Our great staff

Superintendent
Jean Thomas

Jean Thomas joined the staff at the Academy of Building Industries as principal when the school opened in the 2004-05 school year. Holding a Masters in Educational Leadership and a Bachelors of Science in Education, with an Emphasis in Art, from Northern Arizona University. 

We are pleased to announce that Jean has become the Superintendent of the Academy of Building Industries. Jean has been the principal of AOBI for 18 years, and we’re excited to see this new transformation for AOBI.

Jean will maintain her role as the academic advisor for all staff, as well as oversee all goings-on on campus. She will continue her dedication to support the strong team of staff at AOBI, and to foster a family-like atmosphere for all staff and students. 

Principal
Rainee Hanson

Rainee Hanson joined the staff at the Academy when it opened for its first year in 2004-05. Holding a Master of Arts in Health Psychology from NorthCentral University, she actively executes the offices of Student Services (Registrar/ Enrollment, Guidance/ Counseling, and Records). 

With 22 years of experience working with children in education, and 18 years dedicated to AOBI, Rainee is now the Principal of the Academy of Building Industries.

Rainee’s focus mirrors previous principal Jean Thomas’ vision, AOBI is a family-like atmosphere. With a smaller student population, we are able to help every student individually by making them feel a part of their school where they have a voice. All students should feel safe, welcome, and comfortable to make friends, communicate with adults, and simply enjoy attending school. 

Vocational Director
Coy O’Kelley

Coy joined the team at the Academy in 2005 as the instructor of the welding and metals classes. Today, Coy not only oversees the welding and automotive courses, but he is also the Vocational Director managing the entire vocational department.

Coy’s background experience in welding and machine technology has lead him to rewarding highlights throughout his career, including owning and operating his own engine and automotive business for over 20 years.

SPED/ Resource
Michele Trautwein

With over 12 years of teaching experience, Michele holds a Bachelors of Science in Special Education and joined our staff in 2022.  She is our Special Education Director, special education teacher and 504 program coordinator.

Business Manager
Jeri Young

Jeri has served the Academy of Building Industries since its launch in 2004, starting as an Instructional Aide and eventually becoming the Business Manager. Since college, Jeri’s primary focus has been centered in business leading her to many opportunities throughout her  career ranging in positions from receptionist to service representative and management.

At the Academy, Jeri fulfills a wealth of duties from purchasing to Human Resources in addition to instructing two elective Business Math classes. These classes teach students the basics in business mathematics, inventory, and cash register operation.

Office Manager
Sierra Sowder

 As a student, Sierra began as an office intern at AOBI. Due to her excellent performance, she was hired upon graduation as the office secretary.  Sierra is an invaluable asset to AOBI, taking on any job she’s given and doing an exemplary job. She has now become AOBI’s first Office Manager.

AOBI’s Excellent Teachers