What’s your name and your connection to Arkansas Tech?

My name is Brent Garrett, and I’m the owner of Sirius Plumbing and Air Conditioning. I’m proud to serve on the Arkansas Tech University Foundation Board.

How are you using what you learned at Arkansas Tech to have success?

I have been an entrepreneur for most of my adult life. My degree and studies focused on accounting and marketing. I have used my accounting, management and marketing studies every day of my business life. However, I do wish that I had chosen more liberal arts classes as electives.

What were you involved in during your time at Arkansas Tech?

In addition to my athletic involvement as a quarterback on the football team and as a golf team member, I was also a student leader at the ATU Wesley Foundation, Student Government President, and a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Leadership, public speaking/communication, and problem solving were invaluable skills gained through my experiences with these organizations.

In your time at Arkansas Tech, is there a faculty or staff member who had a positive impact on your life?

Bill Lemley, Dr. Olin Cook, Dr. Kenneth Kersh and Coach Harold Steelman. They all helped me more than I realized. They did this in their own way by sharing their values, wise counsel, depth of character, and overall encouragement.

What in your opinion makes Arkansas Tech the special place that it is?

I received so much support from coaches, faculty, and administration. I am convinced their example, support, and help provided the foundation for my success later in my life. Simply, my path and trajectory in life was set at Arkansas Tech.