Professional Philosophy

While each of my life experiences has made me a better writer, the most valuable lesson of my technical writing career came while working on a report detailing entanglement simulations of jump-related fatalities where paratroopers had utilized a T–11 parachute or its reserve and recommended emergency malfunction procedures. As a new technical writer for U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground, I completely changed my approach to technical communication after reading William Howard Taft’s famous words, “Don’t write so that you can be understood, write so that you can’t be misunderstood,” by chance in the style guide. With those serendipitous words, I instantly understood the gravity of my report and how it would be used to inform the recommendation for the T–11 parachute system moving forward. But moreover, how a misunderstanding of my proposed procedures could have fatal consequences to the Warfighter.

I have carried Taft’s words with me on every assignment since that day. I am constantly challenging myself to make the simple simpler, be a consummate listener, avoid technical jargon that hinders understanding, and be concise AND precise. My quest to become a more effective communicator started at the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a graduate certificate in Technical Communication and continued with my master’s coursework at Purdue University, School of Engineering and Technology. These supplement many areas of my professional work like project management and engineering. In addition, coursework in advanced research approaches and measurement and evaluation in industry ensures that I can become a better user of workplace data. This heads off misunderstandings and ensures that key takeaways remain intact even when writing for multiple audiences—the ultimate goal of an exceptional technical writer.