MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --
1. What is your official job title?
I am the 931st Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) Engineering Flight commander.
2. What is your hometown? Where did you grow up?
I was born in Charlotte, North Carolina, and I grew up in Chesapeake, Virginia.
3. What is your civilian job?
I am a civil engineer (CE) for Kimley-Horn working predominantly with private developers on commercial, retail, industrial, and mixed-use sites serving the Kansas City and Jacksonville, Florida, markets. I am also a traditional reservist (TR) who was commissioned in September 2021 through Officer Training School (OTS).
4. Why did you join the 931st ARW?
I joined the 931st Air Refueling Wing (ARW) after moving to the Kansas City area from Florida last summer. Serving in the Reserves is a part of my life and I take great pride in being able to serve closer to home. This was made feasible by joining the 931st ARW. After previously working as a CE officer at Duke Field in Florida, joining the Prime BEEF (Base Engineer Emergency Force) unit here at the 931st ARW was a perfect fit and has welcomed me with open arms. Ironically enough, my father-in-law spent a decent amount of his career at McConnell so this opportunity was a neat moment to go where he had many experiences.
5. What are your goals?
My goals as a CE officer in the 931st CES include being available to Airmen as a resource. I am humble enough to continue to learn from those who have established a foundation filled with Air Force experience and pride. On a personal note, I would like to compete in a powerlifting competition by the end of the year, with the goal of finishing in the 1000-lb club at a competition level (squat, deadlift and bench).
6. What are your hobbies?
My hobbies include spending time with my wife and daughter, powerlifting in our home gym, hiking, biking and anything outdoors. I grew up playing sports so I really enjoy playing in recreation leagues and following college sports (all things Florida Gators), and professional baseball and football.
7. How do you contribute to the 931st mission?
I contribute to the 931st mission by maintaining my readiness as a TR and being available when the mission requires. As a TR, readiness is imperative so being well-versed in the responsibilities of our squadron and fellow Airmen is the ultimate focus in executing the 931st mission.
8. What's your favorite part of the mission?
My favorite part of the mission involves the connection to the KC-46A Pegasus platform and playing a pivotal role in the support necessary to see the mission to fruition. Understanding the complexities of the 931st Operations Group is vital and serving in the 931st CES allows our troops to ensure the necessary components from a support group perspective are integrated. Our Squadron being able to articulate the "why" is important because it provides a sense of connection that is important to the overall success of the 931st ARW.