I am a seasoned UAS External Pilot operating at an FAA-designated UAS Test Site, with over 20 years of experience in the aviation industry. My journey began at the age of nine, when my father introduced me to RC aircraft—a formative experience that sparked a lifelong passion for flight.
Driven by that early inspiration, I pursued formal aviation training and earned my Private Pilot Certificate, followed by Commercial, Instrument, and Multi-Engine ratings. Each step deepened my commitment to the field and broadened my capabilities as a pilot.
My career in unmanned aviation has taken me across the globe, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, where I served as a UAS contract pilot in support of military operations. These missions demanded precision, resilience, and a deep understanding of aerial systems—skills I continue to apply in my current role at a designated test site.
In 2020, I embarked on a personal milestone: building my own aircraft. After five years of meticulous work, I completed the project in 2025 and conducted its maiden flight on Memorial Day—a moment of profound pride and reflection. Though my father passed before its completion, his influence remains the cornerstone of my aviation journey. His mentorship and encouragement continue to guide me, and I owe my love of aviation to him.
As a proud member of the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA), I recognize the pivotal role that model aviation has played in shaping my career. From RC planes to full-scale aircraft and UAS operations, my path reflects a deep-rooted passion for flight and a commitment to advancing the future of aviation.
