Brent Wheeler

Commercial Music Program Coordinator and Professor of Music

2026 Faculty Excellence Award

 

For Brent Wheeler, music is more than performance or production. It is a pathway to growth, connection, and opportunity.

After more than two decades at South Plains College, Brent has received a Faculty Excellence Award, which recognizes his dedication to teaching, program leadership, and student success.

Brent brings a strong academic background to his role. He received a Bachelor of Music from Utah State University in 2002, earned a Master of Music from Bowling Green State University in 2003, and participated in post-graduate studies at Texas Tech University.

With 24 years of teaching experience, including 22 years full-time at SPC, Brent said his passion for music education is rooted in its broader impact.

“I believe in what good art can accomplish for the individual and for communities at large,” he said. “As a professor and coordinator of the commercial music program, I feel honored to have the opportunity to teach music, an essential part of our society and culture.”

As a program coordinator, Brent plays a vital role in shaping curriculum and preparing students for life after college. He said his responsibilities extend beyond the classroom to creating opportunities and advocating for student growth.

“My responsibilities at SPC are to ensure students are learning skills and using technology relevant in an ever-changing industry,” he said. “I also create experiences, advocate for students, position faculty in places of greatest impact, and assist students in understanding the steps needed to fulfill their potential and magnify their ambitions.”

Brent’s impact is seen in the success of his former students. Over the years, he has watched graduates go on to achieve milestones across the music industry, including Grammy wins and nominations, recognition in national songwriting competitions, and careers with major companies such as Sony Music and Warner Bros. Others have pursued teaching positions, completed advanced degrees, or built independent careers as artists and performers.

In addition to his work in the classroom, Brent has remained actively involved in campus and community initiatives. He has served on scholarship and search committees, directed youth music programs, and contributed to efforts such as Upward Bound, the ACE Program, and SPC art camps and ensembles.

Brent also emphasizes the importance of community engagement, both within and beyond the College. He has coached Little League Baseball and Little Dribblers’ Basketball in Levelland and served in church leadership roles for more than 20 years. He said these memorable experiences strengthened his connection to the West Texas region.

“As someone who strongly believes in giving back to society, the concept of a community college serving its community resonates deeply with me,” he said.

Despite the many hats he wears, Brent is always open to helping students discover their potential through music. His Faculty Excellence Award not only reflects his hard work but also his dedication to his students, colleagues, and fellow community members in West Texas.