Jack Day – Leading by Example in Wind Energy Education

Originally written by Amanda Parks, Woodward News Staff Writer. Reprinted with permission from the Woodward News.

For Jack Day, teaching isn’t just about transferring knowledge — it’s about shaping the next generation of professionals who will keep America’s clean energy future turning.

Born and raised in and around Pawnee, Day’s journey to the classroom took a unique path.

After moving to Valley Center, Kansas, in middle school, he graduated from Valley Center High School and soon enlisted in the U.S. Navy — a decision inspired by his uncle Ray, an Air Force retiree.

“I retired from the Navy in 2009,” Day said. “Siemens Wind Power hired me and moved me to Woodward as a Wind Technician attached to the OU Spirit Wind Farm.”

Day’s education includes Naval Technical Training in Advanced Aegis Weapons Systems and coursework at Coastline Community College in Fountain Valley, California. Today, he applies that technical foundation and leadership experience as an Advanced Wind Energy Technician instructor at High Plains Technology Center.

He says the most rewarding part of his job is seeing his adult students grow in both skill and confidence.

“I enjoy interacting with my students & observing them grow in confidence as they practice the new skills they’re learning,” Day said. “Then seeing them placed in the workforce in a growing and advancing career — watching the incredible transformation that occurs in a short 20 weeks.”

Each semester, Day is continually impressed by his students’ potential.

“They seem to improve semester after semester,” he said.

Day’s teaching philosophy is grounded in discipline, respect, and teamwork — values carried over from his military service.

“I tell students on day one not to think of this as a classroom, but as a workplace,” he said. “I lead by example.”

His classroom culture balances hard work with camaraderie. Day even brings hacky sacks for quick breaks, turning lighthearted fun into a team-building exercise.

He holds his students to high standards, guided by three core values: Integrity, Accountability and Dependability.

“I demand they practice and honor these every day,” Day said.

Beyond technical training, Day hopes his students see something deeper in him.

“I hope they see my faith in Jesus Christ,” he said. “Beyond that, I hope they find purpose, motivation and a commitment to lifelong improvement.”

Few would guess that Day, now a confident instructor, once struggled with shyness.

“As a youth, I was very timid — the underdog,” he said. “Speaking in front of people would’ve terrified me.”

Day and his wife, Tamara, have a blended family of six — a daughter and three sons between them.

“They inspire me every day,” he said. “I want them to see me work hard and strive for greatness — to lead by example.”

When he’s not in the classroom, Day enjoys spending time with his family and tending to his lawn and garden. Looking ahead, he and his wife are in the planning stages of building a new home — another project fueled by teamwork and perseverance.

After years of military and technical experience, Day says teaching has been his most fulfilling chapter yet.

“If you have a passion for our future generations, here’s your chance to make an impact,” he said. “It’s the most rewarding career I’ve had. The Navy was rewarding — but teaching impacts lives that will carry on a legacy beyond oneself.”