US Navy 1989-1994
Master of Physics, VCU 1999
I am a lifelong Richmonder and love the simple life I live with my wife and two daughters in a lush urban forest near the banks of the ancient James River.
After travelling the world for five years as an enlisted member of the United States Navy, I earned a Master’s Degree in Physics before deciding that trees and nature had become my passion. I started Truetimber in 1998, and started an outdoor outfitting business called Riverside Outfitters in 2005 to share my love of our river, our trees, and the tree climbing experience.
In 2014 I was named a “River Hero” by the Friends of the James River Park for my stewardship of the great Richmond Outdoors.
When I am not working(rare) I am running Richmond’s streets and trails, hanging out with family, or reading and writing.
US Army 1989-1992
ISA Certified Arborist, MA-0657AT
VNLA Certified Horticulturist #: 2325
B.S. Forestry and Wildlife, Virginia Tech 1996
I love everything about Richmond including my high school sweetheart and my 3 children who all attended the same high school I attended. After high school I joined the US Army where I served as an Infantry soldier. I fortunately spent my duty close to home, stationed in Arlington, VA with the ceremonial unit, The Old Guard. Directly after the military, I pursued and completed my degree in Forestry and Wildlife Science, realizing my true passion was in trees. My first stop as an Arborist was with a company here in Richmond where I learned most of my tree climbing skills and was a salesman for that company. After Hurricane Isabel in 2003 and climbing a lot of trees, I was hired as one of the City of Richmond Arborists and was quickly promoted to Urban Forester. Shortly thereafter, when I met Truetimber through recreational tree climbing events in the City, I realized I could combine my enthusiasm for the natural world and my passion for trees and call Truetimber my home. Having ridden my bike all over the city as a youth along with my past experience raft guiding the James, I continue to find new and unexplored gems in RVA. In addition to my passion for trees, if you want to have a long conversation with me, get me talking about cycling, mountain biking, alternative medicine and real food.
ISA Certified Arborist 5926AT
ISA Tree Climber Specialist
TCIA Aerial Lift Specialist
I’ve worked for Truetimber since 2015 and it’s the best job I’ve ever had. I never thought getting a high from the work I’m doing would take me all the way to the tree tops! It’s been a great time meeting new people in the city and helping them to make the best decisions for their trees. I consider myself a steward of the trees and I find beauty and purpose in all of them, even the Ailanthus! In my spare time I like to go down to the river, hang out with my dog Lil Bill and ride my chopper across the city with not much for a destination, pulling over whenever I might see a neat tree!
B.A. History, Virginia Commonwealth University, 2015
ISA Certified Arborist MA-6082AT
Certified Tree Care Safety Professional CTSP 03624
VNLA Certified Horticulturalist 3515
TRAQ (Tree Risk Assessment Qualification)
Although I’m originally from California, I have lived in Virginia for just over a decade now and specifically in Richmond for most of that time! I spent my college years as a very active rock climber and outdoorsman and promised myself to choose a career that would keep me outside. After graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2015 I worked for a brief time with the James River Park System before finding Truetimber. I am so happy to have discovered arboriculture and am proud to call myself an arborist. I cannot imagine myself in any other profession
When I am not taking care of Richmond’s urban forest, I enjoy playing and listening to heavy metal, as well as playing Dungeons and Dragons and various other tabletop games.
ISA Certified Arborist
Truetimber Academy Grandis Level Graduate
Working at Truetimber has allowed me to experience up-close the diverse urban forest of Richmond – a daily opportunity I am very grateful for! On the weekends I’m usually digging around in the dirt, skateboarding, or making “art” in my studio.
I’ve always felt a strong connection to True Timber Arborist, having been part of the team during its early days of vibrant growth and development. The experience not only shaped my career but also set a standard I’ve carried with me to every opportunity since.
Coming back to True Timber and putting on the red shirt again is both an honor and a full-circle moment—especially since it’s also where I married my wife, Laura, this past October.
For me, True Timber is more than a workplace; it represents a commitment to quality, community, and teamwork. It’s inspiring to be part of a company that values people as much as the environment, and I’m proud to contribute to its legacy.
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring Richmond, and appreciating the beauty of nature. True Timber has always felt like home, and I’m excited to help write its next chapter.
Proud mom of daughter Riley and wife to Dusty. Hobbies include running, reading and floral design/crafting. I can usually be found with my sidekick and BFF Jed tagging along.
I have worked for Truetimber since 2007. My primary role is to keep our equipment up and running, and to keep our teams fully equipped with what they need to do their jobs well.
© 2025 Truetimber. All Rights Reserved.
