My Leadership Philosophy
Leadership sets the standard through action every day. It begins with personal accountability, integrity, relentless effort, and clear direction. The standard demanded of others must first be lived by the leader.
True leadership directs people and resources to deliver maximum results. It places the team and the mission above individual recognition and requires the willingness to step up for those being led. A real leader sets a clear path, welcomes different perspectives, and refuses mediocrity. Clear communication, attentive listening, decisive decisions, and forward movement are essential. When the work must be done, relentless preparation and disciplined execution drive results.
People are the most important asset in any organization. Leadership is service first: listening, understanding, and staying grounded in humility. The team and the mission come first.
Leadership means protecting, developing, and holding the team to a high standard while remaining ready under pressure. It operates with strong core principles, technical excellence, and deep commitment to both the mission and the people. Accountability is non-negotiable. Whether in the U.S. Navy, the private sector, or the community, leadership focuses on ownership, full effort, faithful stewardship, and getting the job done right every time.
Professional Leadership & Education
I currently serve as Sales & Operations Manager for my family’s optical practice, Minnesota Optical (Pearle Vision) in Elk River. I oversee daily operations, manage financial performance, and lead teams in delivering excellent patient care.
I focus on building strong, high‑performing teams by investing in people, fostering a positive work environment, and emphasizing clear communication and continuous improvement. Under this approach, our locations have consistently ranked among the Top 5 Pearle Vision stores nationwide and maintained a 4.8‑star Google rating.
I am committed to lifelong learning and effective public service. I hold a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership from the University of Charleston (with honors) and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Coaching from the University of Minnesota Duluth. I am currently enrolled in the Executive MBA program at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management. This background has prepared me to bring strategic, accountable leadership to the role of Sherburne County Auditor.
United States Navy Service
I proudly served in the United States Navy as an Aviation Electronics Technician and Aircraft Crew Lead with Patrol Squadron VP-8. In this role, I led teams of over 125 personnel, maintained advanced P-8A Poseidon aircraft systems, and was responsible for operational readiness during deployments in support of the Global War on Terrorism.
I held a Top Secret/SCI security clearance and earned multiple qualifications, including CDI (Collateral Duty Inspector), Plane Captain, and Command Fitness Leader. I am also a graduate of the rigorous Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Dive School in Panama City Beach, Florida.
Throughout my service, I developed strong expertise in technical operations, leadership under pressure, and operational risk management. I was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal for my dedication and performance.
My military experience instilled in me a deep commitment to discipline, accountability, and mission-focused leadership values I continue to carry into my professional and public service today.
A Proud Minnesota Native
I am a Minnesota native and proven leader running for Sherburne County Auditor. Raised in Robbinsdale, I graduated from Robbinsdale Cooper High School as a three-sport athlete before earning a football scholarship to the University of Minnesota Duluth.
While at UMD, I was a member of the 2008 NCAA Division II National Championship team. These experiences taught me the values of teamwork, discipline, resilience, and performing at a high level under pressure — qualities that continue to guide my leadership today.
I am committed to bringing accountability, transparency, and efficient government to Sherburne County, rooted in the same work ethic and team-first mentality that shaped me growing up in Minnesota.
Community Involvement
I am committed to serving others both locally and abroad. I volunteered with OneSight Vision Clinic in Brazil, where I helped provide eye care screening, and eyewear to more than 3,000 patients in underserved communities. I am a USA Hockey Certified Coach and have served as a Hockey Tryout Evaluator for the Elk River Youth Hockey Association. I have also coached youth baseball, including VFW teams, and have volunteered as an umpire for the Robbinsdale Wood Bat Tournament.
As a longtime resident of Elk River, I am deeply rooted in Sherburne County. I have supported local efforts to preserve Minnesota’s heritage, including backing the effort to fly the traditional 1983 Minnesota State Flag in Elk River.
I believe in showing up, giving back, and making a positive impact in the community I call home.
Personal Life
I have a deep appreciation for the outdoors and the Minnesota way of life. I am an avid hunter and fisherman who enjoys spending time in the woods and on the water. A longtime member of the Elk River Sportsman’s Club since 2016, I regularly hunt whitetail deer, including trips near the Brainerd Lakes area.
I am also a dedicated angler and a multiple-time champion of the Round Lake Invitational Bowfin Tournament. In the winter, I love embracing the Minnesota season by ice fishing and playing hockey.
Whether I’m in the woods, on the ice, or on the water, I value the traditions, camaraderie, and connection to nature that come with Minnesota’s outdoor lifestyle.