Eric (he/him) has been teaching at Highline for more than 25 years, where he’s known for making geology come alive - whether through stories from erupting volcanoes or through the everyday ways Earth science shapes our lives. He primarily teaches geology and environmental science and has served as both department chair and STEM division head, helping shape academic programs and support faculty across campus.

His work extends well beyond the classroom. Eric studies how students learn to use math in geology and how and how to support faculty improving community college STEM teaching. He also collaborates with faculty nationwide who are seeking National Science Foundation support and contributes to national and campus efforts focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the geosciences.

Eric didn’t start college knowing what he wanted to do. Discovering geology—and especially volcanoes—changed everything. After earning his bachelor’s degree and completing a Ph.D. at UC Santa Barbara, he realized he loved teaching even more than research. That path led him to community colleges, where he’s been ever since. His fieldwork has taken him to active volcanoes around the world, including Mount St. Helens, Stromboli, Sakurajima, and Kīlauea.

For those interested in his scholarly work, Eric’s publications and presentations are available on Google Scholar, and he has contributed extensively to the Science Education Resource Center’s teaching and learning communities.