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He currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Departments of Forest Biomaterials (Wood & Paper Science) and Chemistry and as a faculty in the programs of Fiber & Polymer Science and Environmental Sciences. His laboratory, The Laboratory of Soft Materials & Green Chemistry, probes fundamental materials science topics focused on the green chemistry of renewable polymers. He received his Ph.D. in organic chemistry from the University of Florida for modeling photoinduced charge separation states of novel Rhenium (I)-based organometallic ensembles as a first order approximation of photosynthesis. He began his professional career as an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Paper Science and Technology at the Georgia Institute of Technology examining the mechanism of singlet oxygen’s chemistry with lignin & cellulose. A large part of his recent work has been focused on the chemical modification of cellulosics for biomedical applications.

 




Academic Background
• University of Florida, Gainesville, B.S. Chemistry, 1990
• University of Florida, Gainesville, Ph.D., Organic Chemistry

Additional Academic Activities / Honors
• CELL Division Organizer for ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering Annual Spring Meeting Symposium Award (in conjunction with ENVR Division), 2017 –
• Organizer, Fund Raiser, and Committee Chair for ACS Cellulose & Renewable Materials KINGFA Young Investigators Award, 2016 –
• Bio-AQUA proposal selected top five (5) Green & Sustainable Challenge Competition (Elsevier) from field of > 500 entries
• ACS Cellulose & Renewable Materials (CELL) Fellow, 2016
• Elected to International Association of Engineers (IAENG), 2015
• Fulbright (U.S.A.) Professorship (Brazil), 2014 – 2016
• National Foreign Talent Professor, Jiangnan University (2014 – present)
• Distinguished Professor of Green Polymer Chemistry, Qilu University of Technology (2014 – present)
• Board Membership on Global Technology Access, Inc. (GTA, Inc., 2014 – present)
• Manuscript in Green Chemistry cited as “Hot Article” on the 06 May 2014 Green Chemistry blog (http://blogs.rsc.org/gc/)
• Made cover for December 2, 2013 ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering (please see: http://pubs.acs.org/action/showLargeCover?issue=390659656)
• Invited Panelist for News Media Coverage of “First International Symposium on Bacterial Cellulose” at ACS 245th National Meeting in New Orleans, LA (April 8th, 2013)
• Member of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Polymeric Materials and Polymeric Biomaterials, 2012 - present
• Member of the Editorial Board of the Cellulose Chemistry & Technology, 2010 - present
• CNR Awardee for 2012 Outstanding Global Engagement Award
• CHAIR of ACS Cellulose & Renewable Materials (CELL) Division, 2012 - present
• Elected CHAIR of ACS Cellulose & Renewable Materials (CELL) Division, 2010-2012
• Member of Editorial Board of Materials Sciences and Applications, www.scirp.org/journal/msa, 2011 - present
• Adjunct Professor of State Key Laboratory of Pulp & Paper Engineering, South China University of Technology (Guangzhou, China), 2009 – 2012
• Awarded status of permanent faculty member on the Faculty of Engineering, University of Amazonas (Manaus, Brazil), 2009
• Nominated as an advisory member to the Board of SHE, 2009
• Community of Diversity Environmentor (CNR) Recognition, 2008
• Selected as a Cambridge Fellow (2008)
• Shandong Institute of Light Industry (Jinan, China) Honorary Professor (2008-2010)
• South China University of Technology (Guangzhou, China) US Research Scholar Travel Fellowship (2007-2010)
• Fellow of the International Academy of Wood Science (2007)
• “Faculty Research and Professional Development Fund 2007” (CNR, NCSU)
• Inaugural (2006) NCSU College of Natural Resources Community for Diversity Dean’s Office Award
•  “Faculty Research and Professional Development Fund 2005” (CNR, NCSU)
• “Faculty Research and Professional Development Fund 2004” (CNR, NCSU)
• 2000 TAPPI Local SE Section Recognition Award
• Nominated for Teacher of the Year, Georgia Institute of Technology (IPST), 1998 – 2002
• Georgia Institute of Technology “Class of 1969” Fellow, 1999
• NSF Jr. Faculty Travel Award, Barcelona, Spain: Photochemistry IUPAC, July 1998
• Rochester NSF Overseas Research/Teaching Award (Tokyo Metropolitan University), Fall 1997
• Merck Graduate Student Research Grant Recipient, 1994-95

 

Professional Experience

• RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, Paper and Wood Sciences Consultant, November 2017-present

• Distinguished Professor of Green Chemisty, 2014-present

•  Associate Professor, 2004-present

 

Professional Associations and Activities

• North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA), 2011-
• American Chemical Society (ACS) Cellulose & Renewable Materials Division Chair, 2012-
• American Chemical Society (ACS) Cellulose & Renewable Materials Division Chair-Elect, 2010-2012
• American Chemical Society (ACS) Cellulose & Renewable Materials Division Secretary, 2008-2010
• International Academy of Wood Science, 2007-
• American Chemical Society (ACS) Member, 1992-
• ACS Cellulose & Renewable Materials ACS Division Member, 1997-
• Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI), 1997-2005
• American Association of University Professors, 2001-2004
• Toastmasters Society (Techmasters/Georgia Tech), 1999-2004



He is an established expert in paper stock preparation processes, including headbox screening, centrifugal cleaning, refining, thick stock and broke screening. He is knowledgeable in recycled fiber processing, including direct entry fibers, deinking and industrial grade fiber recycling. He also specializes in unit operations include repulsing, cleaning, screening, fractionation, flotation deinking, wash deinking, dispersion, thickening and backwater system design. Proficient at introducing new ideas and technologies based on technical and economic benefits, he has authored multiple papers and delivered many presentations at industry association technical meetings. He has an extensive background in technical sales and marketing throughout the NAFTA region, applying a strong global knowledge base acquired through affiliation with European and Asian based work teams.




Academic Background
• Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH, Master of Business Administration
• Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI, Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Paper)

Professional Experience

RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, Paper Production Expert, (2017 to present)

Executive Director, private organization 2011 – Present
• Responsible for daily operations and strategic direction of a foundation at University in Oxford, OH.
• The foundation has approximately $3.5 million in endowments which is now self-managed. The proceeds are spent on scholarships for engineering students who are studying the paper technology curriculum. Recruiting new students to the Chemical, Paper and Biomedical Engineering Department is a major focus. Enrollment has grown to nearly 100 students in the program as a result of successful new initiatives. Corporate memberships, as well as individual memberships, are increasing as a result of the emphasis and personal relationships that have been established over the span of my career in the field. Alums are becoming more engaged in the business and success of the Foundation. Key strategies include focusing on income and effective communication of the mission.

Senior Consultant, Private company  (2011 – Present)
• Provide technical support for corporate clients that subscribe to the private business intelligence tool, including training in the software as well as assistance in strategic business analysis and data based decision making.
• Contribute to the improvement and integrity of the data included in the tool, regularly evaluating new dataset releases.
• Establish and maintain customer relationships with assigned clients, providing customer service functions that increase the likelihood of clients’ contract renewals.

Director, Sales & Technology, Andritz Inc. (2000 – 2010)
• Directly responsible for $3-5 million in annual equipment and systems sales of paper machine approach flow and recycled fiber processes. Significantly grew new customer base using technical advantages and value based proposals.
• Built market presence for Andritz’s entry into brown fiber recycling systems within North America; global team member supporting expansion into rapidly expanding Asian market.
• Leading growth of market penetration for new Andritz technologies (e.g., cylindrical refiners). Technical support for deinking technology team leader.

Service Account Manager, Andritz Inc. (2010)
• Direct sales responsibility for $1.5-2 million in annual sales to five state territory
• Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan (lower peninsula), and Kentucky.
• Product lines include engineered wear products, automation systems, machine rebuilds and replacement parts.
• Significantly increased year-over-year same account revenues by concentrating on excellence in customer service and attention to details surrounding unique value opportunities.

Director, Marketing, Black Clawson Co., Shartle Div. (1991 – 2000)
• Responsible for business planning, led executive team through the process, including successfully transitioning from cost based forecasting to profit centered forecasting.
• Developed high performance work team of integrated technical experts.
• Led global technical sales support for $60 million enterprise in recycled fiber processing systems sales.
• Rebranded and modernized established market leader after corporate acquisition, developing a unique marketing message and print appearance that reinforced a unique value proposition.

District Sales Manager, Bird Escher WYSS (1989 – 1991)
• Direct sales responsibility for central Midwest region (Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York) which produced approximately $3 million in annual bookings.
• Self-directed work required extensive scheduling skills and time management discipline.
• Team member with internal market management group focused on industrial grade recycling systems.

Marketing Manager, American Maize-Products Co. (1988 – 1989)
• Designed and implemented marketing efforts for all industrial corn starch products for paper, oil drilling, adhesive and textile markets, significantly growing gross margins while rationalizing a large family of products.
• Introduced disciplined approach to product margin optimization (spreadsheet analysis) to justify difficult decisions.

Product Group Leader, C-E Bauer (1982 – 1988)
• Successfully organized, staffed and managed product management team responsible for system and process design, machine sizing, instrumentation and controls logic for a broad range of stock preparation equipment.

Research & Development Technician, Plainwell Paper Co. (1981 – 1982)
• Designed and executed coating and pulp evaluation trials as part of grade development team.
• Participated in machine efficiency study and implemented fiber loss control system aimed at cost reduction.



This expert is an accomplished leader with a distinguished career in aviation. From the front desk of a small FBO, to the captain’s seat of a commercial airliner, she has been recognized as an effective leader who cultivates a collaborative and diverse work culture and builds partnerships internally and with external organizations. Possesses solid knowledge of the aviation industry and has been pursued by several journalistic platforms to provide advanced research and education for mass media consumption. Demonstrated capacity to present and advocate initiatives to a broad spectrum of individuals including funding agencies, private sector C-Level executives and government leaders.

Highlights Include:

• Airline Captain: International airline captain/typed Boeing 727-200 and CE 500 series aircraft. 6,000 TT. Flight Safety trained DA-20. Air ambulance, hazmat and corporate charter King Air 90, 100, 200, CE 402. Red Cross BE33. Experience in 28 makes/models of aircraft.

• Business/Aviation: 15 years in business aviation. Unique perspective from both managerial and pilot experience. Proven track record in managing budgets, together with experience in successfully developing and executing strategic plans, annual budgets and long-term funding plans. Experienced in developing operating methods to enhance business performance and meet strategic objectives.

• Organizational Leadership: Skilled in determining and refining organizational structures and requirements, with experience in integration of technical resources, change management and positioning organizations to respond to strategic opportunities including recruitment and retention.

• Communication: Skilled orator with expertise in advocating and presenting aviation topics to wide variety of audiences.

 




Academic Background
University of Denver, Colorado, B.A., International Business, Economics, Culture/Global Studies (National Honors Society. 3.9 GPA)

University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, B.A., Journalism program undergrad
Extension Minneapolis, Embry-Riddle extension – professional pilot program
ATP |Type rated: B727, CE 500
Sea Plane rating
Flight Engineer – Turbojet powered
Aerobatics
Professional Experience
RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, Flight Operations Instructor and Pilot Consultant, 2018 from to present.

Aviation Professor – State University, May 2016 – Present
Professor in the Aerospace and Aviation Department. Specializing in Aircraft Systems and Propulsion, Aviation Fundamentals, Instrument Ground School. Operational considerations for FAA Part 91, 135 and 121 operations. Expert witness experience. The best part of the job: bringing the next generation into aviation!

Director of Instructional Design – Private Academy, July 2016-Present
Collaborate with flight departments to put together a customized Part 91 and/or Part 135 eLearning ground training curriculum. Subject matter expert in mountain and high-altitude flight environments. Attend/present at aviation tradeshows, safety conferences and business aviation conventions.

Contributing Editor/Writer – Plane & Pilot, Denver, CO, Contract
Provide regular and feature aviation stories that focus on active pilots, the airplanes they fly, the gear they use and the information they need about the ever-changing world of aviation regulation.
▪ Attend industry gatherings.
▪ Interview aviation personalities and industry experts.
▪ Provide photographs, videos and other media for selected channels.
▪ Served as ultimate spokesperson for Plane & Pilot during interactions with key aviation rainmakers.

Dispatch/Charter Coordinator – International Jet Aviation, Centennial Airport, CO, Nov 2012 – Dec 2013
24/7/365 aircraft, flight, maintenance, customer and crew coordination for executive/high profile clientele. FAA Part 135 on demand charter, air ambulance, and international operations. Part 91 aircraft management. FOS software.

Professional Pilot Columnist/Writer – Disciples of Flight, NYC Aviation, Contrails, Mentor, Consumer Affairs, Business Insider, General Aviation News, Flying.com, Colorado Serenity magazine, Denver, CO, Aug 2009 - Present
Provide interesting articles about current aviation news and topics. Balanced between assigned and pitched topics. Engaged key technical experts and organizations including airline executives, flight universities and professional organizations.
▪ Up to 300,000 unique readers/month.
▪ Extensive social media network within key market sectors. 300K followers on LinkedIn. 12K on FB.
▪ Advocated to professional groups on behalf of important aviation issues.

Business Owner – ProHome Colorado, Evergreen, CO, Oct 2003 –Jul 2011
Formulated all sales and marketing strategic planning for construction warranty management business. Provided mediation services between new home construction company and new home buyers.  Transformed profitability through financial downturn without degrading quality. Accomplished: administration, HR, web design, designed training programs, ProKey software and expert witness organization.
▪ Developed solutions to influence long-range goals for the business platform, which had the ability to change during the downturn of the home building sector.
▪ B2B inside and outside sales.
▪ 29 CFR uniform construction regulation compliance.
Trade show demonstrations.

International Airline Captain, Northwest Airlines/DBA Champion Air, Minneapolis, MN, Sept 1998 – Oct 2004
FAA Part 121 pilot/captain. Captained a variety of high demand clients including: professional sports teams, mainline charter, DOD contracts, VIP and package tours. Excelled from flight engineer to first officer to captain within two years.
▪ High quality flight/sim training from NATCO and Pan Am.
▪ Systems ground instructor.
▪ One of the first pilots in the air after 9/11.
▪ Crew Resource Management.
▪ MEC negotiations.
▪ Proven and respected leader.

Charter Pilot/Flight Dispatch, Aviation Charter/Jetways/Elliott Beechcraft, FCM MSP STP June 1989 – Sept 1998
▪ King Air 90, 100, 200, 350. Typed Citation 500 series. Falcon 20 first officer.
▪ 24/7 air ambulance, charter, parts runner.
▪ Dispatch and charter coordinator.
▪ Billing and accounting.
▪ Pilot hiring and background checks.
▪ Extensive Part 91, 135, 141 flying and dispatching experiences.

Professional Affiliations
Int’l 99s, NBAA via AAA, EAA, AOPA, Lambda Sigma National Honors Society, WIA



An eminently qualified anatomic and clinical pathologist with over 30 years of experience as Director of Clinical Chemistry and Director of Surgical Pathology at a prominent laboratory, ; Chief of Pathology and Associate Pathologist at an award winning hospital center.

He holds a B.S., Honors, University of Maryland and M.D., Magna Cum Laude, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.  His post graduate training at The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital included: Chief Resident Laboratory Medicine; Assistant Resident, Surgical Pathology; Chief Resident, Surgical Pathology; Intern, Assistant Resident, Fellow, Pathology; and Externship, Pathology; as well as Externship, Medicine, Maryland General Hospital; and Externship, Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine and Hospital.  He also served as Locum Tenens in Pathology in several hospitals throughout Baltimore, MD and West Virginia.

He is a contributing author in several pathological issues for the Johns Hopkins Medical Journal and the Maryland Medical Journal, as well as other medical publications and abstracts.

He is a licensure of the Board of Medical Examiners, State of Maryland; Healing Art Commission, District of Columbia; and Bureau of Professional Affairs, State of Pennsylvania.

Has given evidence as an expert witness.




Academic Background

  • M.D., Magna Cum Laude, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; 1970-1974

  • B.S., Honors, University of Maryland, College Park, MD; 1966-1970


 

Post Graduate Training

  • Chief Resident Laboratory Medicine, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland; 1979 – 1980

  • Assistant Resident, Laboratory Medicine, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland; 1978 – 1979

  • Chief Resident, Surgical Pathology,     The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland; 1977 – 1978

  • Intern, Assistant Resident, Fellow, Pathology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland; 1974 – 1977

  • Externship, Medicine, Maryland General Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland; April – May  1974

  • Externship, Pathology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland; August – September 1973

  • Externship, Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine and Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland; June – July 1972


Honors and Awards

  • Fellow, College of American Pathologists – 1981

  • M.D., Magna Cum Laude, University of Maryland  School of Medicine – 1974

  • The Uhlenhuth Prize of Excellence in Anatomy, University of Maryland School of Medicine – 1974

  • Alpha Omega Alpha, University of Maryland School of Medicine – 1973


 

Professional Experience

  • Chief of Pathology, Anne Arundel Medical Center, 64 Franklin Street / 2001 Medical Parkway,  Annapolis, Maryland; May 22, 1986 – June 30, 2012

  • Associate Pathologist, Director of Surgical Pathology, Director of Clinical Chemistry, Maryland Medical Laboratory, Inc., Baltimore, Maryland; July 1980 – July 1986


 

Locum Tenens Experience (Pathology)

  • Lutheran Hospital of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland

  • The Good Samaritan Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland

  • Maryland General Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland

  • Franklin Square Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland

  • Church Hospital Corporation, Baltimore, Maryland

  • Kings Daughter Hospital, Martinsburg, West Virginia


 

Licenses and Specialty Boards

  • Board Certified Anatomic Pathology and Clinical Pathology, May 30, 1980

  • Board of Medical Examiners, State of Maryland, August 15, 1974, #D17160

  • Bureau of Professional Affairs, State of Pennsylvania, March 22, 1985, #MD – 033177 – E inactive)

  • Healing Art Commission, District of Columbia, March 30, 1981, #012753 (inactive)


Hospital Appointments and Other Appointments

  • Anne Arundel Medical Center, Annapolis, Maryland  1986 – Present

  • Provident Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, 1984 – 1986

  • Children’s Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, 1982 – 1986

  • The James Lawrence Kernan  Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, 1980 – 1986

  • Howard County General Hospital, Columbia, Maryland, 1980 – 1986

  • Church Hospital Corporation, Baltimore, Maryland, 1977 – 1980

  • Lutheran Hospital of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland 1976 – 1980

  • The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, 1974 – 1980


Other Appointments

  • Deaton Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland, 1984 – 1986

  • Bon Secour Ambulatory Surgery Center, Ellicott City, Maryland, 1984 – 1986

  • Levindale Geriatric Center and Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, 1982 – 1986


 

Societies

  • Alpha Omega Alpha

  • American Medical Association

  • American Society of Clinical Pathologists

  • College of American Pathologists

  • International Academy of Pathology

  • Maryland Society of Pathologists

  • US-Canadian International Academy of Pathology


 

Other Activities

  • Consultant, RTI Group, LLC, 2013 – Present

  • Consultant, Quest Laboratories, 2000 – 2006

  • Consultant, SmithKline Bio-Science Laboratories, 1991 – 2000

  • Inspector, College of American Pathologists 1986- Present

  • Medical Director,  Weems Creek Medical Laboratory, 1990 – 1996




This expert specializes in the inspection, assessment, and evaluation of wood and wood-based products used in all aspects of construction, engineering, and design. He has worked with national and international clients, including high profile engineering and architectural firms, government agencies, contractors, builders, homeowners, associations, public administrations, insurance companies and law firms.

He has conducted investigations and expert analyses including, but not limited to: failure analyses; visual grading of lumber and timbers in-situ; mechanical testing; resistance drilling and condition assessments; performance of structural composite lumber; wood species identifications; finish problems associated with wood and wood-based materials; assessment of wood decay; insect attack and marine borers; evaluation of marine and foundation timbers and pilings; microscopy analyses; mechanical testing; solid wood, engineered wood and bamboo flooring investigations; cedar shake and shingle roof and wall installations; furniture design and failure; wooden ladders; moisture intrusion issues in structures; building envelope issues; assessment of mold; performance of wood plastic composites; evaluation of glued laminated timbers; preservative retention analyses; assessment of cooling tower and lumber; analysis of shipping container flooring; and much more.

 




Academic Background
• Oregon State University, Master of Science, Wood Science and Engineering, 1998.
• SUNY College of Environmental Science & Forestry, Bachelor of Science, Construction Management & Wood Products Engineering, 1996.
• SUNY Oswego, Physics - major, Mathematics – minor, 1991-1993.

 

Additional Academic Activities / Honors
• American Society of Testing and Materials, 2013 – Award of Appreciation
• Forest Products Society (FPS), 2000-2004 – Northeast Section, Commendable Section
Award, Outstanding Section Award and Excellent Section Award.
• Forest Honor Society - Xi Sigma Pi, 1998.
• Presidents List - SUNY Environmental Science and Forestry, 1995-1996.
• Graduating Honors, Second in the Department of Wood Products Engineering, 1996.
• Nelson Courtland’s Brown Scholarship Award 1996, Dept. of Wood Products
Engineering.

 

 

Professional Experience

RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, Wood Scientist and Engineer, 2018 to present.

 

Private Company – Wood Scientist, Principal/Owner, 2015 – present

Responsibilities:

• Investigation and expert analyses relating to wood and wood-based materials used in all aspects of construction, design and engineering.
• Performing investigations of construction deficiencies and evaluation of anticipated current and future performance of wood structures and assemblies.
• Applied research on wood and wood-based products.
• Over-site of inspection equipment, testing machine, and laboratory equipment.
• Quality control wood treatment inspector.
• Administrative assignments associated with the operation of the firm.

 

Wood Advisory Services, Inc. – Wood Scientist, January 2005- June 2015
Responsibilities:
• Applied research on wood and wood-based products.
• Performing investigations of construction deficiencies and evaluation of anticipated future performance of wood structures and assemblies.
• Over-sight of the testing laboratory and several administrative assignments.

 

Wood Advisory Services, Inc. – Wood Technologist, November 1998- January 2005
Responsibilities:
• Investigations of problems associated with wood and wood-based products.
• Evaluations of wood products used in construction.
• Manage the testing laboratories.

 

Oregon State University Department of Forest Products – Graduate Research Assistant, September 1996- October 1998
Responsibilities:
• Research, design and implementation of a study examining the use or supercritical fluids for wood treating.
• Examined treatability of refractory softwoods using high density incising.
• Assisted in researching the protection of sawn lumber using Bacillus subtilis and selected fungi.

 

Oregon State University Department of Forest Products – Undergraduate Recruitment Coordinator, April 1997- October 1998
Responsibilities:
• Recruitment of undergraduates, transfer students and high school students using informational packages describing and illustrating the advantages of a degree in Forest Products.
• Planning, organizing, and executing departmental activities for student retention.

 

Oregon State University Department of Forest Products –Undergraduate Research Assistant, Summer, 1995
Responsibilities:
• Worked with treatability of Pacific Northwest softwoods using incising and through-boring.
• Efficacy projects associated with selected water-borne and oil-borne preservatives.
• Prepared samples for retention analyses.

 

 

Professional Associations and Activities

• Forest Products Society (FPS) Member: 1995 to present.
Positions: Northeast Section, Secretary (2000), Vice-Chair (2001), Chair (2002)
Membership Chair (2003), Trustee (2004 to present).

• American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Member: 2002 to present.
Positions: Member of Multiple Technical Committees, Section Chair (2002 to 2013)
D07.01.01 Physical Test Methods & Properties.

• American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Member: 2006 to present.

• American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) Member: 1999 to present.
Positions: Member of Multiple Technical Committees.

• American Wood Council (AWC) Member: 2016-present

• Southern Pine Inspection Bureau (SPIB)
Position: Technical Advisor, 2004-2014.
Position: Wood Treatment Inspector, 2017-present.

• Society of Wood Science and Technology - Member: 1999-present.

• Northeast Lumber Manufacturers Association - Associate member: 1999-2008.

• Rotary Club of Millbrook - Member: 2008 to present.
Positions: Sergeant at Arms 2009-2010, Vice President (President Elect) 2010-1011, President, 2011-2012, Board member 2010-2015.

• Mid County Rod and Gun Club
Member: 2009-Present. Board member, 2014-2016. Club Secretary, 2016-present.

• Student Construction Association - Member and treasurer, 1995.

• Habitat for Humanity - Construction Leader, Syracuse Chapter (1995)

• Resistograph Certification. Held by IML, December 15, 2006, Bronx, NY.

• Durability and Disaster Mitigation in Wood Frame Housing & Durability Protocol
Workshop. November 1-3, 1999. Madison, Wisconsin.

• American Society of Civil Engineering. Environmental/Marine Committee
Technical Seminar. New York 2006. Invited



Has more than twenty-five years of experience in maritime industry, including various managerial positions focusing on diverse aspects of Maritime Transportation Management

and Ship Technical Management.  He has an extensive technical foundation with advanced degrees and certifications in Marine Engineering.  He is an expert in technical supervision of vessels’ condition and of ship’s power plants; remote assistance and support of the vessel in resolving technical problems enriched by experience as a sea-going Marine Engineer.  Motivated professional with strong analytical, research and administrative skills, experienced in evaluation of vessels performance, basis on various key performance indicators.

 

Languages:  English, Russian, Ukrainian

 




Professional Experience

Senior Engineer Surveyor Consultant, RTI Group, LLC, Stevensville, MD – 2013 to present

Senior Engineer Surveyor,  New York, NY – 2013 to present

  • ­ Marine Casualty Investigation, Hull and Machinery damage surveys.   P&I Surveys, JH 2006 Warranty Surveys.   Using a combination of analytical skills and experience as marine engineer, work to determine the cause, nature and extent of damage due to collisions, groundings, salvage and other marine incidents. Investigation of fixed and floating object damage, hull and machinery damage, navigation and seamanship, the consequences of fuel contamination, pollution, shipboard operations, shipbuilding and ship repair disputes, and seaworthiness.


Senior Engineer Surveyor, GL Noble Denton, New York, NY – 2013 to 08/2013

  • ­   Marine Casualty Investigation, Hull and Machinery damage surveys. P&I Surveys, JH 2006 Warranty Surveys.  Using a combination of analytical skills and experience as marine engineer, work to determine the cause, nature and extent of damage due to collisions, groundings, salvage and other marine incidents. Investigation of fixed and floating object damage, hull and machinery damage, navigation and seamanship, the consequences of fuel contamination, pollution, shipboard operations, shipbuilding and ship repair disputes, and seaworthiness.


Technical Manager, Operations Dept, TBS Shipping Service, Inc. (affiliated with Roymar Ship Management), Yonkers, NY – 2006 to 2012

  • ­Supervised various lines of fleet technical management including equipment maintenance plans, installation of new ship’s equipment on 11 vessels; Controlled equipment repairs and maintenance on 20 vessels on an annual basis supervising and coordinating the work of technical and purchasing staff of 15 people and numerous service providers.

  • ­Developed fleet procedures and action-plans, was involved in development and implementation of automated system NS5 for vessel’s technical management; Organized automation of data and informational flows. Restructured processes to drive efficiency and reduce cost. Conducted risk analysis – ship’s operation and maintenance. Significantly minimized off-hire time and maximized the rate of cargo operations.

  • ­Supported Commercial and Operations departments in daily business technical queries, evaluating suitability of vessels for various cargoes. Controlled cargo-holds maintenance and treatment, with applicable equipment inventory for fleet of 50 vessels.

  • ­Conducted evaluation, analysis and monitoring of ship’s performance, speed & consumption for the whole fleet; Performed periodical vessel comprehensive inspection, and managed reports made by company’s internal auditors; Supervised fleet database systems; Controlled fleet EMS system, voyage management system.


Co-Founder, General Manager, Express Shipping and Ship Supply, Inc., Brooklyn NY / Linden, NJ – 1996 to 2006

  • Managed team of 8 employees providing high-quality service in supplying marine vessels with spares for machinery, engine room, deck, navigational and other equipment, servicing 15 ports of MA-CT-NY-PA-MD area, and maintaining relationships numerous ship-owners.

  • Supervised complete supplies for installation-projects renewed sets of equipment and modifications of vessels. Managed customer service, logistics, warehousing supervision, customs clearance, shipments inspection, legal issues and customer claims.


Operations Assistant Manager, Azov Shipping, Inc., Secaucus, NJ – 1995 to 1996

  • ­Managed vessel operating, documentation of TC and voyage charter parties, loading plans, laytime calculation, shipping documentation, bunkering, hire and freight calculation, shipping-brokerage issues and contracts.

  • ­Conducted booking and loading arrangements, shipping service marketing, etc.

  • ­Maintained records of surveys, repairs and maintenance for group of vessels.


Manager, Marine Engineering and Sales, Hightron Pacific, Inc., Headquartered in NJ, Vladivostok, Russia – 1993 to 1995

  • ­Led and implemented projects of equipment sales and installation for shipping and fishing companies.

  • Developed user-specific documentation and training manuals.

  • ­Provided user and administrator training on the implemented systems.

  • Communications network planning, configuration and optimization.


Professor, Far Eastern Marine Academy, Vladivostok, Russia – 1991 to 1993

  • ­Courses:  Vessel’s Power Plant Operation, Internal Combustion Engines Science, Power Plant Remote Control.


Merchant Marine Officer, 2nd Engineer, Far Eastern Shipping Company FESCO, Vladivostok, Russia – 1988 to 1991

  • Marine engineer on board passenger, tankers, and dry cargo vessels.


 

Academic Background

Far Eastern Marine Academy, Vladivostok, Russia

  • ­Ph.D. in Technical Science and Engineering – 1993

  • ­Master’s Degree, Marine Engineering and Maritime Transportation Management – 1988

  • ­Minor in Computer Science


 

Certification and Licensing

  • Marine Engineer Certificate of Competency; Certificate of SOLAS,

  • “Damage (Machinery)” and “Port State Control (PSC)”, training programs by Class NK;

  • “ILO Maritime Labor Convention-2006”, “Hull Inspection, Damage and Repair”,

  • “Practical Approach to Port State Control”, “Classification & Statutory Surveys”, training courses by Lloyd’s Register NA.


Professional Affiliations

  • Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology (IMarEST)

  • Connecticut Maritime Association (CMA)




He is an Airline Transport Pilot and former Check Airman with over 35 years of civil aviation flight experience and over 16,000 flight hours. He is also a practicing Expert Witness and Aviation Attorney. He has participated on Aviation Rulemaking Committees and development and evaluation of safety policies and procedures for Coalition of Airline Pilots Associations (COPA) member pilots.  He has also been involved in developing and evaluating Safety Management System (SMS) policies and procedures with his pilot union’s Safety Committee.

His legal experience includes practice in general civil litigation, labor and employment matters, and FAA certificate action matters.

He has acted, and is currently teaching online aviation law courses, as an Embry-Riddle adjunct faculty member in the Department of Doctoral Studies and Worldwide Online.  He has developed courses for initial offering as well as syllabi and exams for the online aviation law courses.




Academic Background

• Duquesne University School of Law: Juris Doctor, Pittsburgh, PA, 2006

• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: Bachelor of Science - Aeronautical Science, Daytona Beach, FL, 1980

• Associate in Science – Aviation Management, Daytona Beach, Fl, 1980

• Associate in Science – Aeronautical Studies, Daytona Beach, Fl, 1979

 

Professional Experience

• Aviation Law, Safety, and Accident Investigation, RTI Forensics, LLC, 2012 – Present

• Pilot, Part 121 Operations,  1985 – Present
o Flight Engineer, B-727, 1/85-6/86
o First Officer, DC-9, 7/86-12/88
o First Officer, MD-80, 1/89-8/90
o Captain, MD-80, 8/90-1/92
o First Officer, B-767, 2/92-3/93
o Captain, DC-9, 4/93-4/94
o Check Airman, DC-9, 5/94-7/95
o Check Airman, MD-80, 8/95-11/97
o Senior Check Airman, MD-80, 11/97-4/02
o FAA Aircrew Program Designee, MD-80, 3/98-4/02
o Captain, B-737, 6/02-9/05
o First Officer, A-320, 4/07-3/08
o Captain, A-320, 4/08-present

 

• Co-Chairman, Safety Committee:  Pilots Association, 2009- 2011
• Chairman, Violations Committee:  Pilots Association, 2009-Present
• Accident Investigation Committee Member:  Pilots Association,    2008-Present

• Safety Committee Member:  Pilots Association, 2008-Present
• Air Safety Representative: Air Line Pilots Association, International, 2007-2008

 

Other Professional Experience

• Basic Safety School – Air Line Pilots Association, International

• Aviation Safety Management Systems (SMS) – MITRE Aviation Institute

• NTSB Accident Investigation Orientation – National Transportation Safety Board

• NTSB Aircraft Accident Investigation - National Transportation Safety Board

 

Professional Associations and Activities

• American Bar Association

• Pennsylvania Bar Association

• Allegheny County Bar Association

• Lawyer Pilots Bar Association

• NTSB Bar Association

• American Association for Justice

• Defense Research Institute

• International Society of Air Safety Investigators

• US Airline Pilots Association

• National Aeronautic Association

• Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association

• Society of Aviation and Flight Educators

• Aviation Insurance Association

• University Aviation Association

• Admitted to practice:
o Pennsylvania
o U.S. District Court for Western District of Pennsylvania

 

Licenses and Professional Affiliations

• Airline Transport Pilot

• Type Ratings; Embraer: EMB-110, Douglas: DC-9/MD-80. Boeing: B-737, B-757/B-767 and Airbus: A-319/A-320/A-321

• Flight Engineer - Turbojet

• Certified Flight Instructor - Airplane Single-Engine Land, Airplane Multi-Engine Land

• Instrument Airplane

• Ground Instructor - Advanced Instrument



An internationally recognized expert in large aircraft accident investigations. He retired from The Boeing Company following a forty-plus year career.  While at Boeing he led the investigative team at Boeing Commercial Airplanes.  During that time he not only managed the team of investigators and directed their participation in major accidents and incidents, he also undertook investigations as Boeing’s prime investigator on many events.

During that time the Boeing fleet experienced approximately 2,500 events, more than 250 of which were classified as accidents involving hull losses, fatalities or major damage.  He regularly represented Boeing at government agency public hearings.  He also served as the primary link between accident causes and recommendations and Boeing engineers involved in design, maintenance and operation.

Served as the company’s liaison with its outside counsel on accident investigation matters.  In this position he provided depositions, fulfilled requests for production of documents and answered interrogatories.

 

His Boeing experience included many other areas of safety such as reviewing service bulletins, serving on the editorial board of the company’s technical quarterly publication to customers and general safety liaison within the company.  His areas of technical expertise include hydraulics, landing gear, and flight controls.

Also served as Boeing’s interface with safety and regulatory agencies and has been a popular speaker on safety issues to a wide variety of audiences.

As a founding partner of Safety Services International (SSI) in 1999 and aviation safety consultant, he was the lead investigative expert to provide top-of-the-line safety consulting services to the world’s aviation and maritime industry and government. SSI was acquired by RTI Group, LLC in 2010.




Academic Background

  • BS Industrial Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle

  • BS Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle

  • Senior Management Seminars, Boeing

  • Certificate in Aircraft Accident Investigation, Southern California Safety Institute


 

Registration

  • Registered Professional Engineer, Mechanical: Washington State

  • Licensed Pilot, SEL


 

Professional Experience

RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD.  Large Aircraft Accident Reconstruction and Investigation Management Consultant, 2010 – present.

Safety Services International (SSI), aviation safety consultant and founding partner in the firm.  SSI was an aviation and maritime safety consulting firm formed in 1999 to provide top-of-the-line safety consulting services to the world’s aviation and maritime industry and government.  SSI was acquired in 2010 by RTI Group, LLC.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes:

  • Manager, Chief Engineer and Director, Air Safety Investigation, 1982-1998

  • ­   Manager, Airline Support Engineering, 1979-1982

  • ­   Operations Manager, Field Service, 1976-1979

  • ­   Field Service Base Manager, Amsterdam and London, 1970-1976

  • ­   Engineer and Lead Engineer, various Boeing commercial programs, 1959 -1970


Selected Major Accident Investigation Experience

General

  • Oversaw investigations of more than 2,500 events including approximately 250 that were classified as accidents.


NTSB Public Hearings

  • Company spokesperson for eight major U.S. accidents


On-Site Investigations

  • Air Florida 737-200, take-off, Washington DC

  • Iran Air 737-100 re-contacted ground after rotation, Tehran, Iran

  • Eastern 727-200 CFIT, near LaPaz, Bolivia

  • Japan Airlines 747 SR pressure bulkhead rupture and loss of control, Mt. Ogura, Japan

  • FAA 720 test airplane, Edwards Air Force Base

  • Buffalo Airways 707-300 crashed during approach, Kansas City, MO

  • Condor 737-200 CFIT during approach, near Izmir, Turkey

  • Delta 727-200 partial gear-up landing, Portland, OR

  • Ethiopian 737-200 crashed after multiple bird strikes, Bahar Dar, Ethiopia

  • International Airways 707-300 CFIT during approach, Santa Maria, Azores

  • Royal Australian Air Force 707-300 crashed into sea during training flight, near Sale, Australia

  • Tower Air 747-100 refused takeoff accident, New York

  • El Al 747F engine separation and crash, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

  • DLH 747F refused takeoff accident, Hong Kong

  • Fawcett 737 CFIT on final approach, Arequipa, Peru

  • United 747 turbulence fatality, over the Pacific Ocean


Professional Associations and Activities

  • AIG meetings, International Civil Aviation Organization, (ICAO) Montreal, Delegate/Observer, 1992 & 1999

  • Airline Pilots Association, Panelist-Safety Training Seminars, San Diego, Washington D.C. 1993 – 1997

  • American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

  • American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)

  • Aviation Insurance Association (AIA), Northwest section

  • Boeing Employees Choir, Vice President

  • International Society of Air Safety Investigators, (ISASI). Co-chairman, ISASI annual seminar, 1995, Seattle, Washington, theme: “Today’s Investigators, Tomorrow’s Trends & Technology”

  • Museum of Flight (MOF), Seattle Washington, Docent

  • Safety Study Group, Advisor, Linacre College, Oxford, UK, 1999

  • Southern California Safety Institute (SCSI), Board of Advisors

  • Sunset Acres Owners Association, Lopez, WA, President 2000-2002

  • The Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS)

  • The Society for Industrial Archeology (SIA)




An Aircraft Operations and Regional Airline Operations consultant with over 30 years of experience in all types of aircraft operations.  His rating and certifications include: Boeing 737, Cessna-CE-500, Short SD3-30, Beech 1900/300, DeHavilland DHC-8 and DHC-7; and Flight Instructor – ASMEL-Instrument, Gold Seal, Ground Instructor, Aircraft Dispatcher, and Airline Transport Pilot ASMEL

He has held various operations management positions through continental US and Alaska, i.e., Vice President Operations, Raytheon Airline Aviation Services, Wichita Kansas; Chief Operating Officer, FAR 119, FAR 121 Director of Flight Operations Great Lakes Aviation, LTD., Cheyenne, WY; and Chief Operating Officer/UNDAF, Grand Forks, North Dakota.

He is also a published author of many industry papers and manuals.  In addition, he is an experienced speaker and instructor.

 




Aircraft Flight Training

  • Beechcraft, 1900 Flight Safety, Wichita, KS, 1991

  • DeHavilland, Dash 8, Flight Safety, Toronto, Canada, 1990

  • Piper, Cheyenne-400LS, Flight Safety, Lakeland, FL, 1987

  • Cessna, CE-500, Martin Aviation, Santa Ana, CA, 1986

  • Boeing, B737 AirCal, Newport Beech, CA, 1986

  • DeHavilland, Dash-7, DeHavilland Aircraft, Toronto, Canada, 1980

  • Short, SD-3-30, Short aircraft, Belfast, Ireland, 1976

  • Beechcraft, King Air, Beech Aircraft, Wichita, KS, 1976


 

Aircraft Type Ratings and Additional Certificates

  • Boeing 737, Cessna-CE-500, Short SD3-30, Beech 1900/300, DeHavilland DHC-8, DHC-7

  • Flight Instructor – ASMEL-Instrument, Gold Seal, Ground Instructor, Aircraft Dispatcher, Airline Transport Pilot ASMEL


 

Aviation Experience/Qualification

  • Total Aircraft Flight Hours – 14,032               Turbine – 11,874

  • Airline Flight – 10,391                        Instructor – 4,118

  • Pilot Examiner-Beech 1900/A.T.P., 1990/94

  • Extensive Remote Site Operation Supporting oil Industry, 1983/89

  • Established world’s first MLS/STOL; Approach Procedures, Valdez, Alaska, 1983

  • Established first RNAV/STOL Approach Procedures, South Lake Tahoe, 1981

  • Established Flag/Domestic/Supplemental Air Carriers Operation Specification,

  • MarkAir, ERA, Golden West, 1978/92

  • Established TCA Flight Operations Procedures, Los Angeles, 1978/81

  • Check Airman/Instructor: B-737, DHC-6, DHC-7, DHC-8, Short SD3-30, BE-1900, 1977/93

  • Instructed over 100 Captains receiving Type Ratings for Transport Category Aircraft, 1977/93


 

Professional Experience

  • RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD; Aircraft Operations and Regional Airline Operations, 2010 to present

  • Safety Services International (SSI), Sammamish, WA, Associate, 2001-2010

  • Vice President Operations, Raytheon Airline Aviation Services, Wichita Kansas; 10/02-07/03

  • Chief Operating Officer, FAR 119, FAR 121 Director of Flight Operations Great Lakes Aviation, LTD., Cheyenne, WY; 07/00 – 02/02

  • Interim Dean John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences; 10/98 – 7/00

  • Chief Operating Officer/UNDAF, Grand Forks, North Dakota; 5/96 – 7/00

  • President and CEO, Skyway Airlines, Milwaukee, Wisconsin; 1/94 – 5/96

  • President and CEO, Blue J. Leasing, Inc., Anchorage, Alaska, 3/93- Present

  • Senior Management, Markair, Anchorage, Alaska; 6/90 – 1/94

  • President, Markair Express, Anchorage, Alaska, 5/86 – 6/90

  • Manager, FAR 121 Compliance, ERA Helicopters, Anchorage, Alaska; 6/83 – 5/86

  • Chief Pilot, Golden West Airlines, Los Angeles, CA; 5/73 – 5/83

  • Flight Instructor, Martin Aviation, Santa Ana, CA; 1/71 – 5/73

  • Machinist, Cherry Rivet Co., Santa Ana, CA; 1/65 – 1/71

  • U.S. Marines; 1960 – 1964


 

Professional Memberships and Activities

  • Aims Community College, Aviation Advisory Council

  • Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association

  • Airline Pilots Association

  • Alaska Air Carriers Association Board of Directors

  • Alaska Regional Director Round Table

  • America Aviation Historical Society

  • Congressional Aviation Rule Making Advisory Committee, Air Carrier, Chairman

  • Council of Aviation Accreditation

  • Dash-7, Dash-8 Maintenance Operations Committee

  • Established Flight Operations Procedures, Soviet/FAR East, Markair

  • Experimental Aircraft Association

  • FAA, Industry Airline Scheduling Committee

  • Industry Working Group for carriage of main deck cargo/passenger aircraft

  • Medallion Foundation Board of Directors

  • Orange County Noise Abatement Committee

  • Pilot Pre-Employment Screening Standards and Criteria Working Group

  • Regional Air Association, Associate Member Council

  • Regional Airline Association Board of Directors

  • Regional Airline Association, FAR Part-119 Committee

  • Regional Airline Association, Safety Committee

  • University Aviation Association

  • University of North Dakota “83” Society

  • University of North Dakota, Fighting Sioux Director Club




This expert is a distinguished graduate of the Air Force Officers Training School. He wrote accident investigation manuals for several countries.  Advised corporate and commercial aircraft operators in development of Emergency Response Plans.  Taught accident investigation courses for the International Civil Aviation Organization, NTSB, and USC.  Supervised more than 200 aircraft accident investigations per year in the northwest US.  Instructed  mid-air collision and in-flight breakup investigation procedures in the NTSB accident investigation school through classroom lectures and mentoring student examination of wreckage.

Directed a team of specialists in the special study of aviation safety in Alaska, including a review of previous research, surveys, interviews, public forums and a presentation of the report to the NTSB Board.  Initiated and ran the ICAO/NTSB Accident Investigation Workshop series in Asia.  US Air Force Pilot with flying experience in Europe and the United States.  Represented NTSB as an instructor in accident investigation workshops in Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, India, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, China & Germany.  Coordinated the initial curriculum and crash laboratory for the NTSB Academy.




Academic Background

  • Bachelor of Arts in Physics, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO

  • Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology, Ball State University, Muncie, IN

  • Senior Executive Fellow, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA


 

Continuing Education and Training

  • Distinguished Graduate of the Air Force Officers Training School

  • FAA issued commercial certificate for single and multi-engine airplanes and helicopters

  • Certified Flight Instructor

  • Type rating in L-382 aircraft


 

Professional Experience

2006 – Present Consultant/ Independent Contractor to NTSB, USC, ICAO and corporate operators

1990 – 2006  Director Northwest Region National Transportation Safety Board