Rick grew up in a southern West Virginia coal camp. He proudly served his country in the Marine Corp, graduated from college, and was a teacher and coach, and EMT.

Rick has 44 years of mine rescue experience (both metal/nonmetal and coal) and has extensively participated in mine rescue contests, mine disasters, and team training. He was awarded the Tri-State COAL SAFETY LEADER award, is a certified WV mine foreman, a mine rescue instructor, shot firer, and belt examiner.

He is a member of the American Society of Safety Engineers, American Management Association, International Safety Academy, National Fire Protection Association, National Mine Rescue Association, National Mining Association, WV Coal Association, Holmes Safety Association.