When Eureka resident Brian Boggs’ daughters left for college, he decided to continue sharing his knowledge of math, science and engineering by volunteering to tutor students at Eureka Public Library for free. (Photo courtesy of Eureka Public Library)

Math. Such a harmless little word to represent often one of the most difficult and taunting of subjects for most people. 

But one local man is hoping to reduce the angst and frustration that math presents for students. 

Brian Boggs volunteers his expertise and assistance at Eureka Public Library on Tuesday evenings from 5:30 to 8 p.m., Boggs tutors STEM subjects to whomever needs homework help. 

STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) are second nature for Boggs, who earned a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering and a master’s degree in electrical engineering from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, is a senior engineer at Caterpillar, Inc. 

In his 31 years with Caterpillar, Boggs has frequently written documents and presentations, so he also offers students tutoring in English.  

“I’ve been writing and communicating in business for more than 30 years, so I’m comfortable with helping out with English comp,” he said. 

Boggs began visiting the library at the beginning of the school year, offering 30-minute one-on-one sessions to middle and high school students in the lower level children’s Library, by appointment and walk-in. He also welcomes children who are homeschooled. 

“It takes a good half-an-hour to accomplish anything useful,” he said. “Having five kids would be outstanding, and, if I need more time, I’ll certainly think that through.” 

Library program director Cindy O’Neill manages around 25 programs per month, and helped allocate a space on the calendar for Boggs’ tutoring. 

“Brian approached us with the idea and said it would be a good way to give back to the community,” O’Neill said. “We are very happy to have him here and to make this service available.”  

Boggs has lived in Eureka for 10 years, and the impetus for volunteering was his daughters. After both grew up and moved away, Boggs felt compelled to “put his money where his mouth is” and help other students. 

“I always felt that science and technology are very important, but a lot of kids are reluctant to ask for help if they don’t understand,” he said. “If there’s something I don’t recall, I can always study up on the topic they need help with, do some research for when they come back the following week.” 

It’s not his first foray into community service. In August, the Eureka Illinois Dog Park Committee made the following post to its Facebook page, “Small steps forward toward finishing the dog park … Stationary fire hydrant set on concrete in small dog park. Shout out to Brian Boggs, who happen to be at the dog park, and helped us set a 250# real fire hydrant! It looks AWESOME!!” 

Just a handful of students have sought Boggs’ help, but awareness of his tutoring is still trending. 

“It’s growing, and he’s very dedicated to be here every Tuesday night,” O’Neill said. “He’s also welcome to see students from other districts. We’re more than happy to provide this space. It’s completely free and it’s a wonderful thing to offer students.” 

— CAT engineer volunteers to tutor STEM at Eureka Library  —