My background in accounting… During my accountancy training, I had worked in non-profit, manufacturing and production, but not yet in professional services. When the position become available at Sandis, I thought it would be a great opportunity to develop these skills at this thriving professional services company. I’ve been happy with my choice ever since.

A significant role model in my life… My wife’s grandfather worked for a Northern California district of a church denomination. His due diligence as the Treasurer (and eventually Superintendent) and his focus on serving others with his gifts and skills gained respect by all within the district. I strive to serve others after his example.

My approach to balance in work and play… I try to add innocuous humor in most meetings. The humor doesn’t always land, but even with the groans, smiles are generally created. I also prioritize carving out a time before or after work for some kind of sport to ensure a balance exists. I’m an active member of my church and often volunteer for community outreach. My community group’s latest volunteer effort includes tutoring underprivileged kids in Sacramento.

Family life… I have a beautiful wife and two lovely daughters, all fans of cats. Luckily for me, we only have one of those, an indoor/outdoor black cat that loves to bring into the house live lizards, birds, grasshoppers, dragonflies, mice, rats, and snakes.

Roots… I’ve lived most of my life in the northeast suburbs of Sacramento with a five year stint near Chicago as a teenager. The windchill factor is much lower here than there. At age 15, my first job was as a gas station attendant working 36 hours/week. In addition to the full-service duties of filling tanks, washing windows and checking the oil, I also cleaned the auto repair bays and repaired tire leaks during the slow times. As a kid I loved math, so I wanted to be a math teacher. As a teenager, I anticipated becoming a pilot through the military after high school. As high school approached conclusion, I followed advice to obtain a college degree before joining the military. Before my degree was complete, I married the girl of my dreams and put military and piloting plans to the side. I did get the opportunity to briefly fly a biplane in an open air cockpit and anticipate flying another small plane someday.

My favorite pastime outside of work is sports… I play slow-pitch softball two nights, pickup basketball one morning and pickup volleyball one night per week. I enjoy the camaraderie and banter that comes with light sports competition.

My ideal vacation… My wife and I enjoy traveling to view beautiful landscapes and experience alternative cultures. Whether within or outside the United States, we look forward to making a trip every year.