Dell Bean

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"I think I've been a latent teacher all my life; tutoring at TFL gives me a chance to experience teaching and reap the benefits. I've been very fortunate in my career and this is a good way to give back. I get a lot of satisfaction enabling another person to enjoy a better life. I was educated as a mechanical engineer. The first half of my career I worked in engineering - electronics, computers, steel fabrication and manufacturing; the second part of my career was spent in management. I spent 7 years at Smith & Wesson, 15 years with Digital Equipment, Tambrands for a short period and several smaller companies. Teaching math means that I can draw on that practical background. In my management career, I learned how people's personal lives affected their work and it's helped me to understand the personal situations of people who come to TFL. I learned the communication and social skills needed to transfer knowledge. Having knowledge is only part of the equation; having the skill to impart knowledge is important. I've worked with 12 students since joining TFL in 2004. The most satisfying thing is seeing my student "get it." I really do enjoy this."

Dell teaches one-to-one math and prepares students to take the GED. He also designed the curriculum and teaches Budgeting I and II in the Financial Literacy program.