Professional Background
I'm a multidisciplinary technologist with deep expertise spanning HVAC technical education, software development, AI integration, and educational technology innovation.
Multidisciplinary Technologist
With 20+ years in HVAC and a passion for technology, I bridge traditional skilled trades with modern AI and software development. As an educator, entrepreneur, and innovator, I'm transforming how technical education is delivered in the 21st century.
Current Role
Currently serving as HVAC Program Coordinator at Fanshawe College's Woodstock/Oxford Regional Campus, where I coordinate the Heating, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning (HRAC) and Residential Air Conditioning Apprenticeship (RAS) programs. I combine traditional skilled trades instruction with cutting-edge educational technology to deliver exceptional learning experiences.
Educational Philosophy
"Technology should serve people, not the other way around"
This philosophy drives everything I do. I believe in leveraging technology to enhance (not replace) human instruction, making complex technical concepts accessible through innovative tools, continuous learning and adaptation in rapidly evolving fields, and building systems that empower both educators and learners.
My Journey
HVAC Industry Foundation (20+ Years)
My career began in the HVAC industry, where I spent over two decades building comprehensive technical expertise. I successfully operated my own HVAC business (Mike's Heating and Home Comfort) for 11+ years, earning my TSSA G2 certification and building deep knowledge of residential and commercial HVAC systems.
This hands-on experience provided the real-world foundation that makes my teaching authentic and relevant to industry needs.
Education & Leadership (10+ Years)
Transitioning to education in 2017, I brought my industry expertise into the classroom at Fanshawe College. I've taught all CSA modules for G2 and G3 certification, developed comprehensive curriculum materials, and coordinated multiple programs serving hundreds of students.
My commitment to educational excellence earned recognition including Dean's Honour List, Highest Academic Achievement Award, and 2nd place in the Ontario Technical Skills Competition.
Technology Innovation (2025 - Present)
In 2025, I expanded my capabilities into AI systems, software development, and educational technology. Through extensive self-directed learning, I achieved proficiency in:
- Programming languages: JavaScript, Python, CSS, HTML, TypeScript
- Full-stack application development (Next.js, React, Vercel)
- AI integration and Claude API implementation
- Claude Code & CLI integration and development
- Custom MCP (Model Context Protocol) server development (15 production servers)
- Automated workflow creation and optimization
- Educational content generation systems
- VS Codium development environment
This technical evolution led to founding LARK Labs, where I develop AI-powered educational tools specifically designed for skilled trades education.
Unique Value Proposition
The intersection of HVAC technical expertise, software development capability, and AI integration knowledge creates unique opportunities to innovate in technical education—a space often overlooked by traditional EdTech development.
Industry Credibility
20+ years HVAC experience, TSSA G2 certified, successful business owner
Educational Expertise
10+ years teaching experience, program coordination, curriculum development
Technical Innovation
Software development, AI integration, custom MCP servers, automation systems
Entrepreneurial Mindset
Founded businesses, grant management, strategic planning, innovation leadership
Education & Credentials
College Educator Development Program (CEDP)
Fanshawe College
Advanced certification in post-secondary education pedagogy and instructional design
HVAC Technician & Gas Technician II
Fanshawe College - HRAC Program
Dean's Honour List | Highest Academic Achievement Award | 2nd Place Ontario Technical Skills Competition | Valedictorian Nominee
Electronics Engineering Technology
Sheridan College
Professional Development
Industry Certifications & Training
- TSSA Certified G2 License - Current and active
- HRAI Course Development Team Member - Heat Pumps 8-week training program (2024-2025), successfully rolled out to 8 Ontario Colleges
- Canadian Mechanical and Plumbing Exposition (CMPX) - Regular attendee (2024, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2014, 2012)
- LAARS Boiler Training Certification (Kerr, September 2014)
- Ozone Depletion Prevention (ODP) - Card Certified (November 2010)
Business & Management
- Ontario Small Business Certificate (OSBC)
- Canadian Business Management Certificate
- Train the Trainer Course Certification
- Health and Safety Certification - IAPA
Independence Statement
All independent technical work, including LARK Labs and personal professional development projects, is developed on personal time using personal resources and represents continuous professional development separate from institutional employment. Technical expertise is maintained through self-directed learning and exploration of emerging educational technologies.