I am an Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, currently teaching American Politics and National Security courses at the United States Air Force Academy.  I hold two Master of Arts degrees in Political Science, one from American Military University and one from the University of Florida, where my major fields were American Politics. I also hold a Master of Science in Strategic Intelligence degree from National Intelligence University, where my major field was International Relations and my thesis was awarded the NIU Research Award for the best thesis in the entire university. 

My current research interests include the intersection of domestic policy and national security, state legislatures (polarization and party loyalty), and political campaigns. My work has been published in the Air and Space Power Journal, the Journal of International Affairs, the American Intelligence Journal, and CSIS' Issues and Insights. I also have several published book projects, to include American Defense Policy (9th edition), Culture Shock: Leadership Lessons from the Military's Diplomatic Corps, and The Small Business Owner's Guide series of books. 

While deployed to Afghanistan, I started a small-business selling first-of-its-kind cinnamon packets. They're perfect for cinnamon enthusiasts on the go!