About Us

Michael has dedicated his life to public service, beginning at age 15 as a volunteer law enforcement explorer (cadet) with his local police department, where he served for more than five years and attained the rank of Sergeant.

He began his fire service career in 1993 as a Volunteer Firefighter with the North Bend Fire Department in Oregon while studying Fire Science at Southwestern Oregon Community College. He later served as a Firefighter/EMT with the Millington Rural Fire Protection District (now Central Coos Fire & Rescue) and as a Volunteer Firefighter with the Coos Bay Fire Department. Through service in these communities, Michael developed a strong appreciation for the impact of engaged volunteer fire service.

From 2000 to 2006, Michael served as a Volunteer Youth Pastor and Assistant Pastor and led international mission teams to Mexico and Australia. During this same period, he served as a Shop Steward for his local union, representing coworkers in disciplinary matters, grievances, and contract negotiations.

Michael joined UFCW Local 555 as a full-time staff member in 2006 and currently serves as Executive Director. In this role, he oversees negotiations for approximately 180 collective bargaining agreements covering more than 30,000 workers across Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Wyoming, and helps supervise a staff of over 30 employees.

In 2015, Michael joined Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue and became a member of the Tualatin Valley Volunteer Firefighters Association. He was elected Secretary in 2016, serving three consecutive terms, and was elected President in 2022 and re-elected in 2024.

Michael has been married to his wife, Christy, for 26 years, and they have two children, Ledger and Hadley. As a family, they are active in community events, including Toy & Joy and other local activities. In their spare time, they enjoy traveling, watching sports, and attending Portland Winterhawks and Hillsboro Hops games.