Who Am I

I grew up in a close-knit farming community just east of Springfield, Missouri, where values like hard work, community, and perseverance were instilled in me from a young age. With a graduating high school class of just 40 students, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in a wide range of activities that shaped my character and built a foundation for the person I am today.

In high school, I was active in basketball and baseball, played the French Horn in the band, and participated in both the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). My academic dedication earned me recognition, including winning the Regional Science and Engineering Fair and competing in the International Science and Engineering Fairs during my junior and senior years. These experiences not only taught me discipline but also sparked my curiosity and drive for lifelong learning.

A Call to Serve

After high school, I answered the call to serve my country by joining the U.S. Army. I completed Basic and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, specializing as a Forward Observer. I further challenged myself by completing Airborne School and the rigorous Ranger Indoctrination Program at Fort Benning, Georgia. My service brought me to Fort Richardson, Alaska, where I met the love of my life, Crystal. Together, we’ve built a family and watched our two sons grow into remarkable individuals.

From Service to Academia

Upon completing my military service, Crystal and I returned to Missouri to start the next chapter of our lives. I entered the workforce while attending night classes to earn a degree in Industrial Management. When a corporate acquisition led to the relocation of my job to Mexico, I seized the opportunity to focus full-time on my education. Switching my major to Computer Information Systems, I earned my degree from Southwest Missouri State University. It was during this time that I connected with my future employer, launching a career in Information Technology that would span decades.

Answering the Call Again

In the aftermath of 9/11, my sense of duty reignited, and I joined the Army Reserves. As an instructor for the Basic Combat Lifesaver course, I prepared others for deployment. My military journey continued with the Army National Guard, serving in an Aviation unit on natural disaster deployments and two tours in Iraq. After leaving the military in 2011, I sought ways to give back to my community.

A Commitment to Service

I joined the Lebanon Rural Fire Protection District as a First Responder and advanced through the ranks to Assistant Chief. As a Firefighter/EMT, I also shared my knowledge by teaching for the University of Missouri Fire Rescue Training Institute. These experiences deepened my passion for helping others and furthered my commitment to making a difference.

A Dynamic Career in Leadership

In my professional life, I served as IT Manager for a manufacturing company in Lebanon for 15 years before transitioning to Special Projects Manager. In this role, I oversee transformative initiatives, including major building projects, a green energy program, and other high-level responsibilities, reporting directly to the CEO. This position challenges me to blend my technical expertise with leadership and strategic thinking.

A Life of Growth and Service

Whether through military service, community involvement, or my professional career, my journey has been guided by resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to service. I thrive on embracing challenges, fostering growth, and making a positive impact in every role I take on.

Thank you for taking the time to learn a little about me—I look forward to sharing more of my story and continuing to build connections through the experiences that unite us all.