Russ Hamilton Announces Retirement After 22 Years of Inspiring Students at Cleveland Community College

Russ Hamilton, a long-time HVAC instructor at Cleveland Community College, is set to retire after 22 years of impacting students’ lives.

Originally on a different career path, Russ’s journey into teaching took an unexpected route. After being discharged from the Navy, Russ worked the third shift at a local company. After 10 years working on the night shift, he was ready for a change and enrolled at CCC to earn his diploma.

When he was asked to teach some basic electrical classes, Russ was initially reluctant, but once he began teaching, his interest in the profession grew. Eventually, he applied for a full-time position and made teaching his career. Over the years, he says he has enjoyed watching students who come in with very little knowledge about HVAC and seeing the change in them when things suddenly begin to make sense, and they begin to understand. But the best part, he says, “is seeing them go out, get a job, and improve their lives.”

Looking back, one of Russ’s fondest memories involves helping a student who suffered a severe stroke toward the end of the fall semester. He worked with the student to ensure he graduated on time. This student’s achievement was especially significant to Russ because he was the first HVAC associate degree program graduate. Expanding the HVAC program to include an associate degree was one of Russ’s favorite accomplishments.

Russ has witnessed considerable changes in the HVAC field, especially in technology. Equipment has evolved from analog to computer-controlled systems, requiring more advanced skills and an understanding of digital controls. The constant evolution of technology means that even as an instructor, learning never ends. “You have to keep learning to stay one step in front of your students.”

One of the most significant changes Russ has enjoyed seeing in recent years is making the program available to high school students through the busing option with Cleveland County Schools. “Watching them learn about HVAC, even though they may not go into the field is a pleasure,” he says, “and I do get to see some of them go out into the field or continue their education.”

Russ goes on to say that he believes “that is the way of the future for recruiting technicians, getting the high school students into these programs.”

Russ and his wife, who is also retired, are looking forward to this next chapter of their lives. They plan to travel, particularly to revisit England and see what has changed since they lived there while Russ was in the Navy. They’ve already enjoyed road trips out West and plan to explore the New England states and spend more time with their daughters, who live in Raleigh. Russ also plans to stay active in his community by volunteering at his church and doing maintenance projects there.

Reflecting on his time at Cleveland Community College, Russ says, “I have enjoyed working here greatly. I’ve made a lot of friends over the 22 years that I’ve worked here.”

Russ will finish his final semester as a full-time instructor at CCC in December. We wish him well. Happy Retirement Russ!