Sam Phu has been an automotive faculty member at San Diego Continuing Education (SDCE) in the 79th District since 2010. He also currently serves as the Department Chair for SDCE’s Automotive, Skilled and Technical Trades.
As a business owner, Sam has presented opportunities of training and education in the field of automotive technology to individuals of various backgrounds. He has demonstrated the ability, interest, and communication skills needed to educate others in this field. Sam has been instrumental in the development and implementation of SDCE’s current articulation agreement with San Diego Miramar College. Based on this agreement, if a student successfully completes SDCE’s Auto Technician program they are eligible to receive 26 college credits toward an Associate degree in Automotive Technology at Miramar College.
Sam holds various degrees and certifications including ASE Master Certified Mechanic, and L-1 Advance Engine Performance Technician. As he has learned to fix and understand cars, he has gone beyond by applying the same principles and theories of automotive technology to teach and guide others. Sam is also a member of the Automotive Service Counsel in California, and was named the Distinguished Alumni from Miramar College.
Sam created the Sam Phu Achievement Scholarship, which supports deserving students with the needed tools for a career in the automotive industry. This has recently benefited ten SDCE students, whom were the recipients of the scholarship in 2019.
Sam is highly motivated, hard-working and engaged. He has dedicated over half of his life to the auto repair industry and will spend the next several decades guiding students into future careers in the industry. Many faculty and staff look to Sam for guidance and leadership. His energy and passion for the automotive industry are making a positive impact on SDCE and in the San Diego community.