Tom
Introduction to BCT B – Trades · Terra Linda High School
Electrical · Plumbing · Welding · HVAC
35 Years in the Trades — Now Passing It On
Tom spent 35 years as a licensed California General Contractor — from 1989 through 2024 — building a deep, hands-on mastery of the construction trades. When the opportunity came to teach full time, he made the decision to let his contractor's license go inactive and commit entirely to education.
His teaching career has taken him through Redwood High School, where he led engineering projects and an R.O.P. Construction Technology class; San Andreas High School, where he taught construction and engineering; and now Terra Linda High School, where he teaches Introduction to BCT B – Trades — covering electrical, plumbing, welding, and HVAC.
Tom's classroom is built on the belief that the best way to learn a trade is to do it. Students in his class don't just study theory — they wire circuits, fit pipes, strike arcs, and understand the systems that make every building work. His goal is to show students that careers in the trades are skilled, well-paying, and in high demand right here in Marin County.
1989 – 2024
Licensed General Contractor
Held a California General Contractor's license for 35 years, managing residential and commercial construction projects across the Bay Area. Made the decision to let the license go inactive in order to commit fully to teaching the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
Teaching — Redwood High School
Engineering Projects & ROP Construction Technology
Taught Regional Occupational Program (R.O.P.) Construction Technology and engineering project courses at Redwood High School, giving students hands-on exposure to real construction methods and problem-solving.
Teaching — San Andreas High School
Construction & Engineering
Taught construction and engineering courses at San Andreas High School, continuing to build a track record of turning classroom theory into practical, job-ready skills for students entering the trades.
Teaching — Terra Linda High School
CTE Intro to Trades Classes (BCT B)
Currently teaching Introduction to Building & Construction Trades (BCT B) at Terra Linda High School as part of the Marin County CTE program — the class supported by Shifting Gears USA. Students explore electrical, plumbing, welding, and HVAC in a hands-on environment.
Introduction to BCT B – Trades
Class Details
What Students Learn
- Electrical wiring projects — circuits, panels, and safety
- Plumbing projects — pipe fitting, fixtures, and systems
- MIG welding — technique, safety, and hands-on practice
- HVAC fundamentals — heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
- Career guidance and industry field trips
- Meals provided every class night