Hi, I'm Sean.
I'm proud to have dedicated my life to growing as a professional educator, inspired primarily by the spirit of service. Across my career, I've earned meaningful experience in both virtual and in-person facilitation; customized curriculum development and instructional design; responsive collaboration with local subject matter experts, organizations, and institutions; and more. As an education consultant serving New Mexico's individuals, communities, businesses, and educational/government institutions, I specialize in creating equitable, person-centered learning experiences.
My Story
Born and Raised in New Mexico
I was born at Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque and raised in Placitas, back when there were a lot fewer houses there. In high school, I spent weekends traveling to different parts of New Mexico on the debate team, learning more about our State. Although I spent time living in Philadelphia, Austin, and Los Angeles, it only took 10 years away before New Mexico called me back. This is my home, and I currently live in Albuquerque.
Becoming a Dedicated Educator
Attending college outside of Philadelphia in the post 9/11 years, my understanding of the world grew as I encountered diverse people and ways of life that opened my eyes to my own privilege. I knew that I needed to do meaningful work in the service of others. This is what prompted me to attend UCLA's Teacher Education Program and spend 10 years teaching in South Los Angeles and here in Albuquerque.
Growing Personally and Professionally
Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, things took a turn. My mental health was suffering, I was struggling with alcohol addiction, and I knew something needed to change. I was no longer serving my students, so I sought treatment and have mercifully maintained sobriety since April 2020. This allowed me to appreciate the struggles of others in a new way, and I found new motivation educating adults in public health work.
Launching Ocotillo Training & Consulting
While serving as Education Manager on a grant-funded COVID-19 vaccine and mental health outreach project with the University of New Mexico, I also trained in Motivational Interviewing, earning MINT membership in New Zealand in October 2024. After a year leading Leadership Training with the State's Department of Health, I was ready to launch my own business. Thus, Ocotillo Training and Consulting was born in 2025!
Credentials and Certifications
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University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) - M.Ed.
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Haverford College - B.A. Political Science, Philosophy Minor, Honors
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Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) - Permanent Member
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New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) - Community Health Worker (CHW) Master Trainer
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New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) - Secondary Education, English and Science Endorsements
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CCTE (California Commission on Teacher Credentialing) - Secondary Education, English and Science Endorsements (inactive)
Standing Behind Culturally Responsive Values
My journey through life has only consistently entered the "flow state" of trust and acceptance when I have stood by my values instead of compromising them, even when doing so has involved adversity. I am proud to promote these values at the center of what we do at Ocotillo.