Growing up next to LAX in El Segundo, the self-proclaimed "Aerospace Capital of the World," peaked Mark's interest in aviation. Initially, his plan was to become a commercial pilot - he started flying at 19, and became a FAA licensed private pilot with an Instrument Rating, as well as an airframe and powerplant mechanic. His career path changed to aerospace where he first worked at Northrop Corporation in El Segundo, then Douglas Aircraft in Long Beach. Then he began a lifelong career in Avionics Sales, working globally with numerous major airlines, aircraft manufactures and militaries, as well as regularly attending airshows and aviation conferences. Mark's employers included: Grimes Aerospace (Honeywell), BE Aerospace (THALES), and Teledyne Controls. In 2020, he retired after working in aviation for 40+ years. In 2022, he returned to work in a "temporary" avionics sales assignment as a European Sales Director.

From Mark's illustrious career in aerospace evolved his interest in historical research, particularly of the South Bay. He has been a board member of the Hermosa Beach Museum since 2003 as well as a board member of the Manhattan Beach Historical Society for one year. He has been responsible for events, doing historical research and making presentations. We are very fortunate that Mark has graciously offered to share with us his knowledge of the history where we live.