Program: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology
Education/Industry
Certifications: Associate of Applied Science degree, HVAC-R, SCC; Master HVAC Contractor License, city of Lincoln
Has Taught at SCC Since: October 2011
Years of Work Experience Outside SCC: Started at Midwest Heating & Air Conditioning of Lincoln in 1992 for two-and-a-half years, then went to school and returned to same company, bought the company later and owned it for about seven years. Still do work for friends and family.
Describe your teaching philosophy.
Start from the beginning and learn the basics very well, then progress from that point. Try to make sure that everyone is learning the correct procedures and has a good understanding of the industry.
Why did you decide to teach at a community college?
I was very aware of the education provided at SCC-Milford before I decided to start teaching. I decided to think about teaching about a year before the position came open. It was something I had thought about, and the time was right when the position became available.
What can prospective students expect when they enroll in your program?
Prospective students can expect to learn about the HVAC industry, operation of equipment, troubleshooting heating and cooling systems, and expect a good career upon graduating.
What experiences outside of SCC do you bring to the classroom/laboratory that enhance student learning?
As far as experiences that I bring to the classroom, I look at it several ways. First as a service technician, as an employee, and also as a business owner. I bring more than 20 years’ experience into the classroom/lab and want to make sure that every detail is explained and understood.
What advice do you have for students pursuing a degree in your program?
The advice that I give to my students is that while achieving a high grade is nice, it is more important that all material is learned and understood. Asking questions and making sure that they have a good understanding of all material will serve a much greater result in the long term.
What do you enjoy most about working with students?
I enjoy the different personalities of students and their backgrounds. No matter where anyone comes from, we all have the same goal: to succeed. All of the students are unique to a degree.
What is the best part about being an SCC faculty member?
The best part of being an SCC faculty member is the support from other instructors and the support staff.
What has been your proudest moment as an instructor?
I don’t think I could pick any one instance of being my proudest moment to date. I am very proud when I hear of past graduates succeeding and saying that they apply what I have taught them about being successful.
What do you like to do when you're not teaching?
When I am not teaching I love to spend time with my family, and I enjoy golfing and sports.