Et cetera : AmeriCorps NCCC Class 19 Team Leader Spotlight: Kyle Swatfager

By: Rebecca Bigler

Kyle Swatfager, from Austin, Minn., is the Team Leader for Oak 2 in NCCC’s Class 19. He arrived in Vinton on January 8, 2013, to start his 11-month service term leading a team of people between the ages of 18 and 24. Oak 2 is made up of 11 people from across the country, and they will serve together in a number of service projects across the North Central Region.

“NCCC is appealing as a vessel in both giving back and building community, while developing my leadership skills,” Kyle said. He is also interested to learn about how the program functions. “The service itself gives me an inside look at the internal workings of a national organization, how they promote, place, and select within, along with inter-organizational community.”

Kyle has several skills that he brings with him to the Team Leader position. He has experience in the field of communication as well as psychology, which will help him connect and understand his teammates. “I love outdoor activities such as backpacking, canoeing, ice hockey and fishing, which keep me busy, but am humbled through working, attempting to play music, family, and friends.”

Prior to joining NCCC, Kyle had graduated from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities with a double major in psychology and sociology, minoring in philosophy. He also graduated from Austin High School in 2005. After finishing the program, Kyle plans to enroll in grad school for Industrial Organizational Psychology, teach at a charter school, or work at a non-profit.

Kyle’s previous work experience has played a large part in his current skill set. ”I have had a diverse job background from meat packing plants to facilitating at the Jane Addams School for Democracy. Beyond this, my willingness to share and converse with literally everyone is something I foresee lending me to new adventure and opportunity to a lifelong learning experience.”

Oak 2’s first project is with Lakeshore Habitat for Humanity in Holland, Mich. The team is involved in a range of activities associated with the building and repair of housing for low-income members of the Holland community. Members are involved in all aspects of building a home from start to 75% completion. Tasks include floor framing, wall layout, wall framing and installing roof trusses.

Some fun facts about Kyle:

Q: What was your first job? Maintenance at a Nursing Home

Q: What is your favorite movie? Reservoir Dogs

Q: What will be your first words of advice for your team members? “Collective consciousness”

Q: What is one place in the world that you really, really wish you could visit? Japan

Q: What is your favorite candy? Reese’s

Q: If you could come back as an animal which animal would it be and why? Polar bear, to beat the odds.

Q: Are there any sayings your parents repeated over and over that you can still remember clearly? Golden rule

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? Read, outdoor activities

Q: Could you give us one reason to join AmeriCorps NCCC? Real world leadership