In 2010, while working in the automotive industry and desirous of becoming a teacher, I decided to get my Career and Technical Education (CTE) certification. This certification allowed me to accept an automotive technology teaching position at a Skills Center. Skills Centers are CTE instruction centers for 11th & 12th graders. Further, this position was challenging as it was located in a low SES, high diversity, inner-city location in western WA.Upon starting my career at the Skills center, I completely revamped the entire course and classroom layout. I developed a new and updated curriculum, built an influential advisory committee, and started an internship and direct requiting program. These were all unique and innovative programs that moved it to a new and exciting place.During my time as a teacher, I continued my education. I received my MA in Educational Leadership in 2017, and my CTE Directors certification in 2018 with the aspiration of going into administration. I wanted to make an impact on a larger scale. I'm proud to say that I graduated with honors for each of my advanced degrees.I was a master teacher for other persons pursuing their CTE certification in automotive technology. Additionally, I was appointed incoming/new teacher mentor and coach for the school. My specialty is classroom management, classroom inclusion, connection with students, and classroom culture development.I also held a team leadership position on the Key Performance Indicator (KPI) collaboration team for two years and was a KPI team member for six years. I was a member of the diversity awareness/instruction team for two years and participated in the Uni-Serve Union counsel for one year. Teaching is my calling, and I have a passion for working with those that want to learn. I want to focus my attention on teaching teachers how to do precisely what I did in the classroom. I want to be an influencer in changing the face of education focused on young boys/men. That would include skilled trades awareness, motivational speaking, men's coaching, guidance, advocacy, and rights. I have a strong desire to continue to work with people, and this where I excel. Even if it is not teaching, as long as it is working with, guiding, mentoring, counseling etc, I am happy, and am looking to again return to this type of work.
