Background

I grew up in Nebraska and received my bachelors degree in German and Spanish from West Point. Following graduation, I was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the Infantry and attended Ranger and Airborne schools. My first four years I was stationed in Germany where I held a number of leadership and staff positions. Highlights of that time include deployments to Kosovo and Iraq, as well as marrying my wife Elke, who grew up in Berlin. I then spent two years at Ft Bragg, NC and where commanded a company of soldiers in Baghdad in 2007.

Career Pursuits

Following graduation, I initially intend to pursue a marketing position. In all of my deployments to for former Yugoslavia and the Middle East, I often found that disagreements between the local populace and security forces were due to general lack of information from both parties. I was particularly interested in how basic services like energy, water and food availability dramatically changed the mood of the people. I eventually hope to work for a multinational company that has the ability to inform people and positively affect such essential services to a population.

Interest and Hobbies

I enjoy staying fit and began competing in triathlons in 2006. I also enjoy golf and riding my motorcycle with my wife. Other interests include reading, history, and travel.