Don West came to UMass Dartmouth to begin his second career.  Budget cuts found him on the layoff chopping block despite 21 years of service at Electric Boat Manufacturing.  Unsure what to do next he decided to do what he knew and what he was passionate about.  West went back to school and earned his degree in Exercise Science from the University of Rhode Island before joining the staff here at UMass Dartmouth in July of 2000.  He is certified by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (CSCS) as well as the USA Weightlifting Association.  West is a true outdoorsman who leads a very active lifestyle regularly making kayaking, cycling, hiking, or even yard work part of his daily routine.

West's primary duties in the UMass Dartmouth Fitness Center include designing, implementing, and monitoring training programs for student athletes as well as helping students and staff alike meet their fitness goals.