Growing up in Holland, Michigan, I have been on the water my entire life. I acquired my Captain's License at the age of 20 and started Reel Talk Sportfishing, a charter fishing operation in Holland, Michigan. My wife and I spent two winters in Islamorada, Florida, where I worked as a first mate aboard the Kalex at Bud and Mary's Marina. Looking for new challenges, I attended The Landing School in Arundel, Maine, and graduated from their course in Marine Surveying. Thus, RT Marine Surveying was born. I am Accredited Marine Surveyor #1391 with SAMS (Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors.) I am also a Standards and Marine Systems Advisor with the ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Counsel.)