Bret has been working with the ISSG since 2008 and has been involved in every aspect of the research performed by the group. Bret also works directly with Dr. Shay Bess in Denver at the Denver International Spine Center where he is also involved in research with HCA. He started in the world of spine research in 2004 when he was the biomechanical research engineer for the late Dr. Thomas Lowe. His training as a mechanical engineer has given him a unique perspective into the spine and how it is treated, but his interests are broader than just the mechanical aspects, including medical economics and health outcomes.