Longtime Bakersfield College computer science professor and administrator Greg Chamberlain plans to retire by the end of this school year.

Chamberlain began his career at BC in 1989. His journey has been far from boring.

He served in a number of positions including: director of Academic Computing, faculty chair for the Computer Studies Department, director of Instructional Technology, dean of Learning Resources and Information Technology, vice chancellor of Educational Services for the Kern Community College District, and president of BC.

Of all his positions, Chamberlain affirmed that teaching was his favorite.

“I love what I do and to be able to share that with students and to be able to help them. I believe technology is changing, has changed, and will continue to change the world. Students that know more about that are better suited to do well in life,” said Chamberlain.

He has aided many students to reach the path of success and to, as he stated, “do well in life.” That is something Chamberlain made clear that he truly cherishes.

“One of the things students don’t understand is how important they are to faculty,” he said. “Any students who can take a moment and send an email or write a note to any teacher that’s made a difference in their lives, that’s what we live for.”

Chamberlain wanted to make a difference in schools throughout the district. His focus and goal to bring technology to the classroom led to his various administrative positions.

After 12 years as an administrator, Chamberlain returned to his favorite aspect of his career in 2012, teaching.

“You can do certain things as an administrator, but you’re not directly involved with the students, and that’s the thing I love most about education,” said Chamberlain.

In 2012, Chamberlain resigned from his presidency at BC to return to the classroom. He stated that it was a tough job, “especially personnel issues; you’re dealing with people’s lives.” He went on to say that, “one of the things that I’m really proud of is the fact that we didn’t lay off any full-time faculty.”

Chamberlain believes he has made a difference. However, he disagrees with the notion that students should thank him for their successes.

He believes they should thank themselves because they are the ones who work hard in order to succeed; he just helped guide them along the way.

“It’s always really great, and I’m always really proud when I hear about what past students are doing with their lives,” said Chamberlain. “I truly believe in the community college, and I believe it’s a place for all kinds of students.”

Chamberlain plans to travel more during his retirement. He mentioned that he has been to all 50 states in the country, but his wife has not.

As he stated, “It’s time to start over.”