1. What inspired you to pursue structural engineering?

Legos, Lincoln Logs and NASA, not necessarily in that order. My childhood had many hours “wasted” building, taking apart, and re-building Legos and Lincoln logs – I think that’s where my love of architecture and buildings in general stems from. I also fell in love with space as a kid and went to Space Camp… twice!

I enrolled at Purdue University chasing the dream of becoming an engineer working for NASA in some capacity. Along the way, I decided to keep an eye on the stars, but embraced structural (building) design by transferring over into the civil department. Fast forward a number of years and here we are!

2. What are your hobbies?

I started to teach myself computer programming with I was in fifth grade and have kept it up ever since. I was the weird, quiet kid who went to computer camp rather than summer camp. I tinker with computers and electronics a lot. I feel I can pretty confidently claim to be the biggest nerd in the room.

3. What would you do with $1 million?

Buy something REALLY amazing and invest the rest to rake in that sweet, sweet compound interest.

4. Most prized possession/what you couldn’t live without (outside of family and friends).

My morning coffee. You might not like me without it.

5. Favorite thing to do off the clock.

I like to run and hike as often as I can. I have been doing CrossFit for almost four years – feel free to poke fun, I can take it! I love spending time with my wife, Rachel, and son, Everett, doing whatever – errands, fairs, park, I just like spending time with them.

6. Where are you from?

I grew up in Dayton, Ohio, but just moved back to Ohio after ten years in Dallas, Texas. I tried my best to convince folks that Cincinnati-style chili is amazing. Texans disagree. Strongly.

7. Why you chose to work/live in Cincinnati.

To be close to family and raise our kid(s) amongst them. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and WOW is that correct. It’s great to be back with our village.

8. Quote to live by.

“Keep a stiff upper lip, but a song in your heart.” – My grandfather

9. What is a skill that you don’t have, but wish you did?

Ask my wife – I wish I could dance! I played many different instruments for years, but my body just does NOT have rhythm or flexibility or… something. I’m bad (not in the Michael Jackson way, either)!

10. What would you sing at karaoke?

You REALLY don’t want to hear me sing. Nope.