Pat Axtell brings more than 25 years of experience in the construction industry to her classroom at Brea Olinda High School. Before becoming an educator, Pat gained extensive hands-on experience in the building industry, including owning and operating his own construction company. His real-world knowledge gives students the opportunity to learn construction skills from someone who has worked directly in the field.

As the teacher of Brea Olinda High School’s Building Industry Trade Academy (BITA), Pat is passionate about preparing students for both careers and everyday life. His program introduces students to the fundamentals of construction while giving them opportunities to work with tools, develop practical skills, solve problems, and create projects they can be proud of.

Pat believes that learning should be hands-on, meaningful, and connected to the real world. Through BITA, he encourages students to discover their strengths, build confidence, develop valuable trade skills, and explore the many career opportunities available in the construction industry. His goal is not only to teach students how to build, but to give them skills they can carry with them for a lifetime.