Doug brings a wide range of practical and instructional experience to his work. He spent more than 10 years as an EMT/Paramedic and 13 years as a Physician Assistant, with experience in emergency medicine, family practice, occupational health, and service as a U.S. Coast Guard Reserve Assistant Medical Officer. Alongside his medical career, he has been working hot iron since 2007.
Since 2013, Doug has taught blacksmithing through the Boy Scouts of America, 4-H, state and national conferences, and in his own shop in St. Augustine, Florida. During that time, he has introduced more than 1,500 youth ages 18 and under to blacksmithing, along with hundreds of adult students. He has also worked with veterans’ groups and has made a point of accommodating students with physical limitations, reflecting his commitment to making the craft accessible to a wide range of learners.
Doug has been actively involved with both the Florida Artist Blacksmith Association, an educational nonprofit, and the Artist-Blacksmith’s Association of North America. He has taught at both the state and national levels and has collaborated with smiths throughout the United States and Europe.
In addition to his work in medicine and blacksmithing, Doug has substantial camping and backcountry experience through his years with the BSA. He also maintains a 43-acre farm in northwestern North Carolina, which he is constantly trying to keep one step ahead of chaos—no easy task from 10 hours away.
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