1) Why did you choose CASA as a place to mentor for FRC?

It was a good fit for a teacher interested in helping to close the achievement gap. Through MESA at my school, I met Karen Hunter and Carlota Hernandez. Their work ethic, dedication and good attitude are contagious. After visiting Casa for some other projects, I knew there were great things going on. I wanted to learn what was there that made students and adults keep coming back. When I learned more about FRC, and the concept of “gracious professionalism”, I wanted to be part of the program.

I know little about robotics, and find students are more accepting of that. I plan to soak up their knowledge and apply it in my own classroom. Also, the adults in the FRC program have a wealth of knowledge and I will benefit from that.

2) Did you have somebody in your educational world that helped you decide your career?

Yes. I knew some graduate students and teachers at CSU that really inspired me because they started a nonprofit program to help students learn about construction and the environment. Dr. Brian Dunbar, who has helped with Casa, inspired me because he is a very talented architect. He chose to work on community projects that help people, community and students. I am inspired by people who use their talent it to better the community, not to just make more money. I also had family members (like my dad and uncle) who taught me that it was selfish to not be involved with community.

3) What motivates you as an individual to come and mentor future engineers while working full time?

Really good Mexican food. Oh yeah, and …….I get more energy than I spend. The kids at Casa inspire me, even if I’m tired! Sometimes in my regular classroom, it becomes tiring because the students did not chose to be there, and they can be hard to teach. Kids that come to Casa do so by choice. Also, because I had engineering technician skills, I got some good part-time jobs that helped me earn money during college. I know the FRC program is teaching valuable skills that give Casa kids a better chance at success in college.

4) Tell us about yourself. Title of your job, location and how long, hobbies and etc.

I have a daughter who is 22, she lives in Fort Collins, and she is my biggest gift, and hobby! I teach Technology and MESA at Silver Creek High School and have been there for 3 years now. I like to camp, fish, ski, kayak and hike. I like time with my family in Colorado because they too like to camp, fish, ski, kayak and hike!