ESCANABA — Tom England said he is passonate about serving on the Bay College Board of Trustees because a community college education gave him the start he needed in life.

Retired from Caterpillar, he is running for the board on Nov. 6.

“Years ago, a community college gave me the tools for me to go ahead and further my education to get my degree and put me in the place to where I had a good life. I always go back to the community college time because at that time in your life it truly gives you the tools to go on,” England said.

England was defeated in 2016 after a term on the board. He wants another chance to serve.

And, like when a community college made a difference from him, he is excited about the new early middle college program that allows students to get a free college education with a fifth year of high school.

“Who would have thought that or dreamed that even 10 years ago? It’s just a great opportunity to stay in your hometown, get you the education that you need, help you make decisions and move on to what you want to do with your career,” he said

England is one of four candidates running for two positions full six year terms on the board of trustees.