I began my career in the Army National Guard as an aircraft powertrain mechanic, eventually advancing to become an allied trades specialist, welder/fabricator, and attaining the rank of Sergeant. My journey with metalwork began at the Army Aviation Support Facility of Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania, where I developed a passion for metalworking after completing Multiple Non-destructive Inspection Courses. Educationally, I attended Berks Career & Technology Center, where I honed my skills and earned several qualifications, including AWS D1.6 1G SS GTAW, AWS D1.1 3G MS FCAW, AWS D1.1 & AWS D1.5 3G MS SMAW, and ASME Section 9 6G MS GTAW. I also obtained an AWS D17.1 Class A aerospace welding certification. Following my military service, I gained valuable experience working across various fabrication sectors, including cryogenics, food-grade, pharmaceutical, aerospace, and general welding applications in both government and private sectors.