Mike earned a Bachelors of Science degree from Frostburg State University, in Maryland, in education with a specialization in U.S. History.  He went on to be an elementary school teacher before joining the fire service.  Mike joined the Baltimore City Fire Department, where he has been for 17 years.  During his time with Baltimore, he has earned numerous MFRI certifications, has been promoted to Fire Apparatus - Driver/Operator, and is the Acting Lieutenant for one of the busiest truck companies on the east coast.  In addition to this, Mike is also an adjunct instructor tasked with developing and teaching progressive truck company tactics.  Mike assisted with the revision of the Baltimore City Truck Company Operations manual.  In addition to his career in Baltimore, Mike also worked with the Firefighters Support Foundation and is the coordinator of training for the Ocean City Fire Department.