About Me

Data scientist with an M.S. from CU Boulder and 20+ years of operational leadership in high-stakes environments — from combat deployments to the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad.

Career Timeline

2026
M.S. Data Science
University of Colorado Boulder
Completed a rigorous graduate program covering statistical modeling, machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and data engineering. Built a portfolio of applied ML projects including BERT-based NLP models, CycleGAN image generation, and production-grade analytics dashboards.
2024 – 2026
Graduate Research & Projects
CU Boulder — Data Science Program
  • Developed a BERT fusion architecture for predicting Rotten Tomatoes critic scores from screenplay text
  • Built CNN and transfer learning pipelines for histopathologic cancer detection (84.8% accuracy)
  • Trained CycleGAN and DCGAN models for Monet-style artistic transfer (Kaggle Rank 20)
  • Created an end-to-end Falcon 9 landing prediction pipeline with interactive Plotly Dash dashboard
  • Designed and built the Prop Trading Dashboard — a full desktop analytics app with TypeScript, React, and SQLite
2020 – 2024
Diplomatic Security & Operations
U.S. Embassy Baghdad, Iraq
Led high-risk security operations at the largest U.S. Embassy in the world. Managed cross-functional teams responsible for personnel protection, threat assessment, and emergency response in one of the most complex operating environments on the planet. Held an active Secret security clearance throughout tenure.
  • Coordinated security logistics for diplomatic convoys and VIP movements
  • Managed real-time threat intelligence reporting and risk mitigation
  • Led teams across multiple nationalities and agency partnerships
  • Developed operational planning frameworks used across the mission
2017
B.S. Business Management
Portland State University
Earned a bachelor's degree in Business Management while transitioning from military service. Developed a foundation in organizational leadership, operations management, financial analysis, and strategic planning.
2004 – 2020
U.S. Army — Infantry & Operations
United States Army
Over 16 years of active service in the U.S. Army with multiple combat deployments. Progressed from infantry soldier to squad leader, responsible for the training, welfare, and tactical employment of soldiers in high-pressure environments.
  • Led infantry squads through combat deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan
  • Planned and executed tactical operations with zero tolerance for failure
  • Trained and mentored junior soldiers in leadership, discipline, and technical skills
  • Developed expertise in operational planning, risk assessment, and team coordination

Education

M.S. Data Science
University of Colorado Boulder
2026
Graduate coursework in statistical modeling, machine learning, deep learning, NLP, computer vision, data engineering, and experimental design. Capstone projects applying ML to real-world prediction and classification tasks.
B.S. Business Management
Portland State University
2017
Foundational coursework in organizational leadership, operations management, financial analysis, and strategic planning. Developed analytical thinking and structured decision-making skills.

How I Work

Rigorous Validation

Two decades in zero-failure environments taught me that assumptions kill. I validate at every stage — from data quality checks to cross-validated model evaluation.

Clear Communication

The best model is useless if stakeholders can't act on it. I translate complex results into clear, actionable recommendations — a skill refined by years of briefing decision-makers under pressure.

Structured Planning

Every project starts with a plan. I break complex problems into phases, define success criteria upfront, and build in checkpoints. This approach comes directly from military operational planning.

End-to-End Ownership

I don't hand off problems. From data collection to model deployment to stakeholder presentation, I own the full pipeline. That accountability mindset is non-negotiable.

Open to data science roles, collaborations, and consulting opportunities.

Get in Touch