Susan Russell

Welding Instructor, AB Tech Madison

“I never thought I’d become a teacher. I quit school in the 10th grade, went back for my GED, then eventually got my two-year degree at AB Tech. I got a job here and within a year ended up teaching at both the Asheville and Madison Campuses. That was 16 years ago. My role is instructor and repair person. We also work on lots of projects for the town and county. I love teaching welding. I absolutely love that Aha! moment when a student says, ‘I finally understand how this puddle moves, now!’ That’s what I live for!”