Hailing from Western North Carolina and having an interest in the outdoors from an early age, David studied Recreation Management and Experiential Outdoor Education at Appalachian State in University. He became certified as a WFR in 2002 and has maintained that certification to present. Professional David has worked in various Outdoor Recreation programs through the US Military's MWR program around the world. In 2012 he started up an adventure company, Kanto Adventures aimed at providing human powered adventure recreation opportunities and mountaineering instruction in the Tokyo area of Japan for locals, expats, and inbound travelers. He also leads regular international treks and expeditions to various areas in the European Alps and the Himalaya.