With family roots deeply embedded in farming, carpentry and blue-collar America, Gary, along with his sister and brother, joined the military to start a new chapter. Gary began his career as an Avionics Technician in the U.S. Navy, working on F/A-18 fighter jets, specifically on countermeasure equipment. He also spent one year on the Funeral Honor Guard as a Team Leader performing final services for both veterans and active-duty members.

In 2012, Gary left the military and began a four-year stint as a semiconductor Field Service Engineer with Axcelis Technologies. The systems he worked on were a vital step in the chip-making process. From there, he decided he wanted to pursue a more fulfilling career and help like-minded veterans in the pursuit of civilian positions. In 2015, Gary switched to a career in military recruiting, where he was a Rookie of the Year candidate.

After embracing the philosophy, “If you can’t beat them, join them,” Gary joined Lucas Group in 2018. Working with high-caliber military talent throughout the area, he strives to form strategic matches that benefit all parties. With a keen ability to understand his candidates’ skill sets and abilities, he helps them to navigate the process of returning to the civilian sector. In his role, Gary enjoys the fast-paced environment that recruiting offers and having the ability to positively affect his candidates’ lives. He also likes being able to tailor his own personal job description, direction and endeavors to more closely align with what his candidates want and need.

Gary spends his free time with his wife and three children and is involved in their school and summertime activities. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Technology Management as well as an MBA from St. Leo University and is a long time Miami Dolphins fan.