My Career Path
This career path serves as a crucial component in my personal and professional development toward realizing my aspiration of becoming an astronaut. For a detailed overview of my career journey, refer to my LinkedIn profile.
As the founder and executive director of the Global STEM Initiative (GSI), I am deeply committed to bridging educational gaps and empowering underserved communities worldwide through STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. Guided by a vision of equal access to quality learning opportunities, I established GSI to cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and innovation among students in 16 countries. Through strategic initiatives and collaborative partnerships, GSI operates at the intersection of education and social impact, delivering transformative programs that inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and problem solvers. With a focus on hands-on learning, mentorship, and community engagement, GSI equips students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pursue STEM careers and make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond. This commitment to STEM education is deeply intertwined with my aspirations to become an astronaut, as it underscores my dedication to advancing scientific knowledge, fostering innovation, and empowering individuals to explore new frontiers—both on Earth and beyond.
Founder and Executive Director of the Global STEM Initiative
As a pilot in training, I am dedicated to mastering the art and science of aviation, driven by a passion for flight and a desire to soar through the skies. With each lesson and flight hour logged, I am honing my skills in navigation, aircraft control, and aeronautical decision-making, guided by experienced instructors and mentors. Whether practicing takeoffs and landings, navigating through airspace, or studying aviation theory, I approach each aspect of training with diligence and enthusiasm. As I progress towards my goal of becoming a licensed pilot, I embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with learning to command an aircraft, knowing that each milestone brings me closer to fulfilling my dream of taking to the skies with confidence and skill. This training not only prepares me for the responsibilities of piloting aircraft but also lays a solid foundation for future endeavors in space exploration, where precision, adaptability, and technical expertise are paramount. Just as pilots navigate the skies, astronauts navigate the cosmos, making this training an essential step towards achieving my ultimate goal of venturing beyond Earth's atmosphere and exploring the wonders of outer space.
Pilot In Training
As I embark on my journey to become a certified USPA (United States Parachute Association) skydiver, I am immersing myself in a comprehensive training program designed to master the intricacies of freefalling and canopy control. Through rigorous instruction and hands-on experience, I am learning the fundamental techniques of proper body positioning, parachute deployment, emergency protocols, and navigation in the air. Each training session builds upon the last, refining my skills and instilling the discipline necessary for safe and proficient skydiving. Beyond the adrenaline rush, this training holds profound significance for my aspirations in space exploration. Skydiving serves as a simulated environment for zero-gravity experiences, offering invaluable insights into spatial orientation, sensory perception, and mental resilience—traits essential for astronauts navigating the cosmos. My commitment to this training reflects my dedication to honing the skills and mindset required to embark on the extraordinary journey of space exploration.
Skydiver In Training
IIAS (International Institute for Astronautical Sciences) serves as a pioneering platform for individuals aspiring to venture into the realm of space exploration. Through its unique matrixed organization, IIAS integrates subject-matter experts with younger professionals and students, fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation. Unlike traditional academic institutions, IIAS breaks free from rigid hierarchies, empowering all members to contribute to scientific studies and lead initiatives. The immersive educational approach of IIAS ensures that every course equips students with practical skills to participate in professional citizen-science activities. From studying mesospheric clouds to testing prototype space suits in microgravity, IIAS offers a diverse range of opportunities for hands-on experience in space-related research. Aspiring astronauts and space enthusiasts benefit from IIAS's combination of academic instruction and immersive field research, laying a solid foundation for their journey towards space exploration.
PoSSUM Advanced Academy Program Graduate from the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences (IIAS)
As a certified PADI Divemaster, Aquanaut Diver, and Underwater Maintenance specialist, I have undergone rigorous training and gained extensive experience in various facets of diving. My certifications include being a Self-Reliant Diver, Rescue Diver, and Nitrox Diver, reflecting my commitment to safety and proficiency in challenging underwater environments. Notably, I achieved the distinction of being the first American citizen to obtain the prestigious PADI Astronaut Diver Distinctive certification, showcasing my unique dedication to pushing the boundaries of exploration. During a rigorous four-month internship to attain my Divemaster certification, I consistently demonstrated leadership and teaching skills, guiding fellow divers and ensuring safe and enjoyable underwater experiences for all. These experiences have prepared me for the challenges of space exploration, where adaptability, leadership, and proficiency in zero-gravity environments are essential for success.
PADI DiveMaster | Aquanaut | And Astronaut Diver
As a certified tower climber and rescuer, I've undertaken intensive training to perform routine inspections, tests, and repairs on broadcasting towers, often scaling heights of up to 1000 feet. Collaborating with installation crews, I ensure the structural integrity of towers, guy lines, and lighting systems, recognizing the critical importance of safety in this high-risk industry. Equipped with certifications such as Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA 30), Bloodborne Pathogens Awareness, and Construction Rigger and Crane Signal Person, I prioritize safety protocols and emergency preparedness in every climb. Additionally, my expertise extends to emergency medical response, with certifications in MEDIC Emergency First Aid, CPR, and AED G2015. My commitment to safety and proficiency is further demonstrated through certifications in Mobile Elevated Work Platform and Bucket Truck operation, as well as Radio Frequency Safety Awareness, ensuring comprehensive knowledge and readiness in all aspects of tower climbing operations. These skills are directly relevant to astronaut training, particularly in preparation for spacewalks, where meticulous attention to safety procedures and emergency response is paramount for mission success.
Cell Tower Climber and Telecommunications Technician
As a Technical and Service Diver specializing in extreme underwater environments, I honed my skills in port yards and dockside operations, often working in challenging conditions with limited tools and equipment. My underwater work extended for multiple hours, contributing to my proficiency and comfort in diverse work settings. This experience, akin to a construction site environment, offered invaluable lessons across various fields and significantly enhanced my diving capabilities. Such skills are directly transferable to astronaut training, where adaptability and problem-solving in demanding environments are paramount.
In addition to my diving expertise, I also served as a stevedore and port rigger, focusing on yacht transport operations. Stevedores, also known as longshoremen or dockworkers, are integral to the loading and unloading of ships, trucks, trains, or airplanes in port-yards, while port riggers specialize in setting up and repairing rigging at various industrial sites. My specialization in the yacht transport sector provided me with a unique insight into this specialized trade, where precision and safety are paramount. This diverse skill set is directly relevant to astronaut training, where meticulous attention to detail and safety protocols is essential for success in space exploration missions.
Technical and Service Diver, Port Rigger, and Stevedore for Yacht Transport
As a traveling Automotive Mechanic, I honed my skills in performing oil changes, brake and rotor replacements, battery testing and replacement, tire rotating and installation, engine flushes, and general diagnostics for various vehicle components. Operating from a mobile automotive shop, I amassed over 300 driving hours commuting to diverse clients, gaining invaluable experience with diesel engines and specialized tools. Additionally, I transitioned seamlessly into the marine industry, specializing in assembling and installing inflatable boats. As a Marine Mechanic, I conducted diagnostics and tests, repairing boat engines, propellers, masts, hulls, rigging, sails, and navigational equipment, expanding my expertise to encompass both automotive and marine domains. This multidisciplinary background reflects the adaptability and problem-solving skills essential for astronaut training, showcasing my ability to excel in diverse environments and handle complex tasks under pressure, traits crucial for success in space exploration endeavors.
Automotive and Marine Mechanic
As an armed custom protection officer supervisor, I held a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of properties and individuals from potential threats and criminal activities. Working for G4S, a prominent private security organization serving government and private clients, I executed a range of responsibilities, including patrolling various premises, manning security stations, maintaining detailed incident reports, and screening visitors in an armed capacity. With a background in the military, I brought a solid educational foundation to my role. Moreover, I held a diverse set of certifications, including Firearms Proficiency for Statewide Firearms Licenses in calibers 38, 45, and 9MM, as well as Security D License, Statewide Firearms License "G," Unarmed Security Training Program completion, and Concealed Weapon and Firearms License. These certifications not only demonstrated my proficiency in handling firearms but also underscored my commitment to maintaining the highest standards of security protocols. Additionally, my experience as a supervisor in this capacity highlighted my leadership skills and ability to oversee security operations effectively in dynamic environments. This diverse skill set aligns with the rigorous training required for astronauts, demonstrating my preparedness for the challenges of space exploration.
Armed Security Supervisor (Custom Protection Officer)
In my role as a Joint Fire Support Specialist, I honed my skills in gathering intelligence and pinpointing enemy target locations, crucial for determining artillery deployment strategies in mission-based scenarios. Operating communications systems, encoding messages, and coordinating fire support plans were just some of the responsibilities I undertook, often utilizing advanced technologies to ensure precise targeting and mission success.
Transitioning to airborne operations, I became well-versed in the intricacies of airborne combat units, earning the designation of paratrooper after completing over 20 jumps from various aircraft across three different countries, including C-17s, C-130s, CH-47 Chinooks, and UH-60 Black Hawks. My dedication and expertise were recognized with the Italian Parachutist Badge, a foreign award bestowed by the Italian Army.
While serving in the U.S. Army, I volunteered as a Public Affairs Officer for the renowned 173rd Airborne Brigade, assuming multifaceted roles as a Photographer, Videographer, Graphic Designer, and Journalist. Collaborating closely with domestic and foreign media outlets, I documented U.S. and NATO operations throughout Europe, ensuring transparent and compelling communication on various policies, initiatives, and international developments. Additionally, my expertise extended to executing communication plans that effectively shaped the Army's narrative, all while serving as a Combat Camera volunteer alongside my primary Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).
Furthermore, I underwent rigorous coalition training with 22 NATO allied armies across six different countries, gaining invaluable international experience during my tenure with the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team. This diverse training background equipped me with a unique perspective and skill set, making me a seasoned professional capable of navigating complex multinational environments with ease and efficiency.