What was your first job?
I have always kept busy working even while I was younger. My brothers and I always seemed to have yards to mow and odd jobs of that sort to earn some spending money. When I turned sixteen and was able to drive,I immediately applied for a dishwashing position at a local bed and breakfast. The experience was very positive and I worked there through high school and even afterwards. I worked a total of two years for the bed and breakfast in a variety of positions. My favorite was being able to chef a few days a week and also being the breakfast cook.
What were some other jobs that you have had over the years?
My next job was working at an auto body repair shop. I started out washing the cars, and eventually was promoted to running the estimating office. I learned a great deal at the body shop and formed some friendships that have lasted to present day.
After working at the body shop I worked for a couple in our church who owned a vending company. I remember being terrified of having to drive in the downtown Columbus area. I grew up in a small rural community and facing the city traffic was overwhelming. I eventually conquered my fears of driving in Columbus and as a result have no problem driving in any condition. I enjoyed my time working at the vending company and formed a friendship with the owners that continues to today. When I started working for Edwards Pools in ‘04, I continued working for the vending company through the winter months to stay busy.
I decided to leave the vending company in the beginning of ‘04 to work for my brother Nathan who was managing a pool company at the time. A few months into my employment the company closed. It was at this time that Edwards Pools was formed. I have usually had other jobs through the off season, but have worked for Edwards Pools continually since ‘04.
What else was happening in your life during the time you’ve described already?
The most signifanct thing that happened was that I met my wife Melissa. I first laid eyes on her while visiting a church that my family eventually joined. I want to say I was 17 and she was 15 at the time. We dated for several years then I ended the relationship (which my wife still reminds me of!!!). We eventually got back together and were engaged. We were married in March of 2001.
In the fall of 2001 we accepted an invitation to assist a small church in rural Illinois. After being married only ten months we moved to Illinois. We stayed in Illinois for a year almost to the day. While we learned a great deal while there, the experience was not what I would call extremely positive. We returned to Ohio to be near our families, and a job market that we were familiar with. This would have been in the beginning of ‘03, and I was lucky enough to resume employment with the vending company. A bright spot in ‘03 is that we were able to purchase our first home, which we still live in. We have made many improvements and enjoy living in the Logan area.
What about family? Do you have any Children?
We have two children, Trisha is nine and Hunter is seven. We received our foster to adopt license from Ohio in ‘04. Because of this we were able to adopt both of our children. Parenting has been an amazingly rewarding and challenging experience! Our children are definitely a blessing and a joy. Nothing beats coming home to a smile and a hug from your kids!
Tell us about your educational experience.
I graduated from Logan High School. I chose to enter the work force and not go to college. I would love to someday earn a degree, if only to have the satisfaction of accomplishing it for myself.
How do you spend your time outside of work?
During the busy season it seems that work involves the majority of my time. If not working you can typically find me at home. I like to read and do some wood working if time permits. Sometimes just keeping the lawn mowed and our home in good repair can take a great deal of my time. I also discovered weight lifting a few years ago. I don’t have time through the summer, but enjoy working out through the winter months. I’ll never be “ripped” but still enjoy trying to stay in shape.
What experiences have you had outside a work setting?
My faith in Jesus Christ has always been a big part of my life. I have already stated that my wife and I moved to Illinois to assist a small church there. While in Ohio we have been involved with several churches in our area. My wife is gifted musically and I have been involved in different aspects of church leadership. We have served as Sunday School teachers and Youth ministers. I have been involved with handling the administration and service structure of the church. We briefly pastored a small church, but due to circumstances out of our control we had to resign shortly after being named the pastors. Life has a way of taking twists and turns that honestly I never saw coming. Through all of this change my belief in Christ has been a constant anchor in my life.
Anything else we should know about you?
I think we have covered most of the highlights. I love to have fun and try not to take myself too seriously. I am excited about what the future holds and looking forward to enjoying this ride called life!