The New Castle Career Center welcomes five new instructors to its team: Mike Campbell, Zoe Pew, Amber Raines, Karen Stephenson, and Tim Welch. Each instructor brings a wealth of experience and passion to their respective programs. Their backgrounds and expertise will leave a lasting impact on their students' educational journeys.
Mike Campbell, Welding Assistant Instructor
Mike Campbell is the new Welding Assistant Instructor. He aims to inspire students and help them reach their full potential through his life experiences. Coming from a challenging home life with limited positive guidance, he faced struggles as a young adult. His wife encouraged him to obtain his GED. While juggling day work, he enrolled in night college and earned a computer certification. Campbell then worked in the legal offices of Liberty Mutual Insurance as an Insurance Assistant and provided IT support. He returned to school, became an ASC Certified Mechanic, and worked at a dealership until he was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 47.
Campbell shares his aspiration: “I hope to help prepare the next generation by sharing my life skills, being honest with them about my life story, and showing them that you can overcome anything if you put your mind to it and you put the hard work into it.”
Zoe Pew, Veterinary Science Instructor
Zoe Pew, the newly appointed Veterinary Science Instructor, anticipates meeting her students and witnessing their enthusiasm for veterinary medicine throughout the year. Pew holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University and has experience in research, lab animal medicine, and small animal emergency medicine. These positions have equipped her with valuable skills, knowledge, and practical experiences for teaching. Having once been a Veterinary Science student at the New Castle Career Center, she can provide insights into post-graduation life and the career center's impact on those pursuing a career in the veterinary field.
“I am hopeful that I will be able to share some insight as to what life looks like post-graduation for those interested in the veterinary field,” notes Pew. “I hope to be able to show the students how impactful the Career Center can truly be!”
Karen Stephenson, EMT, and Public Safety Instructor
Karen Stephenson has taken on the role of EMT and Public Safety Instructor. She is dedicated to creating a plan to set students up for success. With her experience working with people of all ages and her background as a 911 paramedic, Stephenson possesses the knowledge to train students for real-world situations. She finds teaching to be a blessing and takes delight in assisting others. She aims to impact the lives of others positively.
Stephenson states, “The trend of educating students sooner to develop skills for their future is a wonderful challenge. The potential here at New Castle Career Center is infinite and inviting.”
Amber Raines, Health Science Education Instructor
Amber Raines is the new Health Science Education Instructor. She is a Registered Nurse with over 14 years of experience in the healthcare industry and training through Ivy Tech Community College. Raines brings a wealth of skills to her new role and is excited to impart her knowledge and insights to the Health Science Education students. As a mother of three and a "dog mama,” Amber understands the importance of balance and compassion in her personal and professional life.
Raines shares, “I am excited about meeting students and the opportunity to share my knowledge and experiences with them. I am looking forward to a great year!”
Tim Welch, Fire and Rescue Program Instructor
Tim Welch, the new Fire and Rescue Program Instructor, brings a wealth of experience to his role. His career, which began as a firefighter, saw him rise through the ranks to serve as an Engineer, Lieutenant, Captain, and Battalion Chief. Each step of his journey has equipped him with invaluable knowledge and skills. He is passionate about the transformation he witnesses in cadets, from their first day to their graduation as firefighters.
Welch emphasizes, “The team building and dependence on each other that grows as the class progresses is unequaled and can't be compared to anything else. I believe these students will grow and mature together.”
For information on each of the programs offered at the New Castle Career Center, please visit nccareercenter.org.