I joined the U.S. Navy in January, 1984 and served 4 years as a Machinist Mate. The years of active Navy service helped me mature and provided a foundation for future endeavors while increasing my mechanical skills and experience. As I neared the end of my enlistment, I was torn between continuing my active service or separating to pursue opportunities in the civilian industry. Having gained experience repairing and operating Navy air compressors, I applied to Dresser-Rand (D-R) at the Hampton, VA location for a Mechanic Level III position.

I joined D-R in January, 1988 and it has been like a second family for me. During my career, I was afforded excellent growth opportunities. I learned a wide variety of skills, including management / supervision and leadership as well as continuously improving my skills as a tradesman. My positions of increased responsibility prepared me for the challenges associated with each assignment and made me secure in my knowledge that I was always fully supported by senior managers.

The company has also provided me with the tools, knowledge in my professional life and experience to become successful in my personal life too. I have been married for 30 years to my wife Stephanie, and I have four children; Jacob, Taylor, Craig, and Meaghan. The security that my family and I enjoy through steady reliable employment has allowed us to achieve the American Dream of home ownership a good quality of life and confidence in a secure retirement when the time comes. D-R/SGT has made all of this possible for me by giving me the opportunity to grow and succeed. I look forward to continuing that success into my retirement.