Keith grew up in a small community nestled in the central Coast Range of Oregon. He spent his youth hunting, fishing, and in many other outdoors activities. These pursuits instilled in him a great love of the outdoors and Oregon.
Keith began his working career in the timber industry. He held many positions in this field including; pulling green chain in a lumber mill, hi-lead logging, cat and skidder logging, timber falling, tree planting and controlled burns.
In 1991 Keith decided to go to college and received his Associates Degree in Water/Wastewater technology from Linn Benton Community College in 1993. At this time he and his family headed east to Central Oregon, ending up in the Redmond area.
Keith began his Water/Wastewater career at a small private utility in Bend, he soon moved on to employment with a small city in the area. Keith was hired as a Utility Worker I, doing everything from working in the ditch laying water and sewer pipe to operating the equipment for excavation. During his time with the city he moved up the city ladder to Wastewater Department Supervisor and eventually to Utilities Supervisor; overseeing the water, sewer and storm water departments.
Keith comes to OAWU after retiring from his city career. He is eager to begin this new adventure with the OAWU team and share his knowledge with other team members.