On this episode of The Local Insider, host Brian Cooper sits down with Bill Holbert—a man whose life journey has taken him from the oil fields of Odessa, Texas, to the remote jungles of Belize, and now to the heart of Booneville, Arkansas.

Bill’s story is one of adventure, dedication, and faith. After graduating high school in Basalt, Colorado, he pursued a degree in civil engineering from the University of Nevada, Reno, launching a career that led him to major roles with Peter Kiewit Construction, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the U.S. Forest Service and the USGS. His work took him across the country—from Texas to Alaska—where he played a critical role in infrastructure and construction projects.

But Bill’s story doesn’t stop at engineering. In 1998, he met his wife Stacy, and in 2012, they embarked on a new adventure—retirement in the country of Belize. There, they lived off the grid in a cabin in “the bush,” dedicating their time to teaching local students computer skills. Eventually, they returned to the U.S. and settled in Booneville to care for Stacy’s mother.

Today, Bill continues to serve his community in a new way. He and Stacy run Stacy Holbert Photo Art, capturing memories at local sports games and creating custom photo art projects for graduating seniors. Bill is also a man of strong faith, leading a Sunday school class of over 30 adults every week at First Baptist Church in Booneville.

Join us as we dive into Bill’s incredible life story—his career in engineering, his time in Belize, his passion for family, and the faith that has guided him through it all.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! Like, share, and subscribe to The Local Insider for more stories from the fascinating people who make our communities special.