Southwestern College’s photography faculty and students agree – lab tech Robert Butler can rattle the cage.
Butler, the interim photo arts lab technician, had large shoes to with the retirement of Carlos Richardson. Previously Richardson’s student worker, Butler stepped up this semester.
A National City native Butler attended Granger Jr. High and Sweetwater High School. Last spring he completed his Associates of Arts degree in photography, as well as all course work for his professional certificate in photography.
Richardson trained Butler over six semesters while he was a federal works study program trainee. He acquired the skills to maintain and repair computer monitors, color calibrate the computers for printing and input student data for check out.
“I am a trouble shooter with all aspects of printing,” he said. “I was a photo student and now a tutor with technical aspects of dry mounting and window matting. I set up the studio for faculty headshots. Art professors send their students’ projects to me to be photographed.”
Photography student Renée Conly said Butler is extremely helpful and courteous.
“Butler is hands on,” she said. “He has a way of explaining things and making difficult concepts easy.”
Charles Goodman III, an SWC alumnus with an Associate Degree in photography, said he is a Butler fan.
“He helps students learn to use extravagant equipment,” Goodman said. “If a student came needing help, I pointed him/her towards Butler.”
Photography major Aimee Briggs described Butler as very patient.
“He took the time to assist in completing projects,” she said. “Butler was quick to respond to new students’ needs. He did this in a calm and patient way.”
Graphic designer Ruben Ortiz said Butler was a serious and professional mentor, teacher and worker.
“He tutored me on how to take a picture,” said Ortiz. “He taught me how to use all the things I borrowed.”
Christopher Ferreria, an adjunct photography instructor, said Butler is easy mannered and puts students at ease.
“Butler creates a sense of community,” said Ferreria. “He carries a sense of authority with the equipment.”
Photography student Mariane Tec said Butler was a great master to learn from.
“Butler helped me a lot in the dark room,” she said. “He had deep knowledge of art.
His mind is never closed to art. Students are happy he is here to keep order.”