Originally from California, Derek Fernelius found his way to Prescott after family vacations led him to the Southwest.

He’s a Yavapai College Alumni, who completed all three years of the gunsmithing program, earning him an advanced gunsmithing certificate.  In addition to gunsmithing, he completed 3 semesters of engraving, to receive his journeyman engraving certificate.  Instructor Fernelius has worked for YC since Spring of 2022, teaching the engraving class for the gunsmithing program.  

With an interest in firearms and art most of his life, it just seems natural to bring the two interests together in the form of engraving.  Which is now the focus of his professional career.  When he’s not teaching, Derek enjoys working on engraving projects and designs, and personal gunsmithing projects, which include making tools and fixtures for the trade.

If you see Instructor Fernelius on campus, be sure and say hello.  

Welcome Derek, the gunsmithing program is glad to have you on the team.