I started out as the first employee at Neuvana, tasked with bringing an idea into a reality. Less than a year later we won an innovation award at CES, where we unveiled a proof-of-concept to demonstrate an innovative new approach to wellness – transcutaneous electro stimulation of cranial nerves. In 2020, we released our next generation taVNS device to the general public and have since helped countless people achieve calm, sleep better, reduce anxiety and attain a sense of balance. My mandate during this time was to bring us from a small group of founders to a world-class consumer biotech company, and we have succeeded! Now, onward to the next challenge...

My engineering career got underway at a green, nanotechnology startup that was capable of separating water molecules from a contaminated environment. The company, Dais Analytic Corporation, was located in the Tampa Bay, Florida area and it was here that I:• Designed and conducted tests on new and experimental parts and assemblies; analyzed data and made recommendations based on the results; documented standard testing procedures• Performed membrane characterization of various polymers (including Dais' signature Aqualyte) as well as enthalpic testing of existing and prototype Dais ConsERV cores• Successfully completed a 16 month ARPA∙e (DoE's Advanced Research Projects Agency) program that demonstrated membrane-based dehumidification, March 2012• Established and ran the quality control testing of Dais ConsERV cores, which included implementing a serial number tracking system, constructing a pressurized, cross-flow performance testing station, and generating weekly reports that included pass/fail rates, productivity data and other important KPIs• Modified, maintained, repaired and operated the NanoAir and NanoClear prototype demonstration units

My job at the YMCA was an interesting undertaking. I was able to give back to the community by volunteering my time as a personal trainer and simultaneously working at the front desk selling memberships. By no stretch of the imagination did I picture this would be my first place of employment as Wayne Clough (then President of Georgia Tech) was handing me an engineering diploma, but it was a worthwhile experience. I had a great time and met a number of unique people from a variety of different backgrounds.

The sophomore effort of my part-time career, beginning in high school and lasting thru the bulk of college, was at Party City of Atlanta. During my 6 year stint, I:• Gained knowledge of how to operate effectively in a retail environment• Led small teams of peers in accomplishing store projects• Advised and assisted customers with all aspects of their party planning needs• Developed a strong sense of company loyalty over the multi-location, multi-year span which I was employed• Became a Certified Party Professional in May 2006Yes, I was indeed a "balloon boy." In all honesty though, I considered myself fortunate to have employment I considered entertaining and enjoyable as opposed to a banal job to which I had to drudgingly report.

My part-time career launched alongside the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia. I sold concessions and cooked dogs and burgers on the grill, just outside of Centennial Olympic Park. Working my first job in the heart of the city, in the middle of the excitement and Olympic atmosphere, was a unique, challenging, rewarding, and memorable experience.