I was born and raised in the Town of Maine, where I learned the values that still guide me today—hard work, humility, and always looking out for your neighbors. At the age of 12, I started working on local farms. Those early mornings and long days taught me the meaning of earning your keep and the pride that comes from doing a job right.
As a kid, I spent hours listening to my grandfather’s war stories. He didn’t just talk about battles—he talked about service, sacrifice, and the importance of standing up for your community and country. He taught me to care deeply for others, to put my neighbors’ needs before my own, and to live with integrity. His lessons stuck with me.
When I was 19, I moved out of my parents’ house and into Vestal. That move was a turning point. Supporting myself through hard work and dedication gave me a deeper appreciation for what it means to build something of your own. In 2010, I bought my first home. A year later, I married Jennifer Buchek, and together we started our family—welcoming our first child in 2012 and our second in 2013.
Family is everything to me. Jennifer and I have always believed in being active participants in our children’s lives, especially through youth sports. Whether it’s cheering from the sidelines or volunteering our time, we’ve made it a priority to support the programs that help shape our kids and strengthen our community.
Professionally, I’ve dedicated my life to advocating for the working class. As a union president representing both blue- and white-collar employees, I’ve fought for fair wages, fair contracts, and respectful labor-management relationships. I’ve made sure every voice is heard and every worker is represented. That’s not just a job—it’s who I am. It’s my life’s work.
Now, I’m ready to take that same fight to the next chapter: serving my community as a member of the Vestal Town Board. I’ll bring the same grit, compassion, and commitment I’ve shown in union halls to Town Hall—ensuring that every resident has a voice, and that our local government reflects the dignity and respect our community deserves.
