Program: Electrical/Electromechanical Technology
Education/Industry Certifications: CMRP, Level II infrared thermographer, Level II vibration specialist, Level II ultrasound technician, fluid power specialist, Electromechanical Technology AAS from SCC, Missile Systems Analyst/Instructor certification from USAF.
Has Taught at SCC Since: 1990
Years of Work Experience Outside SCC: 10
Describe your teaching philosophy.
I believe in educating our students with the philosophy of producing the best quality graduates in the country, and while doing so, making the experience as enjoyable and memorable as possible.
Why did you decide to teach at a community college?
I decided I would like to teach at a community college while I was an instructor in the U.S. Air Force during the mid-1980s.
What experiences outside of SCC do you bring to the classroom/laboratory that enhance student learning?
The outside experiences I bring to the classroom/laboratory that enhance student learning come from many years of hands-on training and work beginning with the Air Force as a missile systems technician and instructor, as an electrician after the Air Force, a graduate of the Electromechanical Technology program, then as a maintenance technician and machine builder for Lincoln Machine Inc., before beginning as an instructor at SCC. I continue to work with industry as a repair and troubleshooting consultant, as well as a predictive maintenance specialist. Having a son with developmental and physical disabilities has taught me that anyone can learn something if it is taught to them in a way they can understand.
What advice do you have for students pursuing a degree in your program?
The advice I would have for students pursuing a degree in our program would be to work hard every day to improve at every opportunity and it will pay big dividends when the time comes to enter the work world.
What do you enjoy most about working with students?
The thing I enjoy most about working with students is being able to share their enthusiasm for the trade.
What is the best part about being an SCC faculty member?
The best part about being an SCC-Milford faculty member is the strong and traditional feeling that you are part of a close family with common goals.
What has been your proudest moment as an instructor?
My proudest moment as an instructor was when my students and peers honored me with the SCC Outstanding Faculty Award.
What do you like to do when you’re not teaching?
When I’m not teaching I enjoy spending time with my family, fishing, hunting, target shooting, and home-brewing.
What would students be surprised to know about you?
My students might be surprised to know that I have a 21-year-old son with 22q Deletion Syndrome and that my wife and I founded a nonprofit foundation that helps families, doctors and teachers become more educated about the syndrome.