I joined the Army in 2006 as a Combat Medic. I served 13 months in Iraq during OIF. After coming back I worked in the Fort Carson Emergency department where I assisted in opening the new department and was responsible for establishing the trauma room layout and inventory protocols. In 2011 I was sent to South Korea where I worked close to the DMZ for a year. After that I was assigned special missions in 4 different countries of Africa, where I taught their militaries combat first aid and deployment operations. It was during my time in Africa that I grew a deeper love for the outdoors and traveling. I knew that after 14 years in the military I wanted to continue my passion for helping others. I graduated from UCCS with a Bachelors of Health Science Strength and Conditioning where I became a trainer for athletes. After a shorter stint I realized working inside a fitness facility wasn’t for me and needed to be outside. I am currently studying at Colorado Mountain College in Leadville as an Outdoor Recreation Leader. My love for the military and the great outdoors combines at HCVA where I can help reconnect Vets to nature. I have finally found my home and true meaning in life.