NC3 has some impressive Master Instructors in our ranks and this Instructor Spotlight series aims to highlight the incredibly talented individuals who work with us. We’ll be featuring a new interview in our monthly newsletters, here on our website, and on our social media pages each month.

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Check out our Q&A session below to learn more about Ron, his school, how he originally got involved with NC3, being an NC3 Master Instructor, and more!

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Describe your path to becoming an instructor, what you teach and how long you have been teaching?

I’ve just started my 36th year teaching automotive technology at Columbus High School in Columbus, Nebraska. My journey began on the dairy farm where I grew up, constantly surrounded by opportunities to work with my hands. At 13, I started working summers for a neighbor who was a technical instructor. That “on-the-job” training was my first real introduction to the world of technical education, and it sparked my passion for the field.

After high school, I opened my own auto repair shop. While I enjoyed working with my hands, I quickly discovered that I loved teaching and sharing knowledge even more, so I made a shift and decided to pursue education. I went to Fort Hays State University to study automotive technologies. I already knew a lot of the material, but my instructors recognized my experience and kept me engaged by giving me extra and more advanced assignments.

In 1989, I began my teaching career at Columbus High School. I’ve had the privilege of working with both juniors and seniors—juniors focus on introductory and basic courses, while seniors dive into intermediate and advanced material. I teach everything from foundational skills to specialized topics like Scan Tool Diagnostics, Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems, Precision Measuring Instruments, Multimeter usage, Battery/Starting/Charging, Mechanical & Electronic Torque, ShopKey Pro, and Wheel Service & Alignment. It’s been an incredibly rewarding path, and I’m excited to continue helping students discover the same passion for automotive that I found so many years ago.

Describe something you are proud and passionate about that your school does?

One thing I’m incredibly proud of at Columbus High School is our commitment to NC3 certifications. In 2016, we introduced these certifications, and they’ve become a cornerstone of our automotive program. Before that, we had been searching for a way to better equip our students for real-world success, and NC3’s Snap-on program provided the perfect solution. The impact has been tremendous—not only have we raised the bar in terms of student outcomes and knowledge, but we’ve also seen an increase in student confidence and engagement. It’s exciting to see other instructors at our school now exploring additional NC3 programs, like FESTO. This has created a culture of growth and excellence, and I’m proud to be a part of that.

How did you get involved with NC3?

My involvement with NC3 started thanks to Doug Carrig from Snap-on, who played a pivotal role in bringing these certifications to our school. Doug was our local Snap-on Industrial account manager and a Columbus High School alum. He always stayed connected to his alma mater, making sure we were up-to-date with the latest technologies in the industry. When we opened our new building in 2016, Doug was the one who really pushed for us to explore certifications, and that’s what got the ball rolling. Without his initiative and support, we might never have started this journey. Doug has since retired and now lives in Omaha, but I’ll always be grateful for the impact he had on our program.

What is your favorite part of Train-the-Trainers and being a Master Instructor?

What I love most about Train-the-Trainer events and being a Master Instructor is how they drive my professional development and make me a better educator. These experiences constantly push me to grow and refine my skills, ensuring I stay ahead of the curve in a field that’s always evolving. They challenge me to know as much, if not more, than what instructors are expecting. Over the years, I’ve written four textbooks, and having other subject matter experts review my work means I must be precise and on top of my game. This continuous growth and commitment to excellence ultimately make me a more effective instructor for my students at Columbus High School, enriching their learning experience and better preparing them for the future.

Beyond that, the camaraderie is incredible. At Train-the-Trainers, I get to interact with instructors from all over the country, along with other Master Instructors, industry experts, and the NC3 team. We all benefit immensely from being together and sharing knowledge and best practices. In-person TTTs are the best, but the virtual ones have also been fantastic—there’s a real sense of connection and learning in both settings. It’s a rewarding experience that deepens my passion for what I do.

What is your favorite part of Train-the-Trainers and being a Master What would you say to instructors/schools considering joining the NC3 Master Instructor Team?

If you’re considering joining the NC3 Master Instructor Team, I’d say it’s an incredible opportunity to showcase your skills and bring more recognition to your school. It’s not just about enhancing your own abilities—though that’s a significant benefit—but also about becoming part of a dynamic network. The connections you make with other Master Instructors and industry partners are invaluable.

I’ve been continually impressed by the depth of knowledge from industry experts like Earl Bailey and Dave Spinney from Snap-on. For example, Dave provided exceptional insight during a recent Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems training, offering a wealth of information on current and future developments. These professionals are on the cutting edge of the industry, and their expertise can help you stay ahead and enrich your teaching. Joining the Master Instructor Team is not just a professional growth opportunity; it’s a chance to be at the forefront of industry advancements and to contribute meaningfully to the field.

How has being a Master Instructor translated to your ability to relate to your students?

Being a Master Instructor has definitely enhanced my ability to relate to my students. Unlike instructors at Train-the-Trainer events, who come with a wealth of experience, my students are at various stages of their learning journey. This perspective has deepened my understanding of where they are coming from and what they need to succeed.

For instance, I currently have a class with ten girls—our first in a while—and their eagerness to learn and participate has been inspiring. Experiencing the full spectrum of knowledge and enthusiasm, from seasoned instructors to eager students, has given me a greater appreciation for the challenges and triumphs my students face. This experience helps me tailor my approach to better support and engage them, making my teaching more effective and fulfilling.

What’s a piece of advice for students or that you would give to your younger self or other educators?

For students, my advice is to pursue something you’re passionate about and are willing to build a career around. Take this time to discover what truly excites you and map out the steps you need to take to get there. If you have a clear goal but aren’t sure how to reach it, seek out a mentor or coach who can guide you through the process. Many students miss out on this crucial support, so don’t hesitate to ask for help.

For younger educators or my younger self, I’d say: Don’t be afraid to dive in and embrace new challenges. I’m currently mentoring a student teacher who’s 25, and I see a lot of my younger self in him. Embrace the opportunities that come your way, and remember that every experience—whether it succeeds or falls short—is a valuable lesson. Learning from both your successes and your setbacks will help you grow and improve continuously.

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For information on Columbus High School – Columbus, Nebraska, please visit: https://www.columbuspublicschools.org/o/columbushighschool

For information on NC3’s Partner Snap-on please visit: https://www.nc3.net/partner-snapon/

For information on NC3’s Train-the-Trainer program, please visit www.nc3.net/training