Steve spent the majority of his 19-year career as director of the Monroe High School bands. His program grew with the community, reaching over 200 students at the peak of the four-year configuration. His concert and jazz bands consistently received superior ratings at festivals and placed first or second in festivals throughout the Northwest, California and British Columbia. In 1998 Steve added percussion ensemble to the curriculum. He also served as the Monroe School District music coordinator, giving him an opportunity to build music programs at all levels. He has been an adjudicator, guest conductor and clinician for festivals throughout the Northwest. Steve retired from full-time teaching in 2004, after which he continued teaching trumpet lessons and jazz improvisation, and playing trumpet professionally in the Seattle area. He also directed the band program at Canyon Park Junior High in the Northshore district.