Clint Nickoles is Kuyper’s New Director of Physical Plant
On September 11, 2001, Clint Nickoles was a young soldier at the National Training Center in Fort Irwin, California. More than two decades later, his career path—from the military to church and school work—has shaped him into a leader and mentor. Now, as Kuyper College’s new Director of Physical Plant, he looks forward to guiding students while ensuring the campus remains safe and welcoming.
“I was watching TV while eating breakfast. No one knew what was going on at first, and we just had to guard everything on post until we found out more information,” he recalled.
At Kuyper, Nickoles oversees all campus maintenance operations and groundskeeping services. This often involves working closely with the Director of Campus Operations to provide the best campus environment possible, though the two roles have distinct functions. His time in the military is just one piece of a background that reflects a deep commitment to service and mentorship.
Most recently, Nickoles was Facilities Director at Kentwood Community Church, though he has also been a behavior specialist for Kentwood Public Schools and has extensive experience as a handyman, auto mechanic and middle school youth volunteer. He feels these roles have perfectly prepared him for his new work at Kuyper.
“I feel like I’m drawing from everything I’ve done in my past to answer the questions and opportunities that come up in my work now,” he said, smiling. “And I’m excited to be at a place where I’m trusted to do my job, based on my life experience.”
Training, mentoring and educating students—especially those in their first year—through KuyperWorks will be a significant aspect of his position, providing them with practical skills while ensuring the campus is well-maintained, safe and welcoming.
Because he has a passion for teaching and mentoring, Nickoles says he is especially eager to build deep, meaningful relationships with students.
“I love to teach, preach and talk, but I’m also really looking forward to all those small victories along the way. I want to show the community that the Kuyper campus is a place of revival,” he said.
When he’s not on campus, Nickoles can often be found using his talents to help friends and neighbors, not expecting much in return because, to him, it’s simply a way of fulfilling his Christian call to serve others.
“I know a lot of people are struggling, and I feel like God will take care of me financially. When you do things for people just to enrich God’s kingdom, you get so much more out of it,” he said.
