After almost 17 years, I couldn’t stay away any longer.
I graduated from Livingston High School in 2006 before earning my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in photography with an emphasis on communication design from Texas State University. During my time as a Bobcat, I met my beautiful wife, Alicia. We moved to Leander, just north of Austin, where our daughter, Kynlie, was born.
Following four years of working for a high-volume school and sports photography business in Austin, I helped start a new photography company in the Beaumont area. I jumped at the chance to get closer to home.
I spent eight years working with schools, many from across Sam Houston Electric Cooperative’s service area, to provide photography and yearbook services as the director of operations and co-owner. It was a pleasure to play a part in the important moments of so many people’s lives. Our family was also blessed with the birth of two sons, Jude and Walker, during that time.
Through all the good times, it still wasn’t quite home.
While searching for a position that would provide a chance to grow professionally and spend more time with my wife and children, I was told about a job listing at Sam Houston EC. I couldn’t get my résumé together quickly enough.
A lot has changed in Livingston since I moved away 17 years ago. But one thing has definitely remained the same: the family spirit and hometown feeling I’ve never experienced anywhere else.
Outside of work, my favorite hobby has always been woodworking, thanks to Mr. Donald Boler. He taught me lessons in two years of high school wood shop class that have stayed with me for years, and he is a Sam Houston EC member. Every time I finish a project, I run my hand over the surface and hear him say, “Do you think that’s good enough, or does it need another coat?”
It almost always needs another coat.
I plan to bring that same diligence and care to our members and employees through the Sam Houston EC Communications Department. While I may be new to the role, it seems so familiar to me because of the amazing people that I get to interact with every day.
I am excited to see a lot of familiar faces, and I look forward to getting to know new people. I look forward to sharing photos and stories about the Cooperative and our community with you all.
If I am not at work, check the lake or the deer lease, as I plan to take advantage of being back home and all the great opportunities our community has to offer!
