I believe in pursuing a wide variety of experiences to better understand both the world around us and ourselves. That philosophy has been shaped by my diverse journey as an Eagle Scout, enlisted Marine, volunteer and wildland firefighter, recycling worker, nonprofit director, substitute teacher, Appalachian Trail thru-hiker, researcher, and university instructor.

Along the way, I developed a deep appreciation for the natural world, which inspired me to pursue a career dedicated to learning about, teaching, and researching Earth's ecosystems.

• Ph.D. Geography - University of California, Santa Barbara (2025)
• B.A. Geography, B.A. Geology - Colgate University (2016)

• Computer Systems Specialist - United States Marine Corps
• Firefighter/EMT - Hamilton Fire Department
• Research Assistant - Colgate University
• Wildland Firefighter - Bureau of Land Management
• Zero Waste Coordinator - ReSource Central
• Project Manager and Treasurer - Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council
• Instructor - University of California, Santa Barbara
• Fire Research Coordinator - The Nature Conservancy

I work to understand the many different factors contributing to our current wildfire problem. This interdisciplinary work involves multiple subjects, including atmospheric science, fire ecology, combustion, and hazard preparedness, as well as various methods. I have planned, participated in, and monitored prescribed fires; used machine learning to predict the flammability of vegetation; and modeled the explosive growth of megafires. I also enjoy connecting with and helping the community by working with residents to improve their wildfire resilience.

• GEOG 210: Physical Geography
• GEOG 327: Climatology
• GEOG 350: Pyrogeography
• GEOG 490: Senior Research or Field Practicum
• GEOG 495: Internship in Geography
• GEOG 497: Independent Study