A leader both in business and in sport, Mike thrives on stress & draws on his experience as an air traffic controller,
business executive, mountain guide and EMT to be able to make rapid, critical decision making in
the most demanding environments. Extensive record of completing difficult tasks in a variety of settings.
Nationally ranked ultrarunner in the 100-mile category. 'When others tire or give up, I'm just getting warmed up.'
I pursue the most difficult challenges I can find.
Graduated top male in high school class of 549 (1977. 17th overall). AA in business administration and awarded Dean's Honors List (1981).
Graduated third in class of 500 at the FAA Academy (1982). Selected to work the Houston Specialty of Houston ARTCC.
This specialty handles the busiest air corridor in the world. The only controller to ever work a full 25+ years in this area
without having an error.
Developed many sidelines while working as an air traffic controller. Elected to the board of directors of the Houston
chapter of the Mercedes Benz Club of America (1986-88). Started a woodworking business (1988-91). Ran a mountaineering
gear business and acted as a manufacturer's rep (1991-1995). Volunteered as an EMT (1995-1997). Created and became CEO
and chief guide of Fresh Air Adventures (1996-1999). Developed an online auction business (2000-2002). Recruited by
Lowbid.com to become their COO & Executive VP (2003). Published the Hiker's Hotline (1990-2000). Began a publishing
business - Mikewoodbooks.com - (2004-Present).
As an air traffic controller: Selected to work in Houston & Austin Specialties – the two areas that handle the busiest air corridor in the world.
The only controller to ever work these areas and achieve a 25-year error-free record. The number one requested trainer
in the area. Expert at multi-tasking. Holds the record for most planes worked at once (50 by Entap count). 25+ years of
exceptional ratings, awards and commendations. Developed new procedures to reduce workload and/or improve safety. Preferred CPC for CIC position. Holds a current US Gov’t top secret security clearance.
As an EMT: 2 years volunteer work as an Emergency Medical Technician at Cypress Creek Emergency Medical Services.
Worked as a team member and saved numerous lives.
As a CEO: 3 Years as a Chief Excecutive Officer & Chief Guide at Fresh Air Adventures. Motivated and led large
groups to achieve goals under difficult and occasionally life threatening conditions. International operations (U.S.
and Mexico). Precision time scheduling – 100% record of getting everyone back on time. 100% safety record.
98% success rate of motivating clients to achieve a new personal altitude record.
As a COO and Exec VP:. Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President at Lowbid.com. Resposible for
developing business model, determining viable product lines and features, marketing strategies, policies, procedures
and site design.
Personal:
1993: World record holder – Speed ascent of Popocatepetl, Mexico.
1994: Participant world's toughest race (The Barkley).
2002: Attempt for the world record on the John Muir Trail in California (262 mile version).
2004: 2nd attempt for the record on the John Muir Trail in California.
2004: Nationally ranked ultrarunner (100-mile category).
2007: Participant world's new toughest race (Nolan's 14 - supplanted The Barkley).
Multi-lingual: english, arabic, spanish, plus some Russian and Farsi. Also, HTML.
Happily married for over ten years with two children (5 & 8).
Hobby: Three dimensional design and construction from concept to finished product.
Example of woodworking design and construction.
Example of castle with working drawbridge Example of deck