Mr. Nelson began fencing at the Salle Saint-George in 2008 while attending the University of Washington in Seattle, where he studied history, Latin, and music. Under the tutelage of Provost Longino, Mr. Nelson became fascinated with the living traditions of classical fencing. The demand for precision, consistency, and the cultivation of character integral to the program at the salle impressed upon Mr. Nelson the importance and value of endeavoring to maintain these rare arts.

In 2013 Mr. Nelson earned his B.A. in history from the University of Washington, and was accepted into the Martinez Academy of Arms Instructor in Training program. He was certified as an instructor of French foil in December, 2015, and currently teaches fencing at the Nelson School of Arms in Alhambra, CA.