What in your life drew you to your current field of study?
I have always had an interest in the ocean and was a scuba diver in high school. I spent my freshman year at Texas A&M University at College Station as an Oceanography major. I found out about the Texas A&M Maritime Academy from my college roommate, who went on the summer cruise after he graduated from high school. Following this interaction, I did some investigation into the Marine Transportation degree program and found that there was a balance of business, economics, science, and nautical and naval science courses in the curriculum which I liked. Additionally, when pursing this program a student could graduate with a degree from Texas A&M University while obtaining a U.S. Merchant Marine Unlimited Tonnage Third Mate Upon Oceans license and a commission as an Ensign in the U.S. Naval Reserve. This would provide me with a lot of career options after graduation and beyond.
What do you hope your students gain from studying or working with you?
Students will be provided with a faculty member that has a rich depth of experience in all facets of the marine industry: chartering and brokerage, finance, economics, vessel acquisition, shipboard operations, port operations, and project management. My students will also have access to guest speakers from industry, including government and commercial sectors.
What are you passionate about in your personal life?
I am passionate about teaching young people about the maritime industry. I also enjoy learning about history and the financial markets. I have taught several financial classes at church to help people in improving their personal finances.
