1. What is your hometown? Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Wichita, Kansas. I graduated from Northwest High School in 2008. I then attended Wichita State University where I graduated in December 2013. I enlisted in the Air Force Reserve in August 2012.
2. What is your civilian job? Are you an ART, ARG or TR)?
I am currently on an active guard reserve (AGR) tour as the 931st Air Refueling Wing resiliency first sergeant. In my civilian capacity I own and operate a handyman business focusing on small repairs and renovation projects.
3. Why did you join the 931st ARW?
I met my wife during my freshman year of high school and we started a family just after graduating. With all that happening I quickly learned having more options in terms of pay and benefits was important. I wanted to serve my country while als adding to my resume to become a police officer for the City of Wichita. That drove me to enlist. It was honestly one of the best decisions I could have made at that time in my life and I wouldn’t change a thing.
4. What are your goals (i.e. personal, school)?
Two goals I have for this year are to take a family vacation, while ensuring I carve out some intentional time away from work, and then work toward becoming more knowledgeable on investing for retirement. My spouse and I have four boys who are active in many sports so creating some family time and memories is becoming more important to me.
5. What are your hobbies?
My main hobby during the summer months is coaching my boys in baseball, football and any other sport they choose to participate in. Beyond that, I love being at home with my family and doing woodworking projects.
6. How do you contribute to the 931st mission?
My role as the resiliency integrator is specifically to care for members of the Wing in whatever capacity they need. I act as a link between Airmen and helping agencies and provide immediate support in emergent mental health or personal crises. We have a fantastic group of first sergeants and Additional Duty Shirts within the Wing.
7. What's your favorite part of the mission?
I enjoy dealing with and helping people. I love doing whatever I can to help anyone work through life issues or talking and getting to know them. We have a fantastic group of first sergeants and additional duty shirts within the wing and I enjoy connecting with them to create a better environment for our Airmen. My main hope is that if someone has an issue, whatever it may be, they feel comfortable reaching out to their first sergeant, leadership or me for assistance.