Faculty Spotlight – Greg Johnson

We are proud to spotlight Greg Johnson, instructor of the Powersports Equipment/Small Engine Technician program at Washington County Community College. Greg has served as the program’s full-time instructor for the past 13 years after previously teaching night classes as an adjunct instructor for four to five years. Now celebrating his 40th year in the industry, Greg brings decades of real-world experience, technical knowledge, and mentorship into the classroom every day.

A Day in Greg’s Role

Greg’s favorite part of teaching is the connection he builds with students throughout the year. Long after graduation, many alumni still keep in touch with him regularly, often greeting him with the nickname “Mr. Polaris.” Whether former students need career advice, technical support, or simply want to catch up, Greg is always willing to help.

For Greg, teaching is about much more than engines and repairs. He enjoys watching students grow in confidence as they develop hands-on skills and discover what they are passionate about within the industry. He especially enjoys those “aha moments” when students figure something out on their own and realize what they are capable of achieving.

What Makes Greg’s Program Stand Out

The Powersports Equipment/Small Engine Technician Certificate program was developed to train students as professional entry-level outdoor power propulsion and small engine technicians through a combination of classroom theory and hands-on experience.

Students work on a wide variety of two- and four-cycle small engines used to power lawn mowers, snowblowers, generators, garden tractors, rototillers, snowmobiles, motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, personal watercraft, outboard motors, and construction equipment. In Greg’s words, “really anything with a small engine.”

One of the most unique aspects of the program is the learning environment itself. The classroom is located directly beside the shop, allowing students to move seamlessly between instruction and hands-on practice. Students gain experience working on live equipment, interacting with customers, and troubleshooting real-world mechanical issues. They can even bring in their own equipment to repair and learn from.

Greg has intentionally built the program to expose students to a wide range of equipment and technologies during the nine-month program. While students gain experience in many different areas, Greg also helps them discover their niche and tailors learning opportunities to fit their interests and career goals.

Another standout feature is that this is the only program of its kind in the state of Maine, making it a unique opportunity for students interested in the powersports and small engine industry.

Program Outcomes and Opportunities

Throughout the program, students work toward a variety of industry-recognized certifications and professional skills, including demonstrating professionalism in the workplace, interpreting service information and repair manuals, and working towards EETC 4-Stroke Technician Certification, Briggs & Stratton and Kohler Engine Certifications, Stihl Bronze Training, and Mercury Outboard Technician Certification.

Students interested in continuing their education can also pursue a Mechanical Technology Associate’s degree by combining two certificate programs, such as Heavy Equipment Operations, Automotive Technology, Diesel and Automotive Engine Overhaul, Powersports Equipment and Small Engines, or Welding Technology, along with general education requirements.

The program prepares students to maintain, diagnose, and repair a variety of outdoor power equipment and small engines quickly and accurately. Students who successfully complete the program may find employment opportunities as service technicians, sales personnel, equipment rental staff, and factory representatives. Some graduates may even choose to open their own businesses.

Greg emphasized that nearly every shop in Maine is currently hiring, including dealerships, golf courses, and repair facilities. He often tells students that this trade can keep them busy year-round, especially during Maine winters.

Greg’s Journey in His Field

Greg’s career began at WCVTI in Eastport, Maine, where he studied Marine Painting at the Boat School. He later moved to Connecticut and took over a paint department, an experience that helped shape his leadership style and work ethic.

Greg frequently shares with students the importance of working under experienced professionals early in their careers. He believes learning from mentors allows students to see both effective leadership techniques and areas they would improve themselves in the future. He encourages students to always keep learning, seek out mentors, and remain open to growth throughout their careers.

Outside of the Classroom

Outside of teaching, Greg enjoys traveling, riding motorcycles (he owns three of them), and spending summers on the lake with his grandchildren. He loves relaxing on his pontoon boat and “being a beach bum.”

Three Words to Describe Greg

Patient, Understanding, and a Good Listener.

Looking Toward the Future

Greg is passionate about continuing to grow the program and keeping pace with new industry technology. His goal is to ensure students leave the program feeling confident, capable, and career ready.

His advice to anyone considering the program is simple: if you enjoy working with your hands, solving problems, and experiencing the satisfaction that comes with figuring something out, this could be the perfect fit. Whether students want to pursue a full-time career, start their own business, or simply develop valuable skills, Greg believes the program offers an incredible opportunity to learn from real industry experience.

One moment that has stayed with Greg throughout his teaching career involves a student from his very first graduating class. The student was preparing to become a father while enrolled in the program, and Greg remembers watching him mature throughout the year as they challenged one another to improve.

Now, more than a decade later, Greg still keeps in touch with him and reflects on how meaningful those long-term relationships with students have become. The student’s child is now 13 years old, a reminder of just how lasting those connections can be.

Thank You, Greg!

Thank you, Greg, for your years of dedication, mentorship, and commitment to hands-on education. Your patience, experience, and passion for teaching continue to inspire the next generation of skilled technicians across Maine and beyond.