Edustaff congratulates Barry Champeau on being named the Higher Education Employee of the Month for December.
Since 2022, Barry has been an adjunct instructor in the automotive program at Kirtland Community College. Barbara Walden, Dean of Occupational Programs, said he has been indispensable since he started.
“He not only takes on a growing teaching load, but also invests significant time in preparing engaging classes and exploring new ways to support student success. Known for meeting every administrative deadline—every Dean’s dream—Barry also contributes thoughtful insights that strengthen the program,” she said. “His knowledge and collaboration have played a key role in the program’s continued growth, and his professionalism and unwavering commitment make him an outstanding educator and a valued member of the Kirtland team.”
Barry knows Kirtland Community College well – he graduated from their automotive program himself. He has loved cars since he was young, and had always wanted to work on them.
After graduation he joined the Navy and spent 13 years traveling the world, then decided to move home. After taking a lab assistant job at the college, he heard about an opening in the automotive program.
“The stars aligned and a position opened up for a professor slot,” he said. “I fell in love with it.”
“I love the enthusiasm that the young adults have, just like I did,” he said. “I get to pass on what my elders passed on to me.”
Unlike professors who see students only for one or two classes, he gets tostick with them for the entire two-year automotive tech program at the college, he said. “It’s very rewarding to see them grow in our organization.”
He still enjoys working on classic cars in his free time, and is also interested in boats and snowmobiles. “I have my own toys at home,” he said.
Congratulations, Barry, and thank you for your contributions to Kirtland Community College.
