I'm far more than just a software engineer
From my humble beginnings to standing on mountains and everything in between. I am always trying to live to my fullest and show passion in everything I do. Here are just a couple of snippets of my life to help paint you a bigger picture of just who I am.
It all started with living in a van
Thats right! I started my tech career while living in a van and traveling the country for rock climbing. I guess "starting my tech career" is a loose term.
While traveling and climbing I started a blog to document my journey. It was the creation of this blog that ignited my passion for the web and overall pushed me to end a 13+ year career with the Navy and follow my dreams.
During my last year in the Navy, I became the board member (Director of Media) for a local American Alpine Club chapter and thus, my first professional gig along my tech journey.
Problem solving on the wall
As I mentioned previously, rock climbing has been a major part of my life. The art of climbing a mountain is the perfect combination of preparation, dedication, and critical problem-solving.
Over the course of my "climbing career," I have:
Climbed 1000+ ft cliffs in multiple countries
Received climbing grants and sponsorships for expeditions
Pushed myself to the limit both mentally and physically
I love to talk about climbing as much as I do coding, so please, don't hesitate to reach out.
From mountain tops to the ocean
Surfing was the primary reason that I moved to San Diego in 2010 and though I don't paddle out as much as I would like to, (live 8 miles from the beach now) it still has a strong hold over me.
No, I haven't surfed around the world as I have with climbing, but I did have a board in my van (it's a small board) and was able to chase waves up and down the coast.
Through surfing, I have learned dedication and how to push myself. I have also learned to appreciate the calm and take advantage of tranquility. Even on the best days in the water, you still end up just floating around for a while.
Just being kinda goofy
Life is more than just writing code and extreme sports. You need to know when to take it easy and just be a little goofy!
I love to smile and I love to make others smile. Whether this is generating some laughs from friends and co-workers or just setting my own frame of mind. It's a rare day that you don't see a big grin on my face.
Be silly. Be honest. Be Kind.
—Ralph Waldo Emerson
Loving husband and dog dad
Last and far from least I am the husband to an extremely amazing, motivating partner and father to the world's cutest little nugget.
Lauren has been my partner since 2017 and I couldn't imagine being where I am now without her. We are an amazing team and, together, an unstoppable force. We have one small boy, Achilles Maximus the long-haired dachshund. He's perfect. Trust me.
