James Island Forever.

Born and raised just up the road in St. Matthews, South Carolina, I spent most summers in the Lowcountry, where I developed a strong attachment to the sands of Folly Beach and a vibrant marsh, teeming with life.

But then I left my home state for the University of Notre Dame (a family tradition), followed by a career in the construction and power tools industry. And while fulfilling, the success I enjoyed during my time in corporate delayed my dream of a permanent return to the Lowcountry. From the day I left, all I wanted was to get back to the salt air.

So upon establishing our own successful small business, Calavera Tool Works, my wife Marie and I made our way back to James Island with our four children (Francie, Mary Katherine, Patrick and Rose) in 2018, where they have thrived in the classrooms and ballfields of this wonderful community.

And now you couldn’t drag me away from here if you tried. I’m here forever.

Community Engagement

James Island History Commission - 2023-Present – Commission Chair (formerly Co-Chair) responsible for planning and tracking key projects focused on promotion of James Island’s rich history, including onsite events at Fort Johnson, Driving Tour of James Island, Historic Markers, Historic Marker Video Series, and soon-to-be-announced Pinckney Park Memorial, among others. 

Education

University of Notre Dame
Undergraduate 1996
MBA 2004

Work Experience

Calavera Tool Works – 2015-Present – Founder, owner and chief maker at handmade leathergoods business, with products including aprons, handbags, belts and more. Established 2015.

Over 15 years in corporate America, including 8+ years as Vice President of Marketing, Product Management and Training for Festool North America, manufacturer of premium power tools for the construction and woodworking market. Responsible for annual marketing budgets up to $7-8M, resulting in growth from $12M to $90M from 2007 to 2015.

  • The important things

    When it comes to the important things, James Island already has it all. Together, we can preserve it. And we can make it even better.

  • Strength in Community

    James Island greatest strength is its strong neighborhoods and communities. Everyone stepping up in times of need.

  • History all around us

    James Island overflows with history. As Chair of the History Commission, I’m dedicated to spreading the word and celebrating it all.

  • Our greatest resource

    I know my way around the creeks (yes, even Governor’s Cut). And I’ll protect your fishing spots like they were my own.

  • Founder & Chief Maker - Calavera Tool Works

    As a small business owner, I understand the value of every single dollar. I’ll bring this mindset with me to Town Hall.

  • So many stories to tell

    On James Island, there’s history around you. And I will continue my work to build awareness for every bit of it. I’ll even wear a funny hat.

  • Not afraid of a little weather

    If you live on James Island, you know how to handle a little weather. Like a walk in the park.

  • Works well as a team

    As I tell my kids when they’re the only ones reeling em in… when one person succeeds, we all eat.

  • Semi-Pro Sandbagger

    Like I was born to shovel, give me a pile of sand and some bags and I’ll handle the rest. In times of need, we all step up.

  • Already engaged

    As Current Chair of the James Island History Commission, I jump at any chance to tell the story of this great place.