Richard participated in electrical, woodworking, and safety projects as a 4-H member, leading to an interest and focus in technology education. He served for 12 years as statewide 4-H contact for Mechanical Science/Engineering projects. His work has included development of curriculum and activities in science processes, robotics, computers, GIS/GPS, bio-security, and environmental issues such as watersheds and wildlife habitats. He served on many 4-H projects and reviews statewide and nationally. Richard was member of development and leadership team of the 4-H SERIES curriculum, an NSF/Kellogg funded science program disseminated nationally through 4-H, and Western Regional Director coordinating the trainings in the 13 western states.
Richard served on 4-H and NASA Explorers Institute to design collaborative 4-H programs. He was Board member of the Challenger Learning Center of the San Joaquin Valley. He served on the National 4-H SET Leadership Team to develop a national plan and professional development for 4-H Science, Engineering and Technology. He was Co-PI for the National 4-H Robotics Curriculum Development Project, lead author of the 4-H Junk Drawer Robotics, and provided many workshops on science processes, inquiry, and experiential learning. Richard has partnered with other groups, including the California Girls Collaborative, Challenger Learning Centers, Merced Co. Office of Education, 4-H/Military Kids program and state-supported afterschool programs.
