Born and raised a native Texan, my journey to today began with humbling roots all throughout Texas until I moved to Fort Ashby, West Virginia my freshman year of high school. Along the way, my path was shaped by my unwavering determination to embrace opportunities and confront new challenges, ultimately leading me to a life beyond what I could have imagined.
My upbringing was heavily influenced by my father, a welder by trade but also a DIY handyman who imparted invaluable skills such as woodworking, welding, house repairs, hunting and sports. In 1999, I graduated from Frankfort High School, West Virginia with honors, showcasing academic excellence through memberships in the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta, a math honors society. In addition to academic success, I was also an all-state track and cross-country athlete all four years of high school.
After graduation, I enrolled at Texas A&M Galveston to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Despite my initial aspirations, I did not complete my engineering degree, but rather, I found myself venturing into the oil and gas industry.
My career in the oil industry continued until 2015 when I faced the challenges of economic downturns that inevitably led to layoffs. It was during this time that my life took a significant and unexpected turn. I was introduced to the world of Construction Materials Testing (CMT) by Joseph "Joe" Lapsley, a close friend of my father and a Project Manager at Ninyo & Moore.
Under the tutelage of Joe Lapsley, I embarked on a journey of learning and growth in the field of construction materials testing. I gained hands-on experience in various aspects of the testing laboratory, including soil studies/classifications, paving, underground utility placement, concrete testing and more. To this day, I remain deeply grateful to Joe for his guidance and the opportunities he provided. However, after more than three years at Ninyo & Moore, I sought out for something new.
I accepted a position at EHRA Engineering in 2019, thanks to the recommendation of my fellow colleague, Mark Bradford. Through my experience at EHRA, I have expanded my skill set with knowledge of permitting and acceptance processes, payment procedures, change orders and effective communication with contractors.
I developed a manner of communication between contractors that not only effectively drives timely completion but also instills confidence and trust in our professional partnership. My contractors understand that if there is an issue or question that may arise, I am only a phone call away and will do my best to get an answer and solution to them immediately to keep the project moving. I have remained focused and dedicated to my job and watched myself become a valuable resource in ensuring projects proceed smoothly and efficiently.
Just as my professional journey has transformed over the years, so too has my personal life. I married my best friend of 20 years, Katherine Gates, last year and gained two bonus daughters, Haley and Audrey, in addition to my son, Kylan. I hold great appreciation that my personal life has continued to flourish alongside my professional growth and development.
In late 2022, I was presented with a remarkable opportunity to serve as a Construction Project Manager (CPM), entrusted with overseeing my first project from start to finish—Sundance Cove. Since then, I have successfully managed multiple sections, including a lift station, water plant, wastewater plant and clearing and detention work. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with both Meritage Homes and Perry Senn and working hard to achieve their project goals. I look forward to continuing working with them and preparing for all upcoming projects in the pipeline.
I like to believe that my journey is a testament to the power of determination, continuous learning and seizing opportunities. As I look ahead to future projects, I envision bringing my family through the fully developed communities, proudly stating, "I did that. From forest to family homes, I did that." My hope is that my story serves as an inspiration to all aspiring professionals and showcases the incredible heights one can achieve through resilience and dedication.
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