Born amidst the serene landscapes of Northwest Arkansas (15 minutes from the Walmart Home Office), my journey began in a world far removed from the bustling tech hubs and cybersecurity frontlines that would later define my career. As a child, my family relocated across the state-line into rural Oklahoma – where I embraced the values and resilience of the Midwest. These years in Oklahoma shaped my perspectives and aspirations, instilling in me a profound appreciation for community and determination. Eventually, my path led me to enlist in the United States Air Force, a decision that not only honed my skills in cybersecurity and communications but also deepened my understanding of teamwork and leadership.

Through my service, I found a new home in Omaha, Nebraska. Here, amidst the rolling plains and vibrant city life, I’ve planted my roots. Omaha offers a unique blend of small-town charm and growing technological opportunities, a perfect match for my background and ambitions. This city, with its friendly communities and innovative spirit, has become my chosen home, a place where I continue to nurture my midwestern heritage while pushing the boundaries of technology and cybersecurity.

My fascination with technology began in an era when the symphony of Dial-Up Internet was the gateway to the digital world. I’ve been fortunate to  witness the breathtaking evolution of technology, a journey that started with my very first Compaq desktop. This machine, a testament to the early days of personal computing, was powered by an Intel Pentium (1) processor and ran on the pioneering Windows 95 operating system. This wasn’t just a computer; it was my window to an expanding universe of digital possibilities. Over the years, I’ve navigated through every iteration of Windows, adapting and learning with each new version, witnessing firsthand the transformation of user interfaces and functionalities that these systems brought.

In the summer of 2008, my technological journey took a significant turn with the introduction of my first Apple product. This experience was more than just a shift in brand preference; it was a paradigm shift in how I interacted with technology. The seamless integration, intuitive design, and robust performance of Apple’s ecosystem captivated me entirely. Since 2016, I’ve fully embraced the Apple universe, immersing myself in its innovative environment. The decision to switch was driven by a pursuit for excellence in usability and efficiency, hallmarks of Apple’s technology. The integration of their devices into my personal and professional life has been transformative, offering an unparalleled experience that resonates with my deep-rooted passion for cutting-edge technology. For me, this isn’t just a preference, but a commitment to a platform that continually redefines the landscape of modern computing.

In the rich tapestry of life, my interests weave a colorful and diverse pattern. While I find a growing appreciation for life’s simpler pleasures, my heart often takes me back to the passions that have shaped my journey. From the melodious keys of the piano to the soulful notes of the clarinet and the harmonious strings of the violin, music has always been a sanctuary for me. It’s in these moments, with instruments in hand, that I connect with a universal language that transcends words. I’ve even spent some time as a Piano Instructor!

My fascination doesn’t stop at music. As a tech enthusiast, I find joy in delving into various technology projects. These ventures are not just hobbies; they are explorations into the ever-evolving world of technology, where I constantly challenge myself to learn and innovate.

Photography is another realm where I unleash my creativity, capturing moments and perspectives that tell unspoken stories through the lens. Each photograph is a testament to my journey, a frozen slice of time that speaks volumes.

Beyond these, I delve into the world of cinematography, crafting short films that allow me to narrate stories in a dynamic and impactful way. These films are not just visual treats but are imbued with narratives that resonate with viewers, reflecting my vision and creativity.

For those interested in exploring these facets of my life, my work is showcased online. I was also featured in an Air Force Network’s Spotlight for this as well!

You can find the essence of my musical endeavors, technological explorations, photographic journeys, and cinematic creations on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Behance. Each platform serves as a digital gallery, displaying the various dimensions of my passions. Links to my diverse portfolios are conveniently located at the bottom of this page, inviting you to join me in this journey of exploration and creativity.

My vision of the ultimate dream job transcends the conventional definitions of a career. At its core, my aspiration is to achieve a level of financial independence that redefines freedom – a world where purchasing a car is as effortless and thought-free as picking up a Coke from the store. This pursuit isn’t just about wealth; it’s about the autonomy and opportunities that financial freedom can unlock.

As a child, my eyes were set on the stars – I dreamed of being an astronaut, exploring the vastness of space, perhaps even setting foot on Mars. That dream, while distant, still kindles a sense of wonder in me. There was also a time when the creative process of designing and building as an architect captivated my imagination. Can you imagine creating spaces that blend art, science, and sustainability? Then, as technology became an integral part of my life, I envisioned myself as a computer technician, a role that has evolved with my growing understanding of technology’s impact on our future.

Today, my dream has crystallized into something that perfectly aligns with my skills and passions: becoming the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of a Fortune-500 company. This role is not just a job; it’s a mission to safeguard the digital frontier. It’s about leading a team of talented individuals to protect critical customer data and company finances, a responsibility that combines strategic thinking, technological prowess, and an unyielding commitment to security and innovation. My personality, defined by the INTJ-T archetype, makes me a natural fit for this role – I am an architect of systems, strategies, and solutions. In this dream role, I envision leveraging my expertise to not only defend against the digital threats of today but also to help shape the technological landscapes of tomorrow.

My foray into the realm of financial markets began in 2017, marking the start of a journey that would see me navigate the complex and often tumultuous world of stock trading. Initially, I dipped my toes in the waters of the stock market, specifically focusing on penny stocks. This was more than just an investment; it was my training ground, where I started to build a foundational understanding of market dynamics and trading strategies.

As my confidence and expertise grew, I embraced the challenge of more sophisticated trading forms in 2018. I ventured into the realms of Equity Options, Futures, and Currency Pairs on Forex, expanding my portfolio and trading skills. This phase of my trading journey was characterized by both profits and losses, each experience adding a valuable layer of wisdom and insight. Trading, for me, has always been more than a financial venture; it’s a continuous learning process, where the discipline to adhere to my own rules and the ability to mitigate losses early are as crucial as the trades themselves.

A significant milestone in my trading journey was achieved in January 2021 when I met my first major financial goal. However, this high point was accompanied by a stark reminder of the market’s unpredictability. In the midst of a move and a vacation, without my usual safeguards in place, I encountered a costly error, a learning experience that profoundly influenced my approach to trading. Since this incident, I’ve taken a step back to reevaluate and refine my strategies, though my passion for trading remains undiminished. I eagerly anticipate the day when I can return to the daily trading grind, armed with the lessons learned and a renewed sense of purpose, ready to tackle the markets with a more seasoned, strategic approach.

In the early chapters of my technological journey, I harbored a healthy skepticism towards Apple. Their products, with their distinctive proprietary technology and premium pricing, seemed to me more like a luxury than a necessity. This view, however, began to shift in 2007, a pivotal year marked by the release of Apple’s groundbreaking first iPhone. This device wasn’t just a phone; it was a symbol of innovation and a beacon of what technology could become. It was this revelation that led me to reconsider the value Apple brought to the table in the tech world.

My personal Apple odyssey began in 2008 with the acquisition of the iPhone 3G, a device that opened new vistas of connectivity and functionality. This was more than an upgrade; it was a whole new way of interacting with technology. The journey continued in 2012 when I welcomed the iPad 3rd Generation into my life, a step that further cemented my integration into the Apple ecosystem.

Since then, my commitment to Apple has only deepened. My arsenal now includes a MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, iPhone, and even a Hackintosh, complemented by AppleTVs and whole home audio powered by an arsenal of HomePods. Each device, a testament to Apple’s unparalleled approach to design and user experience. The seamless interoperability of these devices, the hallmark of Apple’s ecosystem, offers a coherence and convenience that is unparalleled. The privacy-centric operating systems strike a perfect balance between functionality and security, catering to a spectrum of users from novices to seasoned system administrators. The beauty of this ecosystem lies in its ability to adapt to diverse needs and skill levels without the necessity to switch between different devices.

In embracing Apple, I have found a synergy between my professional expertise and personal preferences. The simplicity, elegance, and power of Apple’s technology have not only enhanced my productivity but also enriched my everyday life, reaffirming my belief in their vision and innovation.