In 1977, I had a strong interest in "Star Trek", which was rerunning on TV at that time. From my model railroading skills, I thought that I'd write and self-publish small booklets on how to build the Trek model kits (StarFleet Assembly Manuals). I forced myself to learn electronics, writing "how-tos", and page layout and design. The Franz Joseph "Star Fleet Technical Manual" was a great, exciting influence! These became popular books, and at one time I met Gene Roddenberry on a plane back from a Seattle convention, who complimented my work as "not amateur by any means". In 1977, no one had put fiber optic and lighting into Star Trek models, and, this was definitely a "first", that's led to an entire industry today of Trek models with lighting kits. My work on these books lead to meeting artists and designers in Star Trek, including Andrew Probert, Doug Drexler, Geoffrey Mandel, Mike Okuda, and Mark Stetson. Visits to Paramount Studios would follow with some truly amazing first-hand experiences!! It was my friendship and mentoring by Andrew Probert that most influenced my design work. He introduced me to the secrets of the subtlety of color and shape and refined design. I owe Andy very much for his influence.