Greg Potts

I never imagined myself pursuing a career in education. My passion for machining began with a summer course in 1976, leading to a career in machining and eventually owning and running machine shops for more than 25 years.

When CU’s Mechanical Engineering Department approached me, I was skeptical about fitting into academia. What I discovered was an opportunity to combine two things I love: designing and creating things and sharing decades of knowledge and experience. This February marks my 20th year with the department, and I can honestly say it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Helping students turn ideas into something real has been incredibly fulfilling, as has watching former students become teachers and mentors themselves.

I am equally grateful for the friendships I have developed at the Idea Forge and throughout CU.

Outside of work, I enjoy time with family and friends, traveling, music, boating, woodworking, gardening, and building things. One of my favorite traditions is our annual Christmas Eve crab boil, where four children, seven grandchildren, and one great-grandchild gather for food, laughter, and memories.

After CU, I look forward to spending more time with family, friends, and my grandchildren, building projects and simply enjoying life.

Looking back, my unexpected journey from machining to education has been filled with opportunity, friendship, family, and making things—and I wouldn't change a thing.