About Me
BORN TO WRITE
I started freelancing for the Journal Inquirer, Connecticut's evening newspaper, before I began college. I sold my first cover story to the Hartford Courant around the same time. The Journal Inquirer hired me as a full time reporter soon after and encouraged me to supplement my natural writing talent with a formal education.
EDUCATED TO WRITE
I began my academic journey at Manchester Community College and ended it at the University of Hartford with a masters degree in Communications. I'm certified in crisis communications by the National Transportation Safety Board, and I adhere to the writing guidelines in the Associated Press Stylebook.
TECHNICAL BACKGROUND
For 15 years I worked as an aerospace inspector at Hamilton Sundstrand (now Collins Aerospace) as an American Society for Quality (ASQ) certified mechanical inspector. I also wrote inspection and test procedures for Pratt & Whitney before being promoted to quality manager of the Small Hardware Parts Center at P&W's engine center. While there, I served as a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Organizational Airworthiness Representative.
MARKETING BACKGROUND
While at Pratt & Whitney I moved from quality control into the role of marketing director for the Engine Alliance, a joint venture of Pratt & Whitney and GE Aviation. I managed all marketing activities for the GP7200 engine for the Airbus A380 for four years. Later, I served as marketing manager for North America's largest machine tool distributor, Morris Group, Inc. and its subdivisions, Tsugami America, Technical Equipment, and MP Systems.
PERSONAL
I live in Connecticut with my husband, Don. My hobbies include downhill skiing, roller skating, bicycling, hiking, and waging war against insects in my organic vegetable garden. I served on the board of directors for the Manchester Community College Foundation for eight years. I love all animals!