ABOUT ME
All my life I have loved three things: writing, airplanes and chess.
I began writing in the desert as a young U.S. Marine. The Iraq War had just begun. Through the war I carried notebooks in my rucksack. To this day, I still do.
Iraq shaped my life in profound ways. The experience fueled my desire to understand people. I try to contribute to their well-being. My writing grew from those tough, formative years.
I was born to fly. I love the freedom of being in the air. After the military I pursued a career in aviation. I was fortunate to resume government service to help people traverse the skies safely. Best of all, these days I am finally getting my private pilot license.
Ten years after my war experience, I started a chess club in my city. This act of service led to new opportunities to inspire young people through STEM outreach.
I embrace a singular passion for learning that has no limits.
Solving problems for a safer world and inspiring others is most important to me.

Philosophy
I connect people — using story and idea as the prime mover for change.
Passion
I thrive on discovering and sharing insights that change lives.
Origin
I am an American from a strong family with history of commitment to nation and community. As a global citizen, I carry their torch of service.
ACCOLADES
- United States Marine Corps Veteran
- Founder and President – Shenandoah Valley Chess Club
- STEM Flights – Board of Director (2021)
- Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum – Board of Director (2017-2020)
- Various nonprofit advocacy roles for education
- Polymath
- STEM education advocate
- Machine learning expert
- Published in literary and trade journals