A Master Instructor, Flaherty has been teaching for 20 years. Handling four to five courses per term, his program includes to a 16-month associate’s degree in Specialized Technology.

He has been an advocate for his students and his program, arranging for donations of equipment for training from major manufacturers such as Mani-towoc, Scotsman, and Armstrong. He has coordinated field trips to various locations for students to see different avenues to pursue their careers, such as the Civic Arena, Ross Park Mall, Pitts-burgh Brewing, Robertshaw Controls, Carrier Transicold, and others.

Flaherty created four electrical wiring trainers. He also has put together service field work, such as working with the Port Authority on air conditioning problems and assisting students in repairing ice machines for St. Sebastian’s School and Pittsburgh Guild for the Blind.

He is currently working to start a student chapter of the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) at his school. Flaherty has been a member of RSES since 1979. “He goes far and beyond the call of duty to help students, and other instructors,” one student said.

It all adds up to a passion for teaching for this dedicated teacher.

Publication date: 09/25/2000