Dr. Howard’s decision to specialize in cardiothoracic surgery was driven by personal loss, after losing both of his parents to lung cancer and heart disease. A transformative experience during medical school in Tennessee, where he worked alongside a cardiothoracic surgeon, solidified his passion for the field. He later completed his general surgery training in Iowa, further deepening his connection to the state. Before moving to Iowa, Dr. Howard spent nearly seven years practicing as a cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon in Alabama.