In what city did you grow up?
I grew up in a small town called Sleepy Eye, Minnesota. While I left after high school, I still have family there and visit when I can.
What book has had the greatest impact on you?
I would like to say the Bible, but it likely was the Catechism that pushed me toward the Bible. Learning about God and my faith made me the man I am today, guided by values and the desire to do good.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I grew up on a family farm and enjoyed seeing crop dusters flying. That piqued my interest in aviation. When I was in high school, I put all of my savings toward ground and flight school and earned my private pilot’s license. The excitement of flying and experiencing aviation first-hand solidified my love of the industry.
What do you actually do at your job?
I report directly to the Fort Wayne-Allen County Airport Authority. It’s my responsibility to oversee the operations, business and development of both FWA and SMD (Smith Field Airport). I am fortunate that the Authority has an awesome employee team that works hard every day to make the northeast Indiana airport system the very best it can be.
What was your first job?
My first job was in 5th grade. I walked up and down rows of bean fields and pulled weeds. It gave me the opportunity to work on my tan!
What is your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment is my family. My wife of almost 35 years and I were blessed with three daughters, who all now have families of their own. Our eight grandchildren keep us busy and are a joy in our lives.
Who is your hero?
My dad. He taught me how to work hard, prioritize faith and family, and laugh whenever you can.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
There are two sayings that sum up my biggest pet peeve: “It’s not my job” and “This is the way we always do it.” Not working as a team or complacency can be specifically frustrating. Not working to make things better than how you found them is something I do not understand.
Do you have a motto you live by? If so, what is it?
Work hard to leave the place better than when you found it.
If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to cast as you?
I don’t think we have to worry about Hollywood making a movie about me anytime soon, but if for some reason they did, a younger Dennis Quaid might have done a good job. Or, heck — I’d give it a shot. How hard can acting be?
What would you choose as your last meal?
Does ice cream qualify as a meal?
What three items would you want with you if you were stranded on a desert island (other than food and water)?
I was never a boy scout, but I consider myself resourceful. I would bring a tent, a knife and perhaps a canoe or boat (to get un-stranded).
Who would you like to see perform in concert?
Jimmy Buffett!
What profession would you never try?
Friends and family have suggested that I never be a chef.
Name one person who has inspired you in your life.
My wife is an inspiration to me. She puts others first, works incredibly hard and is the model of kindness.
What is one important skill you think everyone should have?
Having the ability to forgive.
What is the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten?
Pickle-flavored cotton candy.
If you received enough money to never need to work again, what would you spend your time doing?
I have a couple of hobbies, one of which is beekeeping. If I had more time I would likely increase my hive count.
When was the last time you cried and why?
During my speech at my last daughter’s wedding. I really tried not to.
What is something that never fails to make you laugh?
Slapstick comedy. “Naked Gun,” “Pink Panther,” “Get Smart,” etc.
Do you have a nickname?
Not necessarily. Some people call me by my given name and others call me boss, honey, dad or grandpa.
Describe yourself in three words.
Honest, innovative and family-oriented.
What is the first movie you ever saw in a theater?
I believe the first movie I ever saw in a theater was “Star Wars,” but going to the theater was a rare occasion — I grew up on a farm. It’s wild that even after all these years there are still new Star Wars movies being made and shown in theaters.
What famous person would you most like to meet?
I’m not one to get star-struck, so the only real answer would be Jesus of Nazareth.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is contributing to an impactful place that makes northeast Indiana a better place. There is always a lot going on at the two airports, which makes work exciting. I also enjoy thinking of new ways to make improvements and maximize our positive impact on the community.
What do you love most about Fort Wayne?
Fort Wayne has big-city amenities with a small-town feel. People are friendly, helpful and always striving to make the community better. Fort Wayne has something for everyone of all ages whether it’s enjoying a ball game at Parkview Field, biking on one of the many trails or exploring new dining options.
What is your dream job?
I have my dream job. I have always wanted to be involved in the aviation industry. Specifically, working at a respected airport in a leadership role was my goal.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party (living, dead, famous, real or fictional)?
Just me and my dad. A good meal and a beer on the front porch would be perfect.
If you had a time machine, where and to what time period would you travel?
I think a little into the future — it would be fun to see what my grandkids become.
If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?
Not just one place, but a plan for different places that I’ve not yet been.
What does your workout regimen consist of?
I enjoy playing pickle ball with my wife, as well as biking and an occasional run.
If you could give your 15 year-old self advice, what would it be?
Life moves very fast, so enjoy both the big and the little things. I think I got this advice back then, but at 15 I may not have been a good listener. It sure makes sense now that many years have passed.
What is the best gift you have ever been given?
That’s a tough question. I have been very blessed. I’ve been married to my best friend for 35 years and she keeps me balanced, so I guess the gift of marriage fits well.
What was the last gift you gave someone?
Christmas gifts to our grandchildren.
What is the most productive time of day for you?
I am a morning person and enjoy getting the day started early.
What gets you excited and driven to achieve?
Starting something new and making it successful.
What do you collect?
I actually try hard not to collect too much stuff. Being clean and organized helps me stay relaxed.
Do you have any guilty pleasures? What are they?
Ice Cream and more ice cream!
