Ernst also served as Ripon's head men's golf coach, associate professor in the Department of Exercise Science and assistant athletic director.
He earned his master's degree in physical education and athletic administration at the University of Northern Colorado in 1990.
By his second year, the Wildcats were Northern Conference champions, finishing the season in the state semifinal playoffs.
Ernst served as the defensive line coach at the University of Northern Colorado under Joe Glenn from 1989 to 1990.
In 2015, Ernst became the all-time winningest coach in both Midwest Conference and Ripon College history.
He was first named the Midwest Conference Coach of the Year in 1996 when he led the team to a record nine-win season.