I am a metalsmith currently living in Valdez, Alaska. My introduction to metals came from an early job as a dental technician where I was trained to make teeth out of gold, learning metalworking fundamentals. Later, while living in Alaska in the mid-90’s, I attended a local community learning silversmithing workshop. This class combined with my earlier metals training sparked my serious exploration into jewelry making. Since then I have continued to learn through classes, workshops, and mentorship with some of our country's best metalsmiths. I also draw inspiration from 20 years of working in the field of architecture; years spent both before and after my jewelry making journey began.