employed as Aden Engineering
Describe your teaching philosophy
My teaching philosophy has been influenced by some of my excellent instructors in the Army and SCC’s Electronics program. An important concept is that of using hands-on exercises and projects to evaluate, apply and develop information delivered in the lecture section of a class. I also include workbooks that students use for note taking, reference and recording results and conclusions from the hands-on sections. I design the portable trainer consoles for the classes to realistically represent actual equipment that technicians will encounter in their jobs.
Why did you decide to teach at a community college?
I wanted to teach at SCC because of its excellent reputation and the way courses are delivered to emphasize practical uses of knowledge. The Continuing Education classes allow me to interface with people already employed in industry who choose to upgrade their skills and improve themselves.
What can prospective students expect when they enroll in your classes?
Students enrolling in one of my classes will find an informal atmosphere where pertinent background information, practical application and challenges are presented. I try to be supportive and encouraging.
What experiences outside of SCC do you bring to the classroom/laboratory that enhance student learning?
I bring past work experience as an electronic technician and controls engineer to the classroom to add interest and validity to the presentations. Because I continue to work in industry, it helps to keep me abreast of changes and trends. It also helps me to know what areas of study are most important. When I am called to design or repair something, I reflect on the skills needed to complete the job and make mental notes to adjust course content to include them.
What advice do you have for students pursuing a degree in your program?
The Electronics/Electromechanical field is a challenging one, with many rewards. Besides learning technical information in a classroom setting, a technician should be prepared to continue learning throughout their career. Some of the equipment that I teach about now was not on the market when I graduated, so I have needed to continue learning through various means. To excel in this field, one needs to take advantage of classes, seminars, trade magazines, manuals, etc. in order to constantly and consistently upgrade skills.
What do you enjoy most about working with students?
I enjoy hearing about the various job and background experiences students bring to classes. Sharing those experiences enhances learning for everyone.
What is the best part about being an SCC faculty member?
One of the best parts of being involved with SCC over the years is being part of a college that enjoys such a great reputation and has such dedicated, high-achieving instructors and employees. I have also enjoyed freedom and flexibility through the Continuing Education Division that has allowed me to develop new courses and promote them to industry.
What has been your proudest moment as an instructor?
My proudest moments as instructor have been watching the development of certain students with low entry skills succeed in class through their own initiative.
What do you like to do when you’re not teaching?
When not teaching I enjoy helping my Aden Engineering customers with their design, build or repair needs for electronic controls. In more than 29 years, a lot of great relationships have developed. I do home projects and do-it-yourself activities on our acreage and enjoy teaching an adult Sunday morning Bible study at our church.