My name is Mark Lightner. I was born and raised in Brevard County, and it’s the only place I’ve ever called home.

I grew up here going to school, working local jobs, and spending most of my time outdoors or with family and friends. I graduated from Viera High School, earned my Associate Degree from Eastern Florida State College, and later my Bachelor’s Degree in Business from the University of North Florida.

Professionally, I’ve worked in the heavy equipment industry supporting America’s space and defense operations. That work has included selling and managing projects for custom transporters, the large crawlers that move rockets for companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin. These same systems also support the movement of Naval vessels and other heavy infrastructure.

More importantly, I’m a husband and a father.

My wife, Karina, and I are raising our 2-year-old daughter and 11-month-old son. Most days look like family routines, work, and trying to soak up time with our kids while they’re still little. Our family enjoys visiting the zoo, stopping by local coffee shops, and going to church. Our home church is St. John the Evangelist.

Growing up in Brevard County gave me a deep appreciation for hard work, personal responsibility, faith, family, and community. Those values were instilled in me by my parents, teachers, coaches, employers, and countless people who invested their time and energy into helping me succeed.

This community has shaped every part of my life, from childhood to career to the family I’m raising today.