I'm Retiring From My Full Time Engineering Faculty Position at Holyoke Community College

“Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something
else.” – Fred Rogers

After an enriching and fulfilling career spanning five decades, I am announcing my retirement from my full-time engineering faculty position at Holyoke Community College (HCC) effective August 30, 2024. This decision comes with mixed emotions, as I reflect on the journey that has shaped not only my professional life but also my personal growth.

Teaching has been more than just a job; it has been a vocation that allowed me to inspire and nurture countless students, guiding them through the complexities of engineering principles and practices. My time in academia has been marked by moments of profound satisfaction, seeing students evolve into competent and confident engineers and technologists, ready to make their mark in the world. Each graduation ceremony, each successful project, and each breakthrough in understanding (and of course each belly-flop failure) has reinforced my belief in the power of education.

The field of engineering itself has undergone tremendous transformation during my tenure. From the early days of teaching with chalk and blackboards to leveraging cutting-edge technology and online platforms, I have witnessed and embraced these changes, ensuring that my students received the most current and relevant knowledge. The shift towards digital learning, in particular, has been a remarkable journey, one that demanded continuous adaptation and learning on my part.

Retirement from HCC marks the beginning of a new chapter, where I am eager to channel my energy and expertise into some exciting consultancy projects, writing, mentoring, and of course some part-time teaching. The flexibility will allow me to spend more time with my family and yeah (!) - get in a little more fishing. 

Will this be a “sabbatical”  or a permanent change? Having experienced "retirement" in the past and not having it “stick”, I've learned to appreciate the unpredictability of life. This journey has taught me to embrace uncertainty and always stay open to whatever opportunities and possibilities the future may bring.

My academic career has been a tapestry woven with dedication, passion, and countless rewarding experiences. I carry with me a wealth of memories and the profound satisfaction of having contributed to the field of engineering and to the lives of so many young minds.