New Staff: Juan Rodriguez

Age: 57

Hometown and High School: Golden, Colorado / Arvada West

Classes Teaching or Position: Welding and Manufacturing Instructor

Teaching History or Previous Employment: “I started my teaching career as a part-time welding instructor at Simi Valley Adult Ed.  From there, I was hired as a full-time instructor at the Career Education Center (formerly Regional Occupational Program) in Camarillo.  And now I am happy to say I am the Welding Instructor for Channel Islands High School.”

College(s) Attended and Degree: “Graduate of the Regional Occupational Program in Camarillo and the BTSA program to receive my full-time Designated Subjects Vocational teaching credential.  I am also a Certified Welding Educator from the American Welding Society.”

Family: Married with two kids (Sophia age 20 and Christian age 16).

Hobbies and Interests: “I love getting out and playing golf (though not often enough).  Astronomy.  Go Broncos!  And finally, a big weather geek.  If my wife would agree, I would love to be a storm chaser!”

Impressions of CI: “I love the challenges and rewards of teaching here.  The school is full of great students, faculty, and administration.  I immediately felt like I was part of one big family.”

Interesting Fact About Me: “When my parents, sister, and I moved to California from Colorado in 1983, my Dad had a hard time finding work and unfortunately, we became homeless.  But through hard work from my entire family and the generosity of a very kind family, we were all able to achieve many things in our lives.  My father became a very skilled and professional painter, my mother and sister both worked at Point Mugu Naval Base and I learned a trade, worked in manufacturing for many years, and eventually became a teacher. “

Favorite Quote: “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”  – Benjamin Franklin