I have been an Adjunct Instructor at Cabrillo since 1992. I graduated from UCSC in 1977 with degrees in Psychology and Environmental Studies and began Cabrillo's Fire Technology program in 1980. I became an EMT, FFI and a reserve firefighter at Watsonville Fire Department. I then worked full-time with South County Fire Authority in San Mateo County from 1981 to 1983 and was hired by San Jose Fire Department (SJFD) in 1983. I worked Engine and Truck companies as a Firefighter, Fire Engineer and Captain; mostly downtown and the Eastside of San Jose. My last assignments were as Captain on the Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) company at Station 16, acting Battalion Chief and the Public Information Officer (PIO). During the course of my career I became a certified Fire Officer, a Hazardous Material Specialist, a Technical Rescue Technician, a general building contractor and registered environmental assessor. I retired after 28 years of service.

In 2017, PennWell published the second edition of my book, "Knowing Your Buildings: A Firefighter's Reference Guide" (1st edition in 2009 by Cengage Learning). I have had articles in Fire Nuggets, Fire Chief and Fire Engineering magazines in recent years. I live in Santa Cruz and am married with two adult daughters who are also teachers. I enjoy running, biking, paddling, surfing, climbing, all snow sports and have made outside work and exercise a regular part of my life. The fire service has been a great career for me and hope that I may be of help to you in your endeavors.