To most of science teacher Todd Decker’s students, it’s hard to believe the soft-spoken chemistry instructor was involved in piloting for the air force during the Gulf War.

lhsimage.com asks him about his transition from the plane to the school room.

Q: What did you enjoy about the Air Force?
A: Flying fighter jets. That’s the reason I joined the Air Force.

Q: Why did you make the transition from Air Force to teaching?
A: I didn’t want to make it a career. After I got out, I did substitute teaching and decided I liked it.

Q: Why did you decided to teach chemistry?
A: My original degree from the University of Missouri was in biochemistry.

Q: In what ways is being a teacher more difficult than being in the Air Force?
A: Being a teacher, there’s so many things to do in a short period of time. While in the Air Force, it was stressful taking check rides.

Q: Do you think the experience has helped you become a better teacher?
A: Yes, you need self confidence in both. I was an instructor in the Air Force so I think that also helped me in teaching.