After a career spent in manufacturing, computers and project management, Charles (Chuck) Knezevich now spends much of his free time mentoring young people. In addition to working with high school students through his volunteer work with the Project Management Institute (PMI), Chuck has volunteered with Junior Achievement-Rocky Mountain (JA) since 2011, working primarily with elementary school students at schools all across the Front Range.

“Chuck is my number one ‘go to’ volunteer,” said JA K-8 Program Manager Marla Zuch. “While he lives in Erie, he’s always willing to travel wherever he’s needed, which is a tremendous help. He’s volunteered at schools from Morrison to Thornton and everywhere in between. He is incredibly committed.”

Chuck’s Jeep Grand Cherokee is only two and a half years old, yet it has 60,000 miles on it. It’s fare to say that Chuck is a dedicated volunteer and a man on the move. He has a unique passion for serving young people.

“I sometimes wonder how our younger generation is doing and how they’re going to fare in the future. Then I step into the classroom and I’m not too worried,” said Chuck. “They are pretty much on the ball and eager to learn.”

Students are eager to learn from Chuck, who brings a breadth of experiences and a unique perspective to his time spent with students. And, he admits, it’s kind of fun that they think of him as their grandfather. He particularly likes helping students in the poorest neighborhoods strengthen their confidence and understanding.

“I really enjoy being with young people, he said. A lot of people don’t know what education is like today and how difficult it is for teachers. I see a lot of different schools, have become aware of the challenges in education, and I’ve witnessed the real benefit of programs like JA,” said Chuck.

Chuck currently has his own consulting firm and does a great deal of teaching for PMI’s Mile High Chapter, helping professionals prepare for the project management exam.

He is a proud veteran, having served in the U.S. Army as a Combat Infantry Officer in Vietnam. In addition to his work and volunteerism, Chuck enjoys playing vintage baseball and scuba diving.