I've been the prop master for Cornell University's Department of Performing & Media Arts since 2001. In that time my responsibilities have evolved to include scenic painting, set design, technical direction and project management as well as teaching. Over twenty years I've worked with a wide array of guest directors, designers, artists and have taught and trained hundreds of students.
I'm a life long builder and maker. Starting with drawing, building model cars and obsessing over screen-accurate Halloween costumes to my love of the original Star Trek and Star Wars, my interest in props and design has continued to evolve. I spent many years as an actor/stand-up comic while also being the guy who built the prop gags for our shows. Out of that experience came professional opportunities to work as a prop master and fabricator.
My substantial range of construction and craft skills include carpentry, welding, sculpting and painting, working in a wide variety of media and materials. While my array of skills is considerable, I'm always open to and continually learning new ones. In that vein, while working full time, I completed a master's degree in Cornell's prestigious Industrial & Labor Relations School which has increased my understanding of how to manage a workplace successfully and enhanced my skills as a leader.
What I enjoy most about entertainment production is the fast-paced environment, the collaborative problem-solving and improvisational skills required and the spirit of comradery, all of which are crucial for success in production. I take pride in completing our work efficiently and affordably, while producing a high-quality product. As a longtime prop guy, I embrace the idea that attention to detail is vital and subsequently, I'm a compulsive list maker. Yet I always approach the work with a low-key sense of humor and fun since ultimately what we're doing is not Rocket Surgery . . .