During that time, I assisted in fire investigations with the department and really began to realize the scope and the duties of a fire investigator.

In 1996 I became an intern investigator with Pyr-Tech Inc. a private fire investigation company. I became certified as a fire investigator in Illinois after completing the State Arson Modules course in 1998. I attained the rank of full time investigator in 1999 and soon became IAAI- CFI certified through the International Association of Arson Investigators.

I was promoted to the rank of Engineer with the Fire Department in 1999 and moved to the rank of Captain in 2007. I was promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief in September, 2012 and I currently hold that position today. I was appointed Supervisor of the Belleville Fire Department "Fire Investigation Unit" in November of 2012, managing eight other certified investigators. 

I have also attended the Expert Witness Testimony Course, at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland. I graduated from the State Arson Investigators class at the Illinois Police Training Academy in 2004, receiving awards for the highest academics, and best marksmanship. I have attended numerous training conferences and classes in the field of fire investigation over the years and will continue to do so to gain further knowledge and expertise in this every changing field.

To this date I have investigated approximately 1400 fires for the fire service and insurance industry. I have testified in civil and criminal courts of law, and have been qualified as an expert witness. I am well known as an investigator in the fire service and insurance industry in and around the St. Louis Metropolitan area. I continue to make contacts outside of the Bi-State area, which assists me in gaining pertinent information needed for a complete investigation.

My goal as an investigator is to be thorough, detailed, and concise using the scientific method and systematic approach to report the facts of each incident. I will never compromise my morals or integrity. My opinions will be based on the physical facts of each fire scene and my training, education and experience as a fire investigator. As the industry changes, I will continue to learn through training, in efforts to put forth the best available opinions to my clients.