Growing up on a dairy farm on the outskirts of Lynden, I know what hard work is and I know the meaning of common sense. My family saw lean times and tight budgets, but we learned to live within our means. It’s time for state government to live under these same principles.
After high school, I went on to attend and graduate from Bellingham Technical College. As an electronics tech I was trained in the principles of trouble shooting, a skill that is evidently missing in Olympia today. We have plenty of politicians who can talk about a problem; what we need are leaders who can recognize a problem and determine the best solution. In so many cases we know what the problems are and how to solve them. We need the leadership and the courage to enact those solutions for the betterment of the citizens of this state.
From working for one of the largest companies in the world, Intel, to a regional airline, Horizon Air, to starting my own construction company, I’ve seen the challenges that businesses, large and small, face in Washington. I have learned and grown, as well, from my opportunities to study abroad in Europe and travel on mission trips to Africa, Mexico and Haiti. These experiences broadened my perspective on life, work, and our top priorities.
We all need to find our niche where we can give back and build a stronger world. I am currently involved with Starfish Ministries, a local organization providing help to the people of Haiti. Over the past three years I have been to Haiti six times drilling wells in impoverished communities to bring them fresh, clean water. In my off hours I stay active in my church, play violin at events around the county and am actively involved in various professional groups including Toastmasters and Whatcom Young Professionals.
