TRTA State Secretary/Treasurer Gary Schepf has traveled to all 50 states and as far as Egypt to ride a camel around the pyramids in Cairo. His heart, however, longs for the open roads and unique sights found across the big, beautiful state of Texas!
“There are so many places to see in Texas!” says Schepf, who was inspired to explore more of the Lone Star state when he developed a program for the Irving Heritage Society called “Get Your Kicks Along 356: Historical Markers in Irving.” He also got the “sightseeing bug” when traveling to District 14 for speaking engagements.
Like many TRTA members, Gary is making the most of his retirement, and his travel insights and meticulous planning have resulted in a comprehensive travel itinerary of places to see in each of TRTA’s twenty districts!
If you’ve got the traveling bug but want some help getting started and some tips for keeping your adventures affordable, check out Gary’s Texas Sites to See!
Learn all about the local museums, historic landmarks, monuments, murals, and more in your district, or venture out on the open road for a multi-day excursion following Gary’s guide. Your direct route to fun starts here!
Gary’s Tips for Affordable and Efficient Travel:
- Before traveling, research what there is to see along the route, plan to take the long way, and enjoy our unique Texas history.
- Don’t be in a rush and BE FLEXIBLE!
- If the GPS on your car does not recognize a destination, consider using the Google map app on your smartphone.
- Consider becoming a member of hotel groups, such as Marriott Bonvoy, Best Western, Choice, Hyatt, or Hilton to receive discounted rates.
- Use the AMBA Passport app to find exclusive TRTA member discounts on food, hotels, rental cars, and more! To register, visit com, then enter your email and activation code AMBASAVERS.
- Many places offer discounted admission for senior citizens or members of the military.
- Get a free Texas State Parks “Parklands Passport” to receive half-price admission to the parks (“Senior Partial” is half-price).
- Read reviews on local restaurants before hitting the road. Local establishments provide great food at a lower cost and the customer service is fantastic!
Get to know Gary Schepf:
Gary attended the University of North Texas, where he received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Education and English, as well as a Master of Education in Vocational/Technical Education and Computer Science. He also attended Lamar University, earning a Master of Education in School Administration. Gary began his education career in Irving schools in 1978. As a teacher, he taught Business and Computers, Advanced Technology, Robotics, and Video Game Development. He also served as the Career & Technical Education Coordinator for Irving ISD from 2012-2018. Gary is a member of numerous education organizations, including the Association of Career and Technical Education (ACTE), the Association of Texas Professional Educators (ATPE), and the Texas Business & Technology Educators Association (TBTEA).
Gary first joined TRTA in 2013 as an associate member after being invited to a local meeting of the Irving Retired School Personnel Association (IRSPA). In his local, he has served as President, Past President, 2nd Vice-President, and Nominating Committee Chair. He’s also lead TRTA’s District 10 as President, and served as the Parliamentarian, Nominating Committee Chair, and Technology Committee Chair. Gary was recently elected TRTA State Secretary/Treasurer and began serving in July 2024. His other state level volunteerism includes Finance Committee Chair, Co-Lead of the Technology Team, and Technology Task Force.
