Nov. 7, 2006 issue
I put myself through college working in the
distribution industry, not knowing that some day I'd be
teaching college-level courses in that very subject. Industrial distribution
is an exciting career choice and it is a privilege to be able to teach
in this field.
I was recruited to Eastern 17 years ago, after working as a teacher and
administrator for Detroit Public Schools. Although I originally came to
EMU to coordinate the bilingual vocational education program, that period
in my career ended when funding ran out. Because of my background in industry,
I was asked to teach industrial distribution courses. It was the most
rewarding career move I've ever made.
What makes my job so enjoyable are the students. They come from all walks
of life and provide the intellectual stimulation that keeps you young.
It's really rewarding to see a student enter as a freshman and watch them
progress and get their first job.
I don't consider my job done until my students get a job. From helping
them write and edit their resumes, to setting up interviews, to even helping
them negotiate their first contract, I'm there for students every step
of the way. Our program has a 98-percent placement rate with students
working throughout the United States. Graduates have gone on to work at
companies such as Fastenal, Ford Motor Company, Hayes Lemmerez International,
H&P Technologies, J&L Industrial Supply, LG Electronics, Logistics
Insight, Pfizer, Reggie McKenzie Supply, RS Electronics, Trackspeed, Valassis,
Visteon, Wal-Mart, WW Grainger and many more.
Our program gives the students hands-on experience in the business and
exposure in the industry. We've traveled to conferences
in Chicago, Denver, Las Vegas, New Orleans and San Diego
where students have had opportunities to interact with the CEOs of major
corporations. It's a very personal, one-on-one approach that helps me
get to know the students. They often keep in touch after graduation. I've
even been invited to many of their weddings.
I taught my students to thank those who have helped them become successful
along the way. Being successful involves having mentors. My mentors at
EMU have been Phyllis Noda, Demo Stavros and, most recently, Morell Boone.
They have offered me wisdom, support and friendship.
Today, I am currently the interim director for the School of Technology
Studies. I obtained this position through the support of the dean of the
College of Technology and my faculty colleagues in the School of Technology
Studies. I am grateful to have such encouraging people to work with. We're
like a family. We work together and have the same goal: to provide the
best services for the students.
I've always said that teaching at EMU is the second best
career...the best if you can't play professional baseball.
