Age: 39. Birthplace: Waimea, Kauai, Hawaii. Profession: Internet service provider. Organization: Nomad Internet. Title: Chief Executive Officer.
Current project: Taking my company, Nomad, back to its roots of providing rural internet to last mile customers and those left behind by traditional ISPs. Recent recognition: In PR Newswire, for the launch of Nomad Cube, a cost-effective option for rural and traveling nomads that does not compromise on either speed or quality. Latest contribution to others: Served as the Executive Director of the Seattle Women’s Jazz Orchestra from 2019 - 2022 and as a band member from 2015 - 2022. Hobbies: Working with new and exciting technologies, always trying to find a faster modem. I’m also a long-time member of Audi Club North America and enjoy connecting with other enthusiasts, attending events, drives and HPDEs. Recent travel or adventure: Brought a Nomad modem to Harrison Pass, outside of Palmer, Alaska and was happy to report it worked. Also, a road trip through North Cascades National Park to Kelowna, BC for a car club event. With my modem in tow, of course. Recently viewed and recommended: Fastest Woman On Earth. Recent unique acquisition: Became the caretaker of my late friend’s beloved East German helicon tuba. Also, a limited production car that I have been restoring to its original glory for the past two years.
What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Realist. What is your guilty pleasure? Good barbecue. What word or phrase do you use far too often? No way. What natural talent have you neglected? Musicianship. What is at the top of your bucket list? Tail of the Dragon. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? Working internet.
What was your first paying job? Worked at a Boys & Girls Club. What was your favorite childhood toy or game? Without a doubt, my computer. What movie have you repeatedly watched? The Transporter series. Besides your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life? My grandmother and Great Aunt Helen. My grandmother worked for 46 years as an executive secretary at the same company and, while I have never met a more stubborn person in my life, her work ethic was second to none. My Great Aunt Helen devoted her life to taking care of her family and serving others and showed me the importance of knowing your roots. What’s the best advice you received in your career? Delegate. What modern technology innovation do you most appreciate? Instant messaging. What is your favorite app? YouTube. What is your go-to source of creative inspiration? Going for a drive to put my thoughts together. What world event has had the greatest influence on your life? 9/11, which taught us that all that time is finite and we never really know what the next day will bring.
What is your big idea?
Bringing rural internet to every home in America
What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field? Connecting the unconnected, bridging the gap and pushing for internet in every home. What message do you want to send out into the world? You only live once.
As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? A military musician. After your loved ones, what object would you first save from your burning home? My laptop. Definitely, my laptop. What advice would you give your younger self? Stop overthinking things and just do it. What period in your life would you do differently, if you could? My early twenties.
Personal mission: To bring reliable access to the internet to homes and businesses who need it most.
