I earned my first pilot certificate in 1996 and have been flying ever since. In addition to nearly 25 years of flying experience, I have logged over 2,000 hours in all models of PA46 (both piston and turbine). I specialize transition training for technically-advanced aircraft (TAA). In addition to the PA46 line of aircraft, I am one of a small number of instructors worldwide who provide initial and transition training in the ICON A5 amphibious light sport.
I actively volunteer in aviation and have served on the board of Lifeline Pilots, a volunteer pilot organization, since 2012.
Outside of aviation, I earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in Computer Science. I spent nearly 20 years in the software industry with companies such as Cargill, Microsoft, and 3M, where I managed research and development labs. I am listed as an author on numerous academic publications, as an inventor on several US patents, and have consulted as a subject matter expert for National Science Foundation (NSF) grants funding the development of advanced avionics.
I have taught computer science-related topics at the University of Minnesota nearly every semester since 1996, where I've earned numerous awards for teaching and service from undergraduate students, graduate students, and the school administration.