Subjects you teach: Animal Science, Biology Ag Science, Ag Systems 1&2, Advanced Ag Mechanics, Welding; Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced, College and Career Awareness, Tech Ed 8
Education and or Experience: Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture Education, Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, Certified FCAW and SMAW 3G Welder, 30 years of part time self-employment in welding.
How many years have you been teaching? 20 Years total; 7 years in Payson UT, 6 years in Paola Kansas, 7 years in Beaver UT.
What do you love most about being an Ag. Teacher? Being an FFA Advisor.
What is your biggest challenge of an Ag. Teacher? Following all of the rules set by the State School Board, and local district that hamper student’s ability to learn.
What most prepared you for being an agriculture educator? Real life work experience in Production Agriculture
What does a typical day look like for you? 4:30 AM chores at home, school by 6:00 AM teach all day, coach CDE teams after school, Coach Jr. High Wresting, work on side welding projects, sleep at 10:30
If you could describe your career in two to three words what would they be? Challenging and rewarding.
If you could relive one of your most memorable days as a teacher, which day would it be and why? I don't like looking at the past, but moving forward with the future, all of my days taught me something and shaped who I am.
What personal qualities or abilities do you think are important to being successful in this profession? if you are used to sleeping in, taking vacations, spending long hours with your family you are not in the right profession or will not last very long.
What would you say to an individual who is considering this profession? If you are in it to be an FFA advisor only don't waste your time. You have to love teaching, your subject matter and dealing with ALL kids not just FFA members.
What have you learned thus far in your teaching career that you wish you would have known when you first began teaching? Set your standards high and stick to them for all kids, honors students, FFA members, resource students, everyone can learn and will if you set our standards they will meet them.