Loading...
Senior Expert Fire Investigator and Fire Marshal with over 10 years of fire investigation and code enforcement experience and 30 years in law enforcement. Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator (CFEI) and Certified Vehicle Fire Investigator (CVFI) with extensive hands-on origin-and-cause examinations for residential/commercial structures, vehicles, and heavy equipment. Experienced in scene documentation, interviews, evidence handling, and clear reporting for insurers, attorneys, and public agencies.

  • Fire and explosion investigations (structure and contents)

  • Vehicle and heavy equipment fire investigations

  • Fire code enforcement, inspections, and public safety education

  • Court-accepted expert experience; work with municipal, insurance, and legal stakeholders


EMPLOYMENT

Senior Expert Fire Investigator Feb 2024- Present

RTI Group, LLC.

·         Certified Fire and Explosion investigator, conducting structure loss investigations.

·         Certified Vehicle Fire Investigator, conducting vehicle, heavy equipment loss investigations.

 

Senior Expert Fire Investigator June 2019- Present

Advanced Forensic Fire Investigations

·         Certified Fire and Explosion investigator, conducting structure loss investigations.

·         Certified Vehicle Fire Investigator, conducting vehicle, heavy equipment loss investigations.

 

Expert Fire Investigator Oct 2018-June 2020

James Valentine Fire Investigations

·         CVFI, conducting all vehicle loss investigations

·         Conduct Fire Scene Examinations, Interviews and providing research and category

·         Origin and Cause.

 

Fire Marshal, June 2018-present

Lower Chichester Township, Lower Chichester, Pa 19061

·         Enforce fire codes for all businesses, schools, etc. in township.

·         Educating officials and employees on proper fire procedures

·         Investigate and report on origin and cause of all township fires

 

Expert Fire Investigator, May 2018- present

Forensic Scientific Services,

·         Conduct thorough fire investigations on-site

·         Communicate with clients about protocol regarding the investigation and insurance

·         Provide reports to necessary parties

 

Expert Fire Investigator, April 2016 – June 2018

NEFCO Fire Investigations,

·         Conduct thorough fire investigations on-site

·         Communicate with clients about protocol regarding the investigation and insurance

·         Provide reports to necessary parties

 

Fire Marshal, August 2023

Parkside Borough, Parkside Pa. 19015

·         Enforce fire codes for all businesses, schools, etc. in the borough.

·         Educating officials and employees on proper fire procedures

·         Investigate and report on the origin and cause of all borough fires.

 

Fire Marshal, January 2013 - June 2015

Chadds Ford Township, Chadds Ford, PA 19317

·         Enforced fire codes for all businesses, schools, etc. in township

·         Educated officials and employees on proper fire procedures

·         Investigated and reported on origin and cause of all township fires

 

Police Force, 1985 - 2015

Chester Township, Chester, PA, 19013

·         Held multiple positions throughout tenure:

o   1985-1998 Patrol Officer Shift Supervisor

o   1998-2002 Criminal Investigator

o   2002-2015 Patrol Commander

o   2015-Retirement, Lieutenant of Police.

·         Assigned as the positions of Fire Investigator, Arson Expert, Narcotics Expert, Lead Criminal Investigator, and Detective

·         Acted as Lead Investigator involving Internal Investigations and investigations relating to juveniles and elderly persons

·         Appointed as Field training officer and Field training supervisor

o   Supervised 26 sworn staff members and overseeing patrol operations at time of retirement

·         Trained by State and Federal agencies in emergency management skills and tactics, including interviewing and offender profiling

·         Trained in National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) American Heart Assn. and American Red Cross, First Aid, CPR and AED Instructor.

·         Acknowledged by court as expert in the fields of Fire Investigation and Narcotics investigations.

·         Appointed as a Arson Task Force Member, by (former) District Attorney.

 

EDUCATION

·         Delaware County Community College 1995- 2009

·         Delaware County Municipal Police Academy 1984-1985

·         Williamson Free School of Mech. Trades 1983-1984
An expert witness, consultant, program developer, trainer and internationally recognized speaker on commercial airline flight attendant and gate personnel training, performance, safety and FAA regulatory compliance. Expert opinion and testimony experience for both plaintiff and defense cases is based on more than 38 years of experience in the commercial aviation industry.

Prior aviation positions held at a major airline: Manager of Health, Safety and Security, Inflight

Safety Investigator, Emergency Procedures Instructor for pilots and flight attendants, Station Manager, flight attendant and customer service supervisor. Served as Chairperson of an FAA supported Aviation Safety Action Program for flight attendants and a member of the Air Transport Association Cabin Operations Committee. Have spoken at several Annual World Aviation Training Symposiums, The Department of Justice JPATS Annual Training, FAA Conferences and the Southern California Safety Institute Aircraft Cabin Safety Symposiums.

Academic Background

  • Master of Science in Nursing University of Phoenix Phoenix, AZ

  • Adult Nurse Practitioner Metropolitan State College Denver, CO  


Professional Experience

Airline Flight Attendant, Health and Cabin Safety Expert -RTI Group 2022-present

Chief Executive of Cabin Safety Consultants   2007-present

  •  Educate the public and industry about aviation safety through various forums and media venues.

  •  Aviation safety training consultant and expert witness in cabin and airline safety litigation cases.


President of Health Leaders Promoting Safety (HLPS)  2007-present

  •  Perform health screening exams, safety assessments and coaching in a variety of business settings. 2007-present


Nurse Practitioner & Adjunct Faculty at various facilities in Colorado & Oklahoma. 1978-present

  • Nurse Practitioner at Integris Hospice & former NP Hospice Quality Care: perform Medicare assessments on hospice patients.

  • Nurse Practitioner at CRG Labs of Oklahoma: Perform DOT, CDL, OSHA and pre-employment physical exams.

  • Former Cardiac Nurse Practitioner at Porter Adventist Hospital, Denver: Evaluating and stress testing cardiac & TIA patients.

  • Former Occupational Nurse Practitioner for United Airlines: Performed physical exams on pilots, managers and preemployment ramp, mechanics, food service, customer service agents and flight attendant applicants.

  • Former clinical instructor for Associate and Baccalaureate degree nursing students for two Oklahoma colleges.


Manager of Health, Safety, & Security-Onboard Service, United Airlines, Chicago, IL  2004-2007

  • Principle cabin safety liaison to the Federal Aviation Administration and Transportation Security Administration.

  • Established and chaired the first major airline flight attendant Aviation Safety Action Program.

  • Manager of department responsible for investigating onboard (in-flight) emergencies, injuries and incidents.

  • Advisor and co-developer of divisional policies, training and communication venues pertaining to flight attendant health, safety and security related matters.


Airport Manager for United Airlines in Lincoln, NE and Oklahoma City, OK               2000-2004

  • Responsible for budget and manpower planning for two airports that operated 6-20 flights per day.

  • Managed 28-40 customer service, ramp, airfreight & and station control center employees. Oversaw hiring, training, performance, and safety & security related matters for two general airport operations.

  • Represented United Airlines in discussions with local airport authority, local law enforcement, the FAA, the Transportation Security Administration, union representatives, EEOC, ADA, EPA, DOT, OSHA, etc.


Supervisor of Flight Attendants and Customer Service Representatives, United Airlines    1997-2000

  • Responsible for promoting safe work practices, in compliance with FAA & OSHA regulations, while meeting on-time performance, baggage service delivery and customer satisfaction goals.

  • Co-wrote and trained Denver Customer Service Supervisors in United’s Emergency Response Procedures.


Senior In-flight Safety Investigator, United Airlines, Chicago IL.                                       1995-1997

  • Regulatory advisor to the Vice President of Corporate Safety and Security and Onboard Service Sr. Vice President in flight attendant hiring, emergency training needs, injury prevention programs and safe work practices.

  • Wrote and published Partners in Safety newsletter which was distributed to over 24,000 flight employees.

  • Raised industry and public’s level of awareness regarding turbulence injuries by producing two dramatic videos which were shown at the Southern California Safety Conference and distributed to 30 International Air Carriers.


Emergency Procedures Instructor United Airlines, Denver CO.                                          1989-1995

  • Instructed commercial pilots and flight attendants in the management of evacuations, ditching, in-flight fires, security threats, decompressions, medical emergencies, crew resource management, and the operation of UAL aircraft exits and equipment.

  • Served as a consultant to Boeing in the development of the B-777 doors and emergency equipment.

  • Created an instructor-training library composed of AV and written material from past accidents and emergency related topics.

  • The library enhanced the training of new instructors while assuring the proficiency of incumbents.

  • Developed training programs for both pilots and flight attendant management of inflight emergencies.


ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE

  • Consultant to the Army Corps of Engineers, ARCO, Exxon, Chevron, and Gulf Coast Transit. Trained tug and oil tanker ship captains in the management of offshore medical emergencies, trauma care, ship-to-shore communications and off-vessel evacuations.

  • Speaker at a number of forums, including the International Aircraft Cabin Safety Symposium, World Aviation Training Symposiums, FAA Shared Vision of Aviation Safety Conference, US Department of Justice - US Marshals Service Justice Prisoner and Alien Transportation System (JPATS), Arapahoe Community College, AT&T and Samedan Oil Company. Topics included: Cabin Aviation Safety Action Program, Managing Medical Emergencies Inflight, Aviation Safety, Flight Attendant Back Injury Prevention, Turbulence Injury Prevention, How to Travel Safely, Stress Management, First Responder Training and Behavioral Based Safety.

  • Attended Open Doors Organization Universal Access in Aviation Conference (2022)

  • Attended IATA Cabin Safety Conference (2021 & 2016) & World Aviation Training Symposium (’07,’08,’13,’14,’16,’17,‘18)

  • Attended IATA Global Accessibility Symposium (2020)


TRAINING

  • Cabin Safety Research Workshop - FAA Aerospace Medical Research Division of the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute

  • Department of Transportation & NTSB Aircraft Cabin Safety Investigation

  • Incident Response to Terrorist Bombings Awareness Training – New Mexico Tech

  • FAA Aviation Safety Action Programs

  • International Air Transport Association (IATA) 2021 & 2016 Cabin Safety Symposiums & IATA Cabin Health Symposium

  • Open Doors Organization Air Carrier Access Act Complaint Resolution Official (CRO) Recurrent Training 2021

  • Airline Ambassadors International Human Trafficking Awareness Training for Airport/Airline Personnel 2021

  • Behavioral Based Safety Principles

  • Basic and Advanced Cardiac Life Support, last renewed 2022

  • Private pilot instruction & FAA certificated flight attendant


PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

  • Former member of Airline Transport Association (aka Airlines 4 America, A4A) Cabin Operations Committee

  • American Academy of Nurse Practitioners

  • Oklahoma Nurse Practitioner Association

  • Hospice & Palliative Nurses Association: Southwest Central District Leader


LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS

  • American Nurses Credentialing Center – Board Certified Adult Nurse Practitioner

  • Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse

  • Licensed Adult Nurse Practitioner in: Arizona, Colorado, Oklahoma, Texas

  • Certified Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Medical Examiner Private pilot: inactive

Summary

Senior aviation and commercial space safety leader with more than 40 years of experience building and leading Safety Management Systems (SMS), safety risk management, and accident/incident investigation programs for major airlines and commercial space operators. Led enterprise safety programs and proactive safety initiatives, including ASAP/FOQA/flight data analysis, internal evaluation and audit programs, OSHA and hazardous materials compliance, emergency preparedness and family assistance, and coordination with FAA/NTSB and ICAO Annex 13 requirements. Experienced instructor in graduate aviation safety programs, with an engineering and MBA background and a track record of implementing scalable processes that reduce operational risk across complex, highly regulated environments.
Aerospace engineer with 25 years of experience in design and analysis of primary and secondary aircraft structure. Extensive experience using a variety of CAD software programs to create part, assembly, and repair drawings. Have experience with the following airframes: Airbus A321; Bell 205; CASA C-212; Daher Aerospace – Kodiak 100; Bombardier - Global Express 7500; Fairchild Republic – A-10; Gulfstream - GV, G550, G650; Bombardier Shorts SD3-60; Textron – Cessna - 172, Model 525; Beechcraft - Premier 390, King Air 90, King Air 200.

Academic and Training Background

  •  BS, Mechanical Engineering, Montana State University – Bozeman, Montana

  • Fundamentals of Project Management for Aerospace Professionals, University of Kansas (KU)

  • Aircraft Structural Loads: Requirements, Analysis, Testing and Certification, KU

  • Sustainment and Continued Airworthiness for Aircraft Structures, KU

  • T&E 4106 Loads and Flutter, National Test Pilot School

  • Course 21811, Aircraft Alterations and Repair, FAA

  • Course 21019, Aviation Safety Engineer/Airframe Job functions, FAA

  • Structural Integrity of New and Aging Metallic Aircraft, UCLA

  • Systems Planning, Research, Development & Engineering, Level II, DAU


Professional Experience

RTI Group, LLC.  Stevensville, MD, Aerospace Engineer, April 2024 – Present

  • Support a multidisciplinary technical services consultancy specializing in accident and

  • failure investigation serving clients representing high-exposure industries and transportation operations worldwide.

  • Senior-level mechanical, aerospace, and materials engineering objective investigations and technical audits and provide both proactive and reactive practical solutions to private and public sector clients.

  • Airframe matters with cases involving transport category (Airbus A321 and Gulfstream G500,550,650) and general aviation (light aircraft from Cessna, Kodiak, and Beechcraft).

  • Specialize in aerial firefighting mission and impact on aircraft structures, primary and secondary structure design and repair and working relationship with the NTSB.


Tern Aero LLC, Boise, ID, Owner / Engineer, June 2019 – Present

  • SD3-60 Sherpa wing rib repair, static stress analysis, and create AutoCAD repair drawings.

  • Design and generate AutoCAD drawings for medical cooler carrier assemblies.

  • Develop drawings for avionics cabinets, wiring diagrams, and WiFi installations using AutoCAD.

  • Develop static strength analysis and document results in formal stress reports.

  • Perform technical reviews of static stress reports. Recommend changes to analysis techniques where needed.

  • Calculate fatigue life on repairs to aircraft structure to meet extended service life goals.

  • MRB – Review non-conformances; provide repair dispositions with stress analysis substantiations.


U.S. Forest Service (USFS), Boise, ID, Aerospace Engineer, January 2011 – March 2019

  • Reviewed contractor aircraft airtanker mission engineering analysis to ensure airworthiness was maintained while flying on contract.

  • Managed the Operational Loads Monitoring (OLM) program for the USFS fleet aircraft and contracted aircraft. This program collects operational usage data of aircraft flying in the firefighting environment.

  • Maintained agency owned FAA Supplemental Type Certificates (STC).

  • Program manager for the Shorts SD3-60 Sherpa aircraft smoke jumping structural modification. Efforts resulted in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) STC approval under 14 CFR Part 25.

  • Collaborated with aircraft manufacturers, Textron and Bombardier Shorts, to increase safety by recommending modified structural inspection intervals based on OLM usage data.

  • Performed as a Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (Level III).

  • Developed contract specifications and statements of work.


DoD, U.S. Air Force, Hill AFB, UT, Structures Engineer, August 2004 – January 2011

  • Lead structures engineer for the aging A-10 Thunderbolt II. Provided team guidance to design and implement life-extending structural repairs to maintain fleet readiness and airworthiness. Reviewed repair dispositions to ensure they were feasible, producible, and free of errors before sending to the mechanics.

  • Liaison Engineer where I teamed with the mechanics on the shop floor of the repair to clarify engineering repair dispositions. My presence on the floor reduced the repair time of the mechanics and resulted in higher throughput.

  • Lead engineer for Interchangeability IPT and Tooling IPT on A-10 Wing Replacement Program. Successfully ensured that key interfaces (i.e. center to outer wing mating surface, wing to fuselage attach points, main landing gear attach points) of new production wings interchanged with the existing fleet.


Anteon Corporation, Fairfax, VA, Structures Engineer, October 2003 – August 2004

  • A-10 Structures engineer. Designed and performed stress analysis for repairs to damaged structure on aircraft. Wrote flap track repair and installation instructions for the A-10 structural repair manual. Required a good knowledge of manufacturing materials and their properties.

  • Compiled technical data packages for parts no longer in production to ensure vendors have a complete set of requirements to build parts from. Worked with first article test shop to ensure that parts conformed to requirements of the technical data package.


Quest Aircraft Design, LLC (Daher Aerospace), Sandpoint, ID, Structures Engineer, July 1999 – July 2003

  • Performed layout and design of primary/secondary aircraft fuselage structure, control surfaces, and calculated engine loads to meet 14 CFR Part 23 standards. Parts were sheet metal and machined structural components designed using SolidWorks.

  • Created complex parts, assemblies, fabrication drawings, and bill of materials (BOM). Performed part stress analysis by hand and using FEA for optimal design. Delegated work to draftsmen including design concepts of parts for modeling, detail drawings of parts and assemblies.

  • Wrote flap track roller contact stress analysis report and engine loads report for submission to the FAA.

  • Spearheaded company processes and procedures for designing sheet metal part flat patterns and forming dies.

  • Defined surface loft of forward fuselage and designed flap assembly fixture using SolidWorks.

Elevators and Escalators Specialist

Specialized Professional Competence 

Technical specialties are elevators and escalators, including failure analysis, troubleshooting, installation, repair, modernization, maintenance, inspection, code, and contract compliance.  

  • In the area of failure analysis, experience has focused on electrical and mechanical failures of elevator and escalator systems. These include all vintages of high-rise, high-speed multiple elevator groups, hydraulic elevators in smaller apartments and commercial buildings, freight elevators, ADA lifts, funiculars and multiple escalator systems in shopping malls, hospitals, airports, transit systems and convention centers.  



  • In the area of troubleshooting, experience has focused on determining the nature and root cause of mechanical and electrical malfunctions and failures, and redesigning / reengineering the circuitry and / or mechanisms to be more dependable and longer lasting.  



  • In the area of installation, experience includes field surveys and installation of complete elevator & escalator systems from start to finish, from single units to multiple units, including final adjustments, testing, inspections, certifications, and acceptance.  



  • In the area of repair work, experience includes the removal and replacement of a wide variety worn and damaged equipment from elevators and escalators, including creative solutions for removing heavy, awkward components that could not otherwise be accessed. Experience also includes replacing all high-wear elevator and escalator chains, bearings, cables, motors, generators, gearboxes, and hydraulic valves, pump and cylinder assemblies, cab interiors and fixtures.  



  • In the area of modernization, experience includes designing, adapting, final adjusting, and testing new components for existing systems, including new motors and drive units, doors and operators, safety and code upgrades, handicap requirements, elevator interior remodels, and computer-based logic controllers for multiple-elevators, high-rise buildings, Escalator code compliance upgrades, design, implementation & acceptance.  



  • In the area of maintenance, experience includes preventive and periodic maintenance of all types of residential & commercial elevators, including high-speed and low-speed passenger and freight elevators, hydraulic and electric traction elevators, dumbwaiters, ADA lifts, funiculars, and escalators, according to OEM and Common Carrier requirements.  



  • In the area of project management & inspection, experience includes drafting of specifications and contracts, equipment assessments, field surveys for bidding purposes, site progress inspections for portions of specific construction and modernization contract compliance, as well as final acceptance testing for specific contract specifications and scopes of work, coordination with as well as delegation of authority from the State of California Elevator Division of Cal/ OSHA, including ASME National & State code compliance issues. Performed over 1000 separate inspections. 


Education and Certifications Background 

  • Teaching credentials for National Elevator Industry Educational Program (NEIEP), 1992 ― Completed NEIEP Level 1 Teaching Seminar.  



  • Journeyman Elevator Mechanic, International Union of Elevator Constructors, Mechanic (I.U.E.C. Local #8), Union member for 20 years. ― Completed 18 of the 22 NEIEP educational courses offered.  



  • Certified Competent Conveyance Mechanic, State of California, since 2003  



  • City of Los Angeles Certified Elevator Mechanic, since 2009  

  • Business Curriculum at Indian Valley College (Novato, California) 


Professional Experience 

National Elevator Industry Educational Program – Technical Training Instructor  

(September 1992 to 1999)  

Courses instructed include:  

  • Mechanics Exam Preparation and Review Course  



  • Circuit Tracing and Troubleshooting  



  • Basic Electricity  



  • Construction Wiring  



  • Doors and Operators  



  • Escalators  



  • Hydraulics  



  • Elevator Hoist Cable Replacement  


Bay Area Rapid Transit District  

2/98 - 8/01: Hired into the Engineering Department to draft specifications for new and renovated elevators and escalators; Quality control testing and inspections; Progress inspections, verifications, and acceptance for 300 renovated elevators and escalators; Provide technical support for in house technicians; Coordination with State agencies for code enforcement inspections and permits; Common Carrier compliance.  

8/01 – 8/18: Promotion to Section Manager: In addition to the above, supervise system-wide elevator and escalator repair and modernization personnel; Lead inspector for testing and acceptance of new and renovated equipment system-wide; Coordination with State agencies for acceptance of all elevator & escalator equipment. Staff expert witness / PMK for Bart elevator / escalator litigation. Responsible for 180 escalators and 140 elevators. Engineering support for new stations, modernizations; Common Carrier compliance.  

7/95 – present: Expert Witness / Consultant  

Provide expert witness testimony to various law firms, insurance companies and building owners regarding a wide range of elevator & escalator related issues; designated an “expert” in this realm multiple times before live courtroom juries in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Deposed on at least 80 occasions as an expert. Expert status never disputed.  

Armor/KONE Elevator Company, San Francisco, CA (June 1989 to July 1995). Armor Elevator Company merged with Montgomery/KONE in the fall of 1994. Star Elevator Company, Redwood City, CA (July 1987 to June 1989). Atlas Elevator Company, San Francisco, CA (June 1984 to July 1987). Journeyman Elevator Mechanic (I.U.E.C. Local #8)  

Responsible for service, troubleshooting, repair, construction, and modernization of elevators and escalators, including duties as a foreman.  

Armor Elevator Company (January 1979 to September 1983). Elevator Mechanic’s Helper (Member I.U.E.C. Local #8)  

Assisted Journeyman in service, repair, modernization, and adjusting departments of major Elevator / Escalator Company.  

Armor Elevator Company (February 1978 to January 1979). Atlas Elevator Company (September 1976 to February 1978). Supervisor’s Assistant, Purchasing Agent, Parts Department, and Fleet Manager  

Responsible for ordering and cost-effective delivery of inventory for six repair crews and 12 service technicians. Personally performed major and minor service of 20-vehicle fleet. 
Spine and orthopedic expert with over 20 years of experience, providing the latest nonsurgical, interventional, and surgical treatment options to patients with spinal diseases, disorders, and injuries.

Academic Background

Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide South Australia                        2000 - 2001

Neuro-Orthopedic Spinal Fellowship

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Hanover New Hampshire             1996 - 2000

Orthopedic Surgery Residency

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Hanover New Hampshire             1995 - 1996

General Surgery Internship

University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville Virginia           1991 - 1995

Doctor of Medicine

University of Virginia College of Arts & Sciences, Charlottesville Virginia            1987 - 1991

Bachelor of Arts (Chemistry)
A forensic documentarian and advanced imaging expert with 30 years of experience in field evidence photography and site documentation. He supports senior engineers and scientists throughout all phases of investigation by producing clear, accurate photographic and video records that enhance field efficiency and help control overall costs. His work spans commercial and general aviation, industrial hazards, product liability, patent disputes, utility accidents, and failures. 

Academic Background 

  • NTSB Academy – Advanced Accident Site Photography, 2004 



  • Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, BFA – College of Imaging Arts and Sciences, School of Photographic Arts, and Sciences, 1995 



  • Anne Arundel Community College, Annapolis, MD May, 1990-1991 



  • The Key School, Annapolis, MD, 1991 


Professional Experience 

  • Director of Advanced Imaging, RTI Consulting, LLC, Stevensville, MD 21666, 2026 to present.  



  • Freelance Photographer Annapolis, MD Professional Photography, Video and Digital Services, 2021-2026.  



  • President, JR Imaging, Inc. Annapolis, MD, Professional Photography, Video and Digital Services, 1996 – 2021. 



  • Forensic Documentarian and Associate Investigator, RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, 2004 to 2026. 



  • Photographer and Videographer, Reynolds Technologies International, LLC (rti), wholly owned subsidiary of FTI Consulting, Inc. 2003 – 2004. 



  • Consulting Photographer/Videographer, FTI Consulting, Inc., Annapolis, MD, Litigation Support Documentation (Intellectual Property, Personal Injury, Product Liability), Washington, DC, 1997 – 2021. 

Forensic Expert 11356 is a distinguished multi-disciplinary expert and senior executive with over 25 years of experience across the litigation, claims, and manufacturing industries. As the Chief Operations Officer of RTI Group, LLC, Forensic Expert 11356 provides strategic leadership and technical oversight for several of the firm’s most advanced divisions, including the Imaging Sciences Group, the Unmanned Aircraft (UAS) Program, Digital Electronic Evidence services, and the RTI Laboratories & Evidence Inspection Programs. His career is defined by a unique ability to merge high-level operational management with hands-on investigative technicality.

Executive Leadership and Strategic Oversight


In his capacity as COO and Program Director, Forensic Expert 11356 has been instrumental in evolving RTI’s service offerings to meet the demands of modern litigation. He founded the Imaging Science Group in 2003, pioneering the use of video and imaging forensic analysis, animated accident reenactments, and complex illustrations for patent infringement and high-profile cases. Furthermore, holding a master’s degree in Broadcast Design and Motion Graphics from the Savannah College of Art and Design, Forensic Expert 11356 specializes in visualizing complex technical matters, translating intricate data into interactive designs and graphic communications that are essential for successful litigation and settlement outcomes. His leadership extends to the development of RTI’s Digital Electronic Evidence services, where he oversees critical operations involving network security, metadata acquisition, and the analysis of digital mobile devices. Under his guidance, the firm has expanded its reach into the research and development of risks and hazards associated with Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the aviation and utility sectors.

Marine Investigative Expertise


A National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) Certified Boat Accident Investigator, Forensic Expert 11356 possesses a profound depth of maritime knowledge rooted in over 35 years of experience on the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. His expertise encompasses the full lifecycle of vessel management - from hull repair and electrical upgrades to engine maintenance and fleet operations. As a member of the American Boat & Yachting Council (ABYC), he applies industry-standard building and safety protocols to complex marine investigations. Forensic Expert 11356 is frequently called upon to lead field investigations involving collision dynamics, electric shock drowning (ESD), fire and explosion analysis, and injury assessments for both power and sailing vessels.

Pioneering Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)


Recognizing the potential of emerging technology early on, Forensic Expert 11356 organized RTI’s Unmanned Aircraft Program in 2010. He played a pivotal role in the industry’s regulatory infancy, providing expert guidance from the perspective of first responders and investigators. This work led to the development of RTI’s UAS Laboratory Risk Mitigation Testing, supporting the FAA Part 107 Waiver application process. Today, he utilizes UAS technology for precision scene preservation, 3D photogrammetry, and the inspection of large-scale assets, ensuring that investigators have access to perspectives that were previously unattainable.

Construction Management and Creative Visualization


Complementing his investigative work is a robust background in commercial construction. Since 2009, Forensic Expert 11356 has served as a site supervisor and architectural designer for commercial properties exceeding 50,000 square feet. His 15 years of experience in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems allows him to provide comprehensive mechanical roof damage inspections and building failure analysis.

Academic Background and Professional Certifications


Forensic Expert 11356 holds a Master of Arts in Broadcast Design and Motion Graphics and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interactive Design and Game Development from the Savannah College of Art and Design. His technical foundations are supported by professional certifications in Photography, Videography, and Graphic Design from Anne Arundel Community College.

His professional credentials include:


  • NASBLA: Certified Boat Accident Investigator




  • HAAG: Certified Mechanical Damage Roof Inspector




  • IAAI: Fire Investigation certifications (NFPA 1033/921)




  • Ocean Systems: dTective Certification in Video/Imaging Analysis




  • US Sailing: Keelboat Skipper Certification





He currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Departments of Forest Biomaterials (Wood and 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.