Pearson joined the Scarlet Hawks as an assistant coach after completing his four-year career in 2005. Selected captain by his teammates for three years, Pearson brings both leadership and experience to the program. A three-time national qualifier and NAIA academic All-American, Pearson's strengths are in both the 100- and 200-yard breaststroke.

Pearson received his bachelor's and master's degrees from IIT in 2004 and 2006 respectively. When not with the team, he's continuing his academic career and working towards a doctoral degree in mechanical and aerospace engineering. His work is supported by a fellowship from the National Science Foundation. He and his wife, Sherry, reside in Oak Park, a near-west suburb of Chicago.