Editor’s Note: This is part of a series introducing various members of the campus community to Eastern for a better understanding of those who maintain the operations of the university.

Where did you receive your degrees from?

Purdue University

If we saw your music playlist, what would the top five songs be?

Whatever my wife and kids play. I listen to just about anything.

Where is your favorite place on campus?

The classroom is my favorite place on campus. After that is my laboratory.

What is a place in Charleston you think everyone should know about?

The courthouse square is nice – get there in the daytime when places are open. It’s not just for bars.

Who is someone you admire in your field and why?

Ed Dennis – I have known him for many years, but I would read his biography any day of the week.

Why did you go into the field you’re in?

By accident, figuratively and literally. I now work in occupational safety.

What positions have you held during your career in higher education?

I created a Sustainable Energy program at Ivy Tech Community College. Now, I am here at EIU in the School of Technology.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your current position?

Working with students is the greatest part. It is great to watch them grow and to reflect back on how much I have learned from them.

What are the most challenging aspects of your position?

Currently the most challenging part is adapting to the pandemic. After that, the most difficult part is never having enough time. If I could, I would make my superpower the ability to be two places at the same time. My superpower now is Murphy’s Law – if you want nice weather, just ask me to wash my car.

What advice would you give to students in your department for their college careers?

Your life’s career starts when you walk in our doors, not when you leave. Treat it like that, and be excellent at it.

What is your number one goal for your students?

I want to see all my students make their own world – not in a delusional way. I want them make the lives they want to see themselves living.

The News Staff can be reached at 581-2812 or at dennewsdesk@gmail.com.