Matthew’s love of water and nature began at an early age bodysurfing with his father in the Gulf Stream of the Atlantic. After many twists and turns (and some good hard knocks) life led him to the southwest, and eventually, the Pacific Northwest where he has called home for 15 years.

At age 35, Matthew left the corporate world and swiftly dove headfirst into the world of whitewater. Matthew recently transitioned from residential carpentry into a clinical mental health counseling program. In his limited free time, he enjoys practicing mindfulness, playing in nature, being humbled by weather and smelling and identifying wildflowers. He first volunteered with First Descents in 2017 and has been on many programs as a kayak instructor. The weeks he is able to spend with FD are truly the highlight of his year.