How long have you been teaching?
I've been teaching for 26 years.
What subject do you teach?
I teach Machine Tool.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
Becoming a teacher wasn’t something I initially planned after high school. However, when Phillip Malphrus reached out and asked me to consider teaching Machine Tool at the career center, I decided to take the opportunity—and it turned out to be a great choice.
What are some skills that students learn in your class?
Students develop hands-on technical skills such as hand-eye coordination, welding muscle memory, and teamwork. They also build important soft skills that prepare them for success in the workplace.
What is your favorite book, movie, or quote – Why?
While I don’t have a single favorite book or movie, I enjoy action and thriller films for their fast-paced and engaging storytelling.
Share a fun fact about yourself.
In my free time, I enjoy deer hunting.
They researched real-world equine facilities, designed and built their own model barns, and crafted detailed scenarios describing how their horses would be raised and cared for.
Hands-on learning at its finest — creativity, critical thinking, and career exploration all in one project!
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #EquineScience
How many years have you been teaching?
This is my fifth year in education.
What do you teach?
I currently teach Web Page Design, Image Editing, Jacket Pathways, and will begin teaching Intro to AI Honors in the spring.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
I have always been driven by a desire to help others. Teaching gives me the chance to support students every day—whether through an assignment or simply by listening. My most meaningful moments come when students remind me that this work is about far more than standards; it’s about connection and impact.
What are some skills that students learn in your class?
I teach computer-based courses so students can build practical skills they will use in everyday life. I also emphasize the value of a strong work ethic, because discipline and character often take students further than anything else.
What is your favorite book, movie, or quote - Why?
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11
This verse anchors me and guides the way I show up for my students each day.
Share a fun fact about yourself.
I enjoy spending time outdoors and being with family and friends. You can often find me camping, boating, fishing, walking the dog, or playing pickleball. I also love watching sports—Go Gamecocks! 🤙
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #CTE
How many years have you been teaching?
I have been teaching for 15 years.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
I've always had a passion for working with my hands and solving problems. Auto collision repair combines technical skills, creativity, and precision, and I wanted to share that with the next generation.
What are some skills that students learn in your class?
Workplace skills, shop Safety, tool usage, damage assessment, dent repair, surface preparation, painting techniques, welding, window tinting, headlight restoration, detailing, and radio installation.
What is your favorite book, movie, or quote - Why?
"I couldn't find the sports car of my dreams, so I built it myself." - Ferdinand Porsche
I totally agree, if you can't find what you want, build it!
Share a fun fact about yourself.
The Mustang GT that I drove to classes at Greenville Tech was a junkyard find that I completely rebuilt myself.
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #CTE
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #HOSA
Let's meet Mrs. Vaughan!
How long have you been teaching?
This is my 5th year.
What do you teach?
I teach Entrepreneurship, Jacket Pathway, and Web Page Design
What inspired you to become a teacher?
I’ve always loved helping people, and as a kid, the movie Matilda made teaching look magical and meaningful.
What are some skills that students learn in your class?
Students develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, and they learn to think creatively. Hands-on projects also strengthen their time management and communication.
What is your favorite book, movie, or quote – Why?
My favorite movie is A Beautiful Mind. It influenced my decision to study business and economics with a minor in math. John Nash’s theories even became part of my senior thesis.
Share a fun fact about yourself.
I have a twin brother!
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #CTE
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterTogether #CareerReady
#VeteransDay #HonoringOurHeroes #CTE #ThankYouVeterans #DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #CTE
How long have you been teaching?
I've been teaching for 4 years.
What do you teach?
I'm currently teaching Discovering Computer Science.
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What inspired you to become a teacher?
I was inspired to become a full-time teacher after substituting in Special Education in 2017. I fell in love with the students and was amazed by how much they knew—especially their skills with technology.
What are some skills that students learn in your class?
In Discovering Computer Science, students learn the basics of coding and explore computer science concepts focused on problem-solving and creativity. They design websites, apps, and video games while discovering how technology can be a tool for communication and innovation.
What is your favorite book, movie, or quote – Why?
My favorite movie is Tombstone—it’s full of memorable one-liners, many of which I connect to real-life and career lessons for my students.
Share a fun fact about yourself.
I love golf—playing it, watching it, and even thinking about it!
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #CTE
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #CTE
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #MedTerms
Let's meet LTC. Ruzicka!
How long have you been teaching?
I’m beginning my 4th year at Union County.
What classes are you currently teaching?
I teach four grade levels across three blocks, including:
Required Courses: Army JROTC 1–4
Additional Courses: Military Science 1–4
What inspired you to become a teacher?
Teaching came naturally to me. I see it as sharing knowledge and experience with others. The true reward comes later, when a former student lights up with a smile and remembers something meaningful you taught them.
What are some skills that students learn in your class?
Students build leadership, confidence, discipline, personal responsibility, and teamwork. As Henry Ford said, “Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.” Watching shy students grow into strong, confident leaders is the most rewarding part of my job.
What is your favorite quote – Why?
“Great leadership is like shaving: no matter how well you shaved today, you will have to do it tomorrow.” – Adapted from Reed B. Markham
It reminds me that leadership is a daily commitment to growth, responsibility, and positive influence.
Share a fun fact about yourself.
I met my wife while we were both stationed in Afghanistan.
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #JROTC #Leadership
We’re grateful for community professionals who take the time to inspire and guide our students as they explore future career options!
Thank you, Will Edwards (EMT) and Jay Browning (Personal Trainer), for sharing your experiences.
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #CareerExploration
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #JROTC #Leadership
A special thank-you to Sonoco for welcoming our students and for the generous gift of a flag to display in our Machine Tool classroom—a lasting reminder of this inspiring visit and partnership.
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #MachineTool #Manufacturing
Our Cosmetology students are showcasing their creativity with a Pumpkin Display. Our faculty and staff are invited to stop by, check out the amazing designs, and vote for your favorite pumpkin. 🧡 The votes will determine our 1st Place Winner and Runner-Up!
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #CosmetologyCreatives #BetterToday
Meet Mr. Ketterman!
How long have you been teaching?
This is my twentieth year teaching.
What do you teach?
I teach Building Construction.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
While working in the industry, I trained new employees in finish framing for condo projects. When my former instructor announced his retirement, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to pass on my skills and inspire a new generation to enjoy learning the construction trades.
What are some skills that students learn in your class?
Students learn to read measurements, safely use hand and power tools, and work with materials like wood, sheet metal, brick, and mortar. They also gain basic plumbing and electrical skills.
What is your favorite book, movie, or quote – Why?
I enjoy "The Kingdom Man" by Dr. Tony Evans because it encourages living with purpose, integrity, and faith—values I strive to model for my students every day.
Share a fun fact.
Still thinking of one—but I’m sure many would say I tell the best "Dad" jokes.
We are excited to announce that, in partnership with Spartanburg Community College will host an interest meeting for our new Phlebotomy and EMT Certification programs!
These certifications will equip students with valuable skills and credentials to confidently enter the healthcare workforce.
📅 Interest Meeting
🗓️ Date: October 15, 2025
⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Multipurpose Meeting Room - Room 600 (Career Center)
Parents and students are invited to join us to learn more about these new opportunities and how they can help shape a future in healthcare.
#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #CTE #UCCC
