Joe, the Co-Founder of Dads of NWA, was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona before he relocated to Northwest Arkansas in 2006. Throughout the years, he has been an active contributor to non-profit organizations and has built an impressive career at industry giants such as Tyson Foods and Walmart.

As a proud alumnus of the University of Arkansas, Joe holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. His professional path has also seen him become a trusted Realtor in Northwest Arkansas, where he continually strives to meet the needs of the local community.

In 2010, Joe’s personal life took a beautiful turn when he met his wife, Hailey. Together, they embarked on the rewarding journey of foster parenting, providing care for individuals with developmental disabilities. Two of these individuals were later adopted by Joe, one of whom, tragically, passed away in 2021 after nearly a decade of being part of Joe’s family.

Joe’s unique journey as a parent includes his two biological children, two international foreign exchange students, and his brother-in-law, whom he took under his wing after his mother’s passing. His experiences as a father in various capacities have been both deeply fulfilling and profoundly life-changing.

Presently, Joe contributes his expertise and passion to the Board of Directors for the Arkansas Support Network, the state’s largest provider of Medicaid Waivers and community supports. When he’s not immersed in work or volunteering, Joe cherishes quality time with his family. He also enjoys traveling, attending sporting events, and exploring the hidden treasures of Northwest Arkansas. Through his diverse experiences, Joe truly embodies the spirit of Dads of NWA, consistently demonstrating a readiness to lend a hand and support his community.

Logan Hood, found his home in Northwest Arkansas (NWA) at the age of three. Residing in Springdale and Tontitown, he became well-acquainted with the local community and built strong ties with the region. After completing his schooling in Springdale, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Systems and Technology Management from the University of Arkansas. His academic credentials paved the way for his successful career in HR systems and Data & Analytics, where he has been making significant contributions for the past decade.

In 2016, Logan’s personal life blossomed when he married his childhood friend, Tiffany, who he first met in kindergarten. The couple is now blessed with three beautiful children. Logan’s diverse experiences as a father and his deep-rooted connection to the NWA community inspired him to devote his time to organizing events for Dads of NWA. He also actively participates in various community service initiatives, extending a helping hand to those in need.

Outside his professional and community commitments, Logan has a passion for mechanics and outdoor activities. He often spends time in his garage, tinkering with cars, or exploring the scenic trails of NWA on his bike. Visiting his parents’ farm and enjoying the outdoors with his family also rank high on his list of favorite pastimes. Currently, Logan is leveraging his extensive knowledge and passion for community service as an integral part of our Board of Directors. His deep understanding of the local community and his dedication to serving them are invaluable assets to our organization. Logan truly epitomizes the spirit of NWA, consistently demonstrating a readiness to support his community and make a positive impact.

Vamshi Gupta, born and raised in Hyderabad, India, is a quintessential part of our Dads of NWA Board of Directors. He relocated to the United States in 2013, specifically settling within the XNA region three years later. Vamshi has built a commendable career as an IT Infrastructure Architect for a leading supply chain company in the region.

As with many of our Board members, Vamshi’s journey with Dads of NWA started from a place of need, specifically seeking a car mechanic recommendation. This need led him to discover a vibrant community that quickly became an extended family for him, especially being thousands of miles away from his native country. Vamshi’s Indian roots instilled in him a love for movies and tinkering with computers. These passions, coupled with his professional background, give him a unique perspective that he brings to our community.

When Vamshi is not immersed in his work or contributing to our community, he savors quality time with his family. His experiences as a father and an immigrant have been both deeply fulfilling and profoundly life-changing. Vamshi’s story embodies the spirit of Dads of NWA, demonstrating the power of community and the importance of lending a helping hand.

Charles Hilligrass was born and raised in Albany, NY. In pursuit of his career goals, he relocated to Bentonville, Arkansas, joining many others who have recognized the burgeoning opportunities in this thriving area. Charles boasts a comprehensive background that encompasses managing businesses and navigating the corporate landscape, honed through a significant portion of his career at IBM. His expertise and leadership skills propelled him to a trusted position overseeing the company’s global IT services.

Currently, Charles is making strides at Kyndryl, where he is tasked with developing and managing IT solutions and leading dedicated teams to support customers in this sector. Throughout his professional journey, Charles has cultivated a deep passion for mentoring individuals, helping them unlock the potential within themselves. He frequently shares, “”There is nothing quite like witnessing the world opening up for someone as they take their first step toward a new direction in life.”” Outside of his professional endeavors, Charles cherishes the moments spent with his family. These experiences are the bedrock of his life, bringing him immense joy and fulfillment.

Charles also finds great satisfaction in working on cars and computers, viewing these activities as a fascinating intersection of art and science. Whether he’s fine-tuning a vehicle for peak performance or troubleshooting a computer glitch, Charles takes pleasure in solving problems and enhancing functionality. These hobbies not only provide a sense of accomplishment but also serve as a therapeutic escape, allowing him to unwind and refresh his mind.

Through his personal experiences, Charles has learned that life brings its own set of challenges, but they can indeed be overcome. He understands that people occasionally need a helping hand, and he is committed to providing support and sharing messages of hope. He firmly believes, “”Things can and will get better,”” and he strives to be a beacon of encouragement for others on their journey towards a brighter future.

Charles has been a resident of Cave Springs for the past decade. He shares his home with his wife, Brooke, and their two daughters, Sage Pilar and Rumi. Throughout his years in Northwest Arkansas, Charles has built an impressive resume as the owner of Infinity Blue North America, a company dedicated to creating a seamless and equitable global trade marketplace. Before his venture into global trade, Charles entrenched himself in the agricultural sector. He owns and operates a rice and soybean farm in southeast Arkansas, a family legacy that spans over a century. His extensive 19-year background as an estate planner for large farms further solidifies his deep-rooted connection to the land.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Charles serves on the advancement council of Thaden School, where his daughters are currently enrolled. He is an avid supporter of quality education and community development in his local area. Charles’s love for the outdoors extends beyond his farming activities. He is an enthusiastic fly-fisherman and enjoys exploring the natural beauty of Northwest Arkansas. His written works, which include a variety of articles, books, and blogs, often revolve around improving quality of life, emphasizing his commitment to fostering a healthier, happier community.

Charles’s life is a rich tapestry of diverse experiences. His journey, both personally and professionally, embodies the spirit of our organization. He consistently demonstrates readiness to lend a hand and support his community. Charles takes pride in calling NWA his home and is committed to making a difference in the lives of those around him.

Wes Crainshaw was born and raised in Bella Vista, Arkansas. He is an avid outdoor enthusiast with an unwavering passion for biking and exploring the natural beauty of Arkansas. Wes is also a devoted father to his delightful six-year-old daughter, who infuses his life with joy and happiness.

Spanning a 15-year career at Walmart, Wes held a variety of positions in the realm of pharmacy replenishment. This vast experience enabled him to transition smoothly into his current role at a Dallas-based pharmaceutical company. Much like his adventurous spirit in the outdoors, Wes possesses an insatiable desire for professional growth and personal development. Wes’s journey mirrors that of many fathers in our community. His unique blend of professional ambition and personal adventure makes him a representative figure in the Dads of NWA. He is always eager to connect with others, sharing experiences and encouraging one another on this shared journey of fatherhood.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Wes remains deeply committed to his role as a dad. In his spare time, he enjoys embarking on biking adventures, exploring the scenic trails of Arkansas, and most importantly, spending quality time with his daughter. Wes’s balanced approach to fatherhood and professional life is testament to his commitment to both his personal and professional growth.

Wes’s journey is a testament to the spirit of the Dads of NWA, demonstrating a readiness to embrace new experiences, contribute to the community, and inspire others with his dedication to fatherhood and professional excellence. His story is one of adventure, ambition, and the beautiful complexities of fatherhood.

Cesar Torres, who has been a proud resident of Northwest Arkansas (NWA) for 26 years, is an active member of the Dads of NWA Board of Directors. Cesar moved to NWA at the tender age of 8 and instantly fell in love with the community. Cesar works as a Senior Analyst at Walmart. His work involves collaborating with numerous suppliers and assisting them in redistributing their products globally through Walmart eCommerce. This role not only showcases his professional acumen but also his commitment to fostering a global community.

Away from his professional responsibilities, Cesar is a dedicated family man. He relishes the time he gets to spend with his family, particularly watching his son play soccer. His passions extend to traveling and exploring diverse cuisines, reflecting his adventurous spirit and openness to different cultures.

Cesar is driven by a desire to create an inclusive community within NWA. He is passionate about integrating diverse backgrounds, making NWA a welcoming place for people worldwide. With NWA’s growth, he is dedicated to assisting new dads unfamiliar with the area, embodying the spirit of Dads of NWA. When he isn’t working or spending time with his family, Cesar often finds himself involved in the community. His personal commitment to enriching NWA mirrors the dedication of his fellow board member, Joe. Like Joe, Cesar is an advocate for positive change in the community and continually seeks opportunities to lend a hand.

With his diverse experiences and compassionate heart, Cesar Torres truly encapsulates the spirit of Dads of NWA. He is a beacon of support within the community, consistently demonstrating his readiness to contribute and make a difference.

Tyler Smalling was born and raised in Lavaca, Arkansas. His journey took him from his hometown to the United Kingdom and Texas when he joined the Air Force at the age of 24. His dedication to service led him to Springdale, where he and his wife initiated their careers after his military service came to a close.

A proud alumnus of American Military University, Tyler boasts a master’s degree in business administration, acquired while serving his country. This educational foundation has propelled him into a successful career with industry leaders Tyson Foods and Nestle, two of the globe’s foremost food and beverage companies. His multifaceted expertise spans Transportation / Supply Chain, Accounting, Product Management, and Sales, through which he currently caters to the United States Military worldwide.

In 2012, Tyler’s life was enriched by his marriage to his wife, Lyndsey. The couple’s family has grown to include four children – one girl and three boys – who keep their lives full of joy, excitement, and a fair share of busyness with their various activities. Tyler is often found coaching his children in their pursuits, with baseball being a favorite pastime.

Tyler’s commitment to service extends beyond his military career. His leisure time is spent enjoying hunting, attending sporting events, outdoor family activities, working on his trucks, contributing to his community, and exploring new travel destinations. His broad range of knowledge and experiences are invaluable assets to the Dads of NWA community and beyond.

Dusty, a native of Iowa, relocated to the Joplin region after completing a year of college in his home state. He further pursued his education at Crowder College in Neosho, where he first met his wife, Michelle. The couple, now married for 21 years, have been blessed with five children – Chandler & Paisley, whom they cherish in heaven, and their three angels on earth: twins Kanon & Remington, aged 8, and Violet, who is soon to turn 4.

Having completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Management at John Brown University, Dusty has carved out an impressive career in Supply Chain/Replenishment for Campbell’s Snacks. His role involves managing the Walmart and Sam’s accounts, ensuring the consistent supply of products to stores and clubs for the benefit of consumers.

Dusty’s passion extends beyond his professional life. He deeply values quality time with his family, particularly coaching his twins in baseball, football, and softball. He is also an enthusiast of outdoor cooking, often seen firing up one of his three Big Green Eggs. In memory of their first set of twins, Dusty and Michelle founded their own non-profit organization, Chandler and Paisley Skies. This endeavor reflects Dusty’s dedication to his community and his commitment to promoting quality fatherhood.

Dusty’s life experiences have allowed him to connect with the mission and values of the organization on a deep level. His unique journey as a father, coupled with his professional expertise and community involvement, make him a valuable asset to the Dads of NWA Admin Team.

Trent was born and bred in the heartland of Iowa, before transitioning to Northwest Arkansas at the age of 10. As a father of three, Trent has always held a deep-seated passion for paternal rights, a cause that led him to establish The Father’s Rights Movement (TFRM) of Arkansas and co-found the Arkansas Advocates for Parental Equality.

Professionally, Trent has carved a niche for himself in the commercial pest control industry, providing exemplary service with Rentokil. His career journey stands as a testament to his commitment to hard work and excellence, mirroring the dedication he brings to his advocacy work. Trent’s personal and professional life intersect in his relentless pursuit of equal rights for fathers. His experience as a father and his passion for justice have fueled his involvement in these movements, making a significant impact on the community of Northwest Arkansas.

Outside of his career and advocacy work, Trent cherishes the time spent with his three children. Trent’s journey, much like his approach to life, is emblematic of his dedication – whether to his profession, his advocacy work, or his role as a father. Through his various roles, Trent truly encapsulates the spirit of Dads of NWA, constantly exhibiting a readiness to support and uplift his community.

Brian, a native of Joplin, Missouri, relocated to Northwest Arkansas in 2011 following the devastating tornado that claimed his hometown. As a resilient individual, he rebuilt his life in Northwest Arkansas, where he founded the successful Access Lock & Key company in 2004. His expertise in the locksmith industry led him to acquire a competitor in 2024, further solidifying his position in the business.His professional journey has seen him become the preferred locksmith for the renowned Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, thanks to his passion for riding his 2023 Harley Davidson Road Glide STL.

A personal highlight for Brian has been his role as a father to his two daughters and his beloved dog, Petunia. As someone who tragically lost his own father at the age of seven, Brian cherishes the opportunity to provide guidance and love to his children. His unique parenting journey, coupled with his love for lego building, has provided him with countless fulfilling moments. In his leisure time, Brian enjoys exploring the scenic routes of the Black Hills in South Dakota on his Harley. He also finds solace and inspiration in visiting Mount Rushmore, one of his favorite places. His hobbies and interests offer a perfect balance to his busy professional life.

As an integral member of the Dads of NWA Admin team, Brian brings his resilience, business acumen, and dedicated parenting skills to the table. His life experiences have equipped him with a unique perspective and a deep desire to contribute to his community. Brian embodies the spirit of Dads of NWA, consistently demonstrating a readiness to support and uplift those around him.

Steven, a dedicated member of the Dads of NWA admin team, was born in Carson City, Nevada, before relocating to Northwest Arkansas when he was merely 5 weeks old. Being deeply rooted in the community, Steven has made NWA his lifelong home. Steven is a proud family man, being happily married to his wife, Hannah, and being an attentive father to their seven children. His commitment to his family is a testament to his dedication to fulfilling the responsibilities of fatherhood.

Prior to his current role as a heavy equipment field mechanic, Steven had an impressive career in public service. His time spent with the fire, police, and EMS has not only honed his skills but also instilled in him a deep sense of community service. These experiences have shaped his perspective and enabled him to better understand the needs and challenges of local dads.

Outside of work, Steven enjoys spending quality time with his family and indulging in shooting sports. His commitment to ensuring the well-being of his family extends to his wish to support other dads in the community. He is determined to equip local fathers with the resources they need to provide for their family, as well as to take care of their mental health.

Steven brings this same dedication and passion to his admin role in the Dads of NWA group. His unique journey as a father and his commitment to the community have made him an invaluable asset to the community. Through his various roles, Steven truly embodies the spirit of Dads of NWA, demonstrating an unwavering readiness to support his community and ensure that all dads have the resources they need to thrive.

Caleb, born and raised in Oklahoma, relocated to Arkansas in 1992. His move was precipitated by his father’s attendance in the music ministry at John Brown University. This move would later shape his love for the outdoors and the community he now calls home.

Caleb’s career spanned various sectors, including transportation and healthcare, where he served in hospice, home health care, and skilled nursing facilities for over a decade. This breadth of experience ignited his desire to give back to his community in a new and profound way. In pursuit of this goal, Caleb established Turner Works, a Christian-owned and operated company specializing in Tree Service, Stump Grinding, and Landscaping. The company’s mission mirrors Caleb’s personal philosophy—to leave everything better than he found it.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Caleb is a dedicated father of two, an avid outdoorsman, and a passionate participant in church activities. His hobbies include fishing, football, golf, and exploring the natural beauty of Arkansas.His commitment to service extends beyond his business. Caleb believes in serving others through love and prayer, demonstrating his faith through his actions. This ethos is embodied in his role on the Dads of NWA Admin team, where he continues to make a positive impact on his community.