Meet Eric with K9 Smoky:

Name: Eric
Name of K9's: Smoky (Rat Terrier)
Discipline(s): plans to pursue live find (area search), UAS/Drone Search Support (in training)
How you got started with SAR/how long you have been involved: Eric was introduced to the Southwest Florida K-9 Search Unit through a friend who invited him to visit a training day. What began as a casual visit quickly developed into a passion for search and rescue, and he has remained active ever since.
Personal Credentials: Originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Eric brings a diverse professional background and a lifetime of hands-on experience to the team. His work history includes pool and lawn care, fiber optics, carpentry, general handyman services, industrial electrical work, welding, and diesel automotive mechanics. He currently assists with Air Operations Inc. and volunteers at the Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Expo. Eric is also expanding his SAR capabilities by training in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS/drone) operations and working with Smoky in live-find search disciplines.
Favorite activities when not participating in SAR:When he's not training with Smoky or supporting search operations, Eric enjoys aviation-related activities, learning new technical skills, working on mechanical and construction projects, spending time outdoors, and relaxing with his wife, three dogs, and two cats in San Carlos Park.
Fun Fact! Eric combines his love of aviation and search and rescue by training to use drone technology in SAR missions, giving him the opportunity to assist search teams both on the ground and from the air. Smoky may be small, but he has a big personality and an even bigger work ethic when it comes to training!