I am a proven entrepreneur and business owner, leader and problem solver, with more than 25 years of experience in the manufacturing, energy and food industries, as well as the military, positions including operations, engineering, project management, construction management, sales, general management, business strategy, M&A and business integration, P&L management, executive leadership, and new project development. I am passionate about US energy and food security, I engage with venture capital and private equity to better understand investments and project developments as I support business owners with start-up, growth, expansion, and exits. I have executed and supported 9 M&A deals and currently help business owners plan their exit and help connecting them with potential buyers. I own and operate a family horse and beef cattle ranch where my sons and brother support the business. I am a veteran pioneer and supporter in localizing food and energy supply chains by building agriculture and energy infrastructure in the US. I am an Army veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom where I led a platoon of soldiers in combat in 2004-2005, and received a bronze star for acts of valor as well as numerous other commendations for my actions and service. I served honorably for 8 years, both active and reserve. I now serve on veteran non profit boards to aid veterans transitioning to their next career field, with a focus in agriculture. I have conducted business in many different countries and was successful at adapting and thriving in multicultural environments. Countries included:Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Trinidad and Tobago, Singapore, Kazakhstan, Peru, UAE, India, Canada, Chile, S. Korea, UK, Italy, Germany, Norway, Portugal, and Taiwan.