Lincoln Dads of Lincoln Kids
We’ve featured some fantastic Lincoln Moms, and figured it was time to give a little love to the Dads. Meet a few of our favorites!
Meet the Dads
Ryan, principal at Schoo Middle School, knew he wanted to be in education since 6th grade. He is a life-long educator, having taught at middle and high school levels since 2005.
Dylan is a certified luthier and musician at his studio, McDermott Guitar Co., where he diagnoses, repairs, and maintains guitars, mandolins, banjos, and some violins. He also makes music with various groups in the area.
Brandon is a CliftonStrengths coach. Through his company, McWilliams Coaching, Brandon works with companies such as Lighthouse, Community Action, Eyes on Lincoln, and individual coaching for other passionate people around the nation.
Ryan Escamilla
What are the names and ages of your kids?
Quentin is 13, and Embry is 10.
What do you love about being a dad?
Watching my sons grow up and experience life in a much bigger city than I did, all while trying to pass down the traditions and wisdom from my grandparents and parents has been an amazing ride as a Dad.
What do you enjoy about your career?
Working in public education has allowed me the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the youth of our community for the betterment of our society as a whole. Positively impacting the future lives of my students drives me to love what I do on a daily basis.
What is the best advice someone has given you about being a dad?
My grandfather Escamilla told me long ago, “Always know that your children are watching and looking up to you, even when you don’t notice that they are doing so.” In other words, always living the way you want your children to emulate is crucial in raising a loving family and will carry on long after my parenting days are over.
What are you reading/watching?
Reading Trust Matters: Leadership for Successful Schools, by Megan Tschannen-Moran, and watching season three of The Mandalorian with my sons.
Tell us your best Dad Joke.
How did the barber win the race?
He knew a shortcut.
Dylan McDermott
What are the names and ages of your kids?
Miles is 8, Max is 5, and Marty is 2.
What do you love about being a dad?
One of my favorite parts of being a dad has been seeing the joy of life through my children’s eyes. Whether it’s the excitement for a holiday or reading Harry Potter for the first time, there is magic to be found every day.
What do you enjoy most about being a business owner?
Music has always been an important part of my life. Whether I am repairing an instrument or building one, I feel very blessed that I can help musicians do what they love.
What is the best advice someone has given you about being a dad?
I was once reminded that my kids don’t need me to be perfect. It’s easy to feel inadequate as a parent, but above all else they want to be loved. Everything falls into place after that.
What are you reading/watching?
I just started reading a book called Well of Souls by Kristina R. Gaddy. It’s about the history and evolution of the banjo, an instrument that is commonly misunderstood, so it’s great to learn more.
What are cute things that your kids are saying or doing?
Recently my wife choreographed the musical Cinderella for Pius X High School, and she had been playing the music around the house and all three of our boys have been singing the music at the top of their lungs. Very cute!
Tell us your best Dad Joke.
Why shouldn’t you trust trees?
Because they’re shady.
Brandon McWilliams
What are the names and ages of your kids?
Maesha is 1, and Dakota (fur baby) is 2.
What do you love about being a dad?
I find it fascinating that I get to witness the development process. It feels like she learns something new every day and I get to rediscover the world through her eyes.
What do you enjoy most about being a business owner?
I love the flexibility that allows me to be available for what is most important in the moment. I also love that I get to work with people on developing/discovering their strengths and talents. It is extremely rewarding.
What is the best advice someone has given you about being a dad?
The best advice I got was to trust myself. Have confidence in the parent you’re becoming and give yourself grace along the way.
What are you reading/watching?
I am currently working on my master’s degree so leisure reading has come to a slight halt. However, I always enjoy a good episode of Shark Tank.
What are cute things that your child is saying or doing?
Maesha is extremely fun to be around in the mornings. She is usually in a great mood and loves to start her day with music. Her favorite song is “Fly Like an Eagle” (Seal’s version) and she starts to bounce, clap, and dance! It is an amazing way to start the day.
Tell us your best Dad Joke.
What did Baby Corn say to Mama Corn?
Where’s Pop Corn?
