麻豆视频

Q: Can you share your journey to becoming a faculty member at Delaware Tech? When did you start and what were you doing before?

“I started teaching at Delaware Tech as an adjunct instructor in 2015 and transitioned to a full-time faculty role in 2017, but my career at the College began long before that. I’ve worn many hats here—as an information technology (IT) specialist level I and III, classroom technology manager, and educational technologist with Creative Instruction and Technology (CCIT). Through those roles, I built a strong foundation in both technology and teaching. Before that, I worked in private sector IT. What pulled me into higher education full-time was realizing I could use my experience to help students build careers in IT or advance their academic goals.”

Q:  What is your favorite thing about working at Delaware Tech? What do you find most rewarding about teaching here?

“What I enjoy most is seeing students level up by helping them go from unsure to confident, from learning theory and gaining skills to getting hired. It’s rewarding knowing I’m helping build the next generation of IT professionals and that what we teach here has a real impact beyond the classroom.”

Q: How would you describe your teaching philosophy?

“I work to create an inclusive learning environment that reflects the diversity of our community college population. I teach what matters, with a focus on real-world value. My approach blends hands-on labs, clear explanations, and personalized support for our students. I don’t just teach content, I help shape future leaders by building their skills in teamwork, critical thinking, troubleshooting, and adaptability in the fast-changing field of information technology.”

Q:  Are you currently involved in any research or special projects? If so, how do you integrate them into your teaching?

“I stay active with tech initiatives across campus and regularly integrate new tools and teaching strategies into my courses. I’ve also been involved in grant-funded projects like Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training (TAACCCT) and workforce development initiatives, including the 1+1 dual enrollment grant with JPMorgan Chase and Howard High School—all of which directly support how I prepare students for real-world careers in IT.”

Q:  What challenges have you faced in your career, and how have you overcome them? What changes have you seen in yourself since you started working here?

“One of the biggest challenges has been balancing the technical side with the human side. Trying to know the material inside and out while still connecting with every type of student. Over time, I’ve sharpened my communication, built more patience, and leaned into mentoring. It’s made me a stronger leader and a better teacher.”

Q:  Can you share a significant achievement or milestone in your professional journey?

“Earning my doctorate in Innovation and Leadership in Higher Education in 2022 was one of the most challenging and rewarding accomplishments of my life, especially with a growing family. Professionally, being nominated for and receiving the Excellence in Teaching Award this year was a proud moment. What makes it even more meaningful is that my father, who also taught and retired from Delaware Tech, was a recipient of the same award.”

Q: What are your interests or hobbies outside of the College?

“I’m big on family time with my wife and our two daughters, ages 5 and 3, and we’ve got a baby boy arriving in August. They keep me on my toes and remind me every day of what really matters. Outside of work, I stay active in community service, enjoy the outdoors, and take on the occasional tech project at home. I used to be into fishing, golfing, and spending time on Delaware’s drive-on beaches, but these days, most of my free time is spent chasing my kids.”

Q: What advice would you give to students pursuing a career in your field?

“Take initiative. Don’t wait for someone to hand you the answers. Get your hands dirty, troubleshoot, and learn by doing. The IT field rewards people who are adaptable, hungry to learn, and willing to solve problems others can’t.”

Q: Is there a particular experience or lesson that has profoundly impacted your teaching or outlook on education?

“Early on, I had a student who was ready to walk away from it all. I pulled them aside, worked with them one-on-one, and they not only finished their courses for that semester with passing grades, but they also landed a solid IT job after graduation. That moment reminds me that sometimes, what makes the difference in helping someone reach their goals is having someone in their corner who believes in them and pushes them to see what they’re capable of.”

Q:  What’s something people may not know about you?

“I’m really into cooking and like experimenting with all kinds of cuisines. I enjoy trying out new recipes, putting my own spin on them, and turning simple ingredients into something great and memorable. My favorite thing to cook is anything with seafood.”

Q:  What are your future goals?

“I plan to keep driving results that align with Delaware Tech’s mission by making sure our program stays competitive, career-focused, and built for student success. I’m committed to being a part of the College’s continued growth, whether that’s through leading new initiatives, mentoring students, or helping shape what the future of tech education looks like here.”