ONE OF US
My story begins with family and service. My parents met in New London and started our family far from their hometown because my father enlisted in the United States Army. Although my parents divorced when I was in second grade, one thing never changed—our family stayed close. From an early age, I learned that while circumstances may shift, family and community are what sustain us.
I am a proud graduate of the New London Public School system. In 1989, I entered the workforce and earned my Journeyman’s license from the State of Connecticut. Like many working families, I did what I had to do to make ends meet—holding two jobs at once. In 1995, I left construction to run Pizza Works in Old Saybrook full time, a job I loved. But when my wife was laid off and our family was at risk of losing health insurance, I returned to construction—because family comes first.
PROVEN LEADERSHIP
In 1997, I joined Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 40 and worked on projects large and small across our region. In 2006, I was hired through my union by the Hillery Company and became certified to weld on projects for Electric Boat. Using the skills I gained as both a tradesman and a small business manager, I worked my way from lead installer to shop foreman, and in 2016 was promoted to Vice President—a role I continued to serve in until retiring this year.
My commitment to public service began locally, serving a combined nine years on Groton’s Representative Town Meeting and Town Council. In 2015, I ran for State Representative for the 41st District and was honored to serve three terms. I ultimately stepped back when the demands of work and legislative service became too great—but my commitment to public service never wavered. I am running for the 18th Senate District with a clear understanding of the time and responsibility the role requires, and I would not be doing so if I were not prepared to fully serve.
COMMUNITY VOICE
I was first inspired to run for office because addiction became personal for my family. When my son struggled with addiction, I saw firsthand how our state was failing families in crisis. My wife and I helped found Community Speaks Out to connect people struggling with addiction to treatment, support, and hope. Today, I proudly serve as its President and continue to dedicate much of my time to helping families navigate recovery.
On December 11, 2016, our lives were forever changed when we lost our son. He was shot and killed while coming to the aid of a woman being beaten by her boyfriend. Though he passed before I was sworn into office, he was by my side throughout the campaign—helping, encouraging, and celebrating our victory.
Today, our daughter and son-in-law have blessed us with two beautiful grandchildren. It is their future, and the future of all families in our community, that drives me to run for the 18th Senate District.