I grew up in Stratford, Ontario where I attended elementary and high school.  After high school, I began my studies at Nipissing University in North Bay.

 

During my summers, I worked as a fishing guide at a fly-in resort on the Albany River.  It was the best job a university student and fishing enthusiast could ever dream of (the fishing was amazing). 

 

                            

 

I graduated in 2004 with an honours degree in Environmental Geography.  The following September, I enrolled in the Bachelor of Education program, also at Nipissing University.  There I met my future wife, Danyele.  She grew up in Owen Sound. 

I graduated with my Bachelor of Education in May, 2005.  Danyele and I accepted teaching positions in Fort Albany, a tiny, fly-in reserve on the coast of James Bay.  We were engaged that summer before we embarked on our adventure in the North. 

 

 

Danyele and I taught in Fort Albany for two years.  During that time, I taught grades 7 and 8 math and phys ed, grade 9 and 10 science, grade 9 phys ed, and grade 12 leadership.  Our time in Fort Albany was challenging and exciting.  We were immersed in a new culture (First Nations Cree) and got the opportunity to try many unique and fascinating experiences.

 

           

 

       

 

Danyele and I were married during the summer of 2006 in Owen Sound.  We decided to move back to the Owen Sound area in July 2007, after spending 2 years in Fort Albany.