About Military Service
1. Can you share a bit about your military background?
I served five years in the U.S. Marines as a sergeant (E-5) and was part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Joining the military was motivated by a few things—the GI Bill for college, the chance to stay on the right track, and the challenge of seeing how I’d measure up against the best.
2. What were some of the key lessons you took away from your time in the military?
First, I learned that, despite all our differences, we’re all human. We miss family, want to go home, and are willing to go to great lengths for the people we love. I also gained a sense of urgency—moving with speed and intensity—and the mantra of “adapt and overcome” became essential.
3. Do you have a particular moment or experience from your service that really stands out for you?
One thing that stands out is the ability to spot a group of Marines in a crowd, even “out in town.” Despite their very different backgrounds, you’d always see a group of people with this intense bond, which felt like family.
Transitioning to Civilian Life and Real Estate Development
4. What was the transition like from the military to the field of real estate development?
In both fields, if you want to accomplish the mission, it helps if you’re cross-trained and capable of doing any part of the job. That flexibility really transfers over to real estate development.
5. How did your military experience shape your approach to problem-solving and teamwork at TCSD?
Adapt and overcome—this mentality keeps me resourceful and solutions-focused, which is key when leading projects at TCSD.
6. What motivated you to join the team at TCSD, and how does the mission here resonate with you?
What drew me in was the mission to create opportunities for kids in under-resourced neighborhoods. TCSD’s work levels the playing field for those kids, and I’m always willing to jump in for underdogs—especially when it comes to kids.
Applying Military Skills to TCSD Projects
7. Are there specific skills from your military training that you feel have been especially helpful in your role as a Project Director?
Leadership training is big, along with cross-training—having the skills to do everyone’s job if needed. I also carry the “fix it on the march” mindset, where you make adjustments as you go and keep moving forward.
8. How has your perspective as a veteran influenced the way you approach projects that serve under-resourced communities?
It’s about doing the right thing and making sure it’s done right. I believe in fighting for those who can’t fight for themselves and leaving things better than we found them.
9. What does “mission focus” mean to you in the context of TCSD’s work, especially as you work to develop schools in underserved areas?
It’s about balancing out the inequalities in education. When kids have access to better schools, it leads to better outcomes for them, their families, and ultimately strengthens the whole community.
Advice and Insights
10. What advice would you give other veterans considering a career in nonprofit work or real estate development?
Learn to be adaptable, and don’t be afraid to bring your unique skills to the table. The mission-focused approach will resonate, especially in nonprofit work.
11. How can organizations better support veterans in their transition to civilian roles, especially in fields like real estate development?
Provide training on industry specifics but also focus on mentorship and team-building. Veterans bring valuable skills, and with a little guidance, they can be real assets.
12. Lastly, on this Veteran’s Day, what message would you like to share with fellow veterans or those currently serving?
Thank you for stepping up to defend and protect our Constitution. And enjoy those well-deserved freebies and free meals!
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