Growing up I had the pleasure to spend many summers in Florida were I developed an appreciation for boating Florida's waterways. These positive experiences influenced my decision to attend the United States Merchant Marine Academy. While at the Academy, I had the opportunity to go to sea on various ocean going vessels.

After passing the USCG license exam and graduating from the Academy , I traveled to the nearest union hall and took a job working as a marine engineer on an ocean going vessel. I spent a few years working on the water before I pursued a law degree with the goal of furthering my maritime career ashore. Upon graduating and passing the bar, I started practicing Maritime and Admiralty Law at a Florida law firm. Eventually I transitioned my practice to a national firm to gain experience in additional areas of law.

During this time, I gained additional valuable maritime industry experience serving as a Sealift Officer in the US Navy Reserve. I was honorably discharged in August 2013.