What are some of your favorite memories from your time at the DuBois Area School District?
Being a student-athlete, especially playing football, shaped many of my favorite memories at DuBois. Friday nights under the lights, the energy from the crowd, and the pride of representing our school stand out the most.
Just as meaningful were the day-to-day moments, like practices, time in the weight room, and the discipline it required. More than anything, it was the bond with teammates and coaches and being part of something bigger than yourself that made the experience unforgettable.
Were there any teachers, coaches, or classes that had a lasting impact on you?
That’s hard to narrow down to just one. So many teachers and coaches at DASD made an impact, and together they created a true sense of family. Their support, expectations, and the relationships they built with students are what stand out the most and have stayed with me over time.
What activities, clubs, or sports were you involved in as a student?
Football, basketball and baseball. I was also a member of a few clubs, most notably the American Cancer Society.
Tell us about your current career or professional role. What does a typical day look like for you?
I work in the oil and gas industry with Cactus Companies, specifically in the Cactus Wellhead division, where I serve as the ISS Supervisor for the region. My role operates in a fast-paced, account management environment that requires constant multitasking. On a typical day, I’m coordinating customer needs through CRM systems while also staying actively engaged on the production floor alongside our service and manufacturing teams.
What led you to pursue this career path?
My wife and I knew we wanted to stay in the area after graduating from Clarion University. When the natural gas industry began to expand in our region, this company relocated to DuBois, which created an opportunity for me to get in early. From there, I worked my way up through the branch to reach my current role.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
The grind. My industry is 24/7 and there are no days off. I am on call 365 days of the year, which can be exhausting, but when projects and timelines are met, our customer relations grow.
Have you received any recognitions, awards, or achieved milestones you're especially proud of?
I have been selected to go to leadership programs and training to represent our region but my greatest and proudest milestones are my 3 daughters; Emma, Paityn and Maya (MJ). My family is my world!
How did your experiences at the DuBois Area School District help prepare you for your career or further education?
DuBois Area School District’s strong sense of community played a key role in shaping my goals early on. It motivated me to work hard, pursue college, and ultimately give back to the community wherever my path led.
If you could go back to high school, what goal-setting advice do you wish someone had given you?
Focus more intentionally on your long-term goals, particularly preparing for college and your career path. I would also encourage getting involved in a broader range of extracurricular activities beyond athletics to build a more well-rounded experience.
How do you define success, and how has that definition evolved over time?
When I was a young adult and student, I defined success as money, importance, nice things, etc. Today, I describe success in finding things that make YOU happy and fulfilled. For me that is raising my 3 daughters with my beautiful wife while I continue to stay healthy, being a good person and working hard!
What skills or habits do you believe are most important for students to develop while they're in school?
Recognize early that nothing is guaranteed; what comes easily today can change quickly. Develop a strong work ethic, stay organized, and consistently treat others with kindness. Those habits will position you to reach your goals and navigate whatever comes next.
How do you stay connected to the DuBois Area School District community or give back to others?
Two of my three children currently attend Wasson Elementary, which keeps me closely connected to the district. We regularly attend school events - not just for them, but also to support my nieces and nephews and the broader student body through activities like school plays and athletic events. In addition, I’ve served as a volunteer coach in the DSA girls soccer program for the past four seasons, which has been a meaningful way to give back and stay involved.