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Advising
Eugene Helfrick
For Eugene Helfrick, the path to a fulfilling career isn’t always a straight line; sometimes, it involves a few cows, a lot of hockey and a deep understanding of how to connect the dots.
Since joining SPC in late 2023, Eugene has served as a Career Academic Advisor at the Tarpon Springs Campus. With nearly a decade of experience in higher education – including seven years at Pasco-Hernando State College – he has dedicated his career to helping students find their direction, even when they aren’t sure where to start.
“A lot of students know they have ideas, but they don’t know how those ideas translate to a career,” Eugene said. “Or if they do have a career in mind, they don’t know how to get there. It’s a lot of working with students and being front facing, which I enjoy because I have the social energy you need to talk to students 8 to 10 hours a day.”
Growing up in Myakka City on a subsistence cattle farm, Eugene’s background in beef cattle is a “tidbit” many of his colleagues might not know. Coming from rural America, he recalls the pressure of feeling like college was the only path to success. Today, he uses that perspective to provide realistic guidance to his students, whether they are aiming for aerospace engineering or seeking workforce certifications.
“Sometimes the answer isn’t always with SPC immediately,” he explained, noting how he sometimes refers students to PTEC for trade licensing. “I’ve seen students go get their HVAC credentials, get their own truck, and then come back to SPC to learn how to start a business with it. Seeing all the work they put into it come together is a reward of this job.”
Eugene says the transition to becoming a Titan has been seamless, largely due to the College’s strong presence in the community.
“Pinellas County recognizes SPC in a way that feels different than other colleges,” Eugene said. “Everyone seems to have a connection to the College. I’ve had people stop me on the street because I’m wearing an SPC shirt just to ask about programs. It’s an easy sell because the community has bought into the value SPC brings.”
When he isn’t helping students map out their futures, Eugene is a dedicated sports enthusiast. A massive Tampa Bay Lightning fan, he has even spent time writing for hockey websites. He also enjoys cooking for his wife, often planning their weekly meals well in advance.
As he approaches his 10th year in higher education, Eugene remains excited about the opportunities ahead.
“I’ve really enjoyed the new opportunities presented here,” he said. “I’m excited to be a Titan!”
