I was born in Stuart, Florida, but moved to Cleveland, Ohio when I was three and was raised there until I graduated high school. The traditional college path didn't feel right at the time, so instead I fell in love with playing music in bands and touring all over the country.

After a few years, the road caught up with me. In 2013 I joined the United States Army — a decision that taught me how to truly grow up. I served a tour in Afghanistan and had the privilege of getting to know people from every kind of background.

During that deployment I became determined to build something lasting when I got home. I'd always had an interest in creation and design, and that's when computer science clicked for me. Once I was back, I enrolled in the College of Western Idaho's Software Development program. It felt like being a mechanic — just with a computer instead of hand or power tools.

The future is bright, and so is the tech industry. I couldn't be more excited to be a part of it.