Milford 2014 Candidate Profile: John W. Erickson, Milford School Committee

Editor's Note: The following profile is part of a series highlighting the candidates running for seats in contested races as part of this year's town election, which takes place on Tuesday, April 1. Milford Patch has reached out to all candidates in the contested races to showcase why they're running and what they hope to bring to the table. Check back leading up to the election for more profiles on the candidates.

John W. Erickson is running for the Milford School Committee along with David Levine, Joseph E. Callery and Jennifer Parson. For the full preliminary ballot for this year's election, click here.

Why are you running for the Milford School Committee?

I am running for School Committee because it is one of the most important boards in the community as it is responsible to ensure the proper preparation of students for their next step in life as well as disburses nearly $40 million worth of taxpayer money. I am finally at a point in my personal and professional life where I can commit to this cause.

What do you hope to accomplish on the committee? 

I hope to ensure that students at all level of achievement are receiving proper resources.

What do you see is the most pressing issue facing Milford right now in relation to the seat for which you're running?  

The most pressing issue at this moment will be the construction and implementation of the new Woodland School and ensuring that it is completed on time and on budget.

What do you think you could do to help resolve this issue?   

The issue doesn't need to be "resolved" as it is not yet a "problem", we just need to continue on the path that is in place and closely examine every facet of this project. My educational background as an engineer,along with my extensive construction experience and professional status as a Certified Building Official makes me well suited to be a part of this team.

Name one unique idea you would like to bring to the table if elected in April. 

If elected, one idea I would like to pursue is to create a program that will allow students who may not plan on attending college to gain exposure and co-operative education opportunities in area such as building trades.