Meet the Drive America Staff

Director and Assistant Director

My name is Paul Sajdak. I am the Director of Drive America. Some of my roles as director are overseeing the instructors and the curriculum, connecting with local school leadership to schedule classes and provide updates and maintaining the safety of the car fleet. I am excited about working with the local schools and expanding in other areas to grow CAPE. I was hired to help with the growth of CAPE in 2022 when they purchased Drive America LLC.

My name is Mickey Hawkins. I am the Assistant Director of Drive America. I am the person you will normally connect with to register, and process all your paperwork.
I love helping teens become independent and facilitate the transition into the driving world. I look forward to working with the local families, and making a difference.

INSTRUCTORS

Hello, my name is Gary Miller. I'm a troll from the thumb area of the lower peninsula. After living in the U.P. for 35 years (8 years of college and 26 years of teaching Industrial Arts), I consider the Keweenaw my home. I hope that qualifies me to be an honorary Yooper. I enjoy teaching Driver's Ed and I want to continue doing so into my retired years.

Hi! My name is Richard Wickstrom. I recently retired after 29 years with the Michigan Department of Corrections. Drivers Education is something rewarding for me to focus on and allows me to give back to the community. I am excited about helping young drivers reduce their risk and become safer drivers.

Hello, my name is Jack Powell. It has been my pleasure to teach for Drive America for several years. I have met many wonderful students and parents along the way. Hopefully these students have become safe, knowledgeable and courteous drivers as they "Drive America."

Hello! I am Mrs. Tamara Pietila.
I have eleven children, and soon to be 12 grandchildren.
I've been teaching Drivers Ed since the fall of 2021.
I also drive school bus for the Chassell Schools and also work as a substitute in the district.
In my spare time I enjoy pretty much anything outdoors, puzzles, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
I've enjoyed working with the Driver Ed students as they begin this new journey in their lives. They are eager to learn and are appreciative of all the help along the way.

Hi, my name is Todd Tehako. Drivers Education Instructor for Drive America. I am a Marine Corps veteran and retiree. I am currently employed with L'Anse Area Schools. I enjoy my time with new drivers. I am looking forward to driving with you.
I am looking forward to sharing my experience with you.

Hello, my name is Daniel Wenberg. I have been fishing, hunting, gardening, and teaching since the 1900’s. Daniel joined the Drive America team during the 2013-14 school year.

Hello, my name is Abe Voelker and I have lived in the Copper Country my whole life. I live in Calumet with my wife and 3 sons and have taught at Calumet High School since 1999. I also teach driver education for CLK as well as Drive America and have enjoyed the chance to help students learn to be safe and responsible drivers.

Hi, my name is Sarah Sohlden and am a graduate of MTU with a BS in Mechanical Engineering. I have over 20 years of experience with Computer Aided Drafting. In 2022 I became certified as a Driver's Ed Instructor. After teaching my first couple of classes, I realized just how passionate I am at helping students and pursued the position of Academic Advisor in the Mechanical Engineering department at Michigan Tech University. My husband Jesse and I have been married for 20 years and together we have 2 daughters, Kamryn and Kylee. We live in Chassell and enjoy anything that involves being outdoors, especially hunting and fishing!!