I have more than three decades in general, cardiovascular and thoracic surgery as well as certification in Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine. As a well-respected clinician, educator and organizational leader, I have been a member of and held appointments with The American College of Surgeons, North Carolina Surgical Association, The Southern Surgical Society, The Society for Thoracic Surgery and The International Surgical Society. In addition to many years of clinical experience, I have also succeeded in multiple practice settings as a single practitioner to larger multi-specialty clinics. As founder of The Charlotte Cardiothoracic Surgical Group, Rick is well-versed in the requirements for growth of a successful practice and professional career. I have been actively involved in education and leadership roles, serving as Assistant Clinical Professor of Surgery for the Department of Vascular Surgery at UNC/Chapel Hill, Medical Director for Carolina Wound Care Center, Physician Training Faculty member and Area Medical Director for Diversified Clinical Services. I currently serve as an executive physician coach with MD Coaches.