My Background

Employment

I’m a retired technology executive, with broad technical, administrative and budgetary experience. My career has had a "Silicon Valley" focus since I started, as a computer peripheral field engineer for National Semiconductor. Later, I became a mainframe engineer in their Advanced Systems division. I then grew interested in global network engineering, and I’ve had significant or full responsibility for the design and deployment of a number of large, multinational voice/data networks. My most recent position was that of Chief Security Officer for a multi-national Fortune 500 company. 

Education

I’ve studied various physical and natural sciences and technologies, environmental biology, human and natural ecology, formal logic, ethics, and technical management. I’ve earned a number of advanced degrees over the years, with published research, most recently a Doctor of Science (ScD) from Washington University, School of Engineering and Applied Science. 

Other Experience

My construction experience and knowledge of engineering principles and will help me assess civil engineering-related questions that come before Council for development, zoning, or infrastructure.  I’m interested in the hydrology of erosion; my service on the Watershed Erosion Task Force is important to me. Years ago, I walked Fox Creek from the headwaters to the Meramec River. 

I’m a serious student of biology, with a background in botany. I’ve had lifelong interest in local ecology and forestry, and I’ve been a member of the MO Botanical Garden since 1977. My land is part of the “St. Louis County Greenbelt” and I’ve worked hard for many years to improve the health of my fields and forest, to eliminate invasive species, and increase health and diversity of native ones.