Get to Know Josh Garcia, Access and Accommodations Specialist

What is your name, and where did you grow up?

Josh Garcia. I was born in San Antonio, Texas, but grew up in Rockford.

What was your journey to this role? Where did you go to school? What did you study?

This is my first position out of graduate school. I was a stay-at-home dad while finishing grad school at Grand Canyon University. I studied Sociology with an emphasis in Social Work in my undergrad. In my master’s program, I studied Sociology with an emphasis in Education.

Is there something that drew you to this career?

I think community college is a good transition point into adulthood for most students.It’s where students find out their career interests if they haven’t already. I like the idea of helping with that process in any way I can.

What motivated you to apply for this position at Blackhawk?

I see Blackhawk as a growing college that has a lot to offer.

What is your life like outside of work? Family? Community involvement? Adorable pets?

I am the co-founder and board member of the Stateline Disc Golf Association, which is constantly growing the sport of disc golf through course design/expansion, leagues and tournaments, and community volunteer opportunities. My family consists of my lovely wife, Tiffany; my stepson, Anthony; my wild toddler, Theo; and our dog, Dexter, aka El Duderino.

Tell us something about yourself you think people would be surprised to know.

I play professional disc golf and was a music producer/sound engineer. I also know a good amount of American Sign Language.

Do you play any musical instruments?

I play the guitar, a little drums, and was a vocalist. I can’t really read music anymore but can pick up most instruments relatively quickly.

What's one song that must always be on your playlist?

“Turn Those Clapping Hands Into Angry Balled Fists” by Against Me!

What was your first concert?

I grew up in the music scene, so I have no idea what my first would be. But some of my favorite concerts were seeing Incubus at The Rave and Against Me! at the Warped Tour.

What is your favorite movie?

Anything Star Wars!

What is your favorite TV show?

I repeat… Anything Star Wars, haha. I really like Game of Thrones, True Detective and other kinds of docuseries/documentaries about history or true crime.

What/who is your favorite sports team or pro athlete?

Any Chicago team (Cubs > Sox) and Manchester United! My favorite athletes are Messi and Georges St-Pierre.