Personal:
I believe the only way to succeed is to work hard, continue learning and don't make the same mistake twice. If you are not making mistakes it usually indicates you are not trying new and different things resulting in stagnated poor performance. The majority of my childhood was spent growing up in poverty while living in a government housing project. I started working in the family business at the ripe old age of eleven. I know, not legal age to work, but family circumstances made it a necessity instead of an option. The business "survived" for 5 years and then I went to work (legally) at a local grocery store. Upon completion of high school I went to work for a building materials company in Pelham, Alabama.
I met my future wife, Linda, in November of 1971. We met at a funeral (the parents of a girl that I had dated before and the current college roommate of my future bride), had two dates, talked over the phone the remaining nights, and got married after the grand total of NINE days. As soon as she proposed, I accepted (just kidding and did I mention she has great tolerance for my sense of humor) and it has been like the Forrest Gump quote of "peas and carrots".
The best way to provide for my family and earn an education seemed to be to join the U.S. Air Force. After enlistment, I was trained and worked as an aircraft avionics technician. While enlisted, I earned the Master Technician rating and became a USAF Master Instructor. I earned my college degree while continuing to work full time and go to college nights and weekends for nine years. The second half of my career in the USAF was as a commissioned officer. I held jobs as Weapons Director, Intercept Coordinator, Senior Director, Director of Operations, and USAF Aggressor. While stationed near Panama City, Florida I decided to continue my education. I had a limited amount of time before reassignment so I attended a branch campus of Troy University near Ft. Walton Beach, Florida. This required me to drive 175 miles per day for 5 days a week and sometimes 6 to attend classes for 2 years while working full time. It was well worth it even though it was demanding.
I started my training and consulting company over 14 years ago and have never looked back. I love helping my customers reach their potential by learning or refining their skills.
For many years I have embraced the concept of continual learning as a means of self improvement. I am currently splitting my time among a few ongoing personal projects. Just to give you a better picture of how I am applying this principle here are few of the projects.
Past Projects: Current Projects:
Private Pilot Certification Private Pilot Instrument Rating
Japanese Language Fluency Spanish Language Fluency
PADI Scuba Diver Certified Business Analyst Professional Certification
Project Management Professional Certification Certified Speaking Professional Certification
Golf Handicap Reduction Phase I (decrease of 10)
Golf Handicap Reduction Phase II (decrease of 5)
Annapolis Sailing and Navigation Proficiency Course