Mike graduated from the Greater Altoona Career & Technology Center (GACTC) in 2006 under the instruction of Bill Doutt. During his time at the CTC, he gained valuable on-the-job experience by assisting Bruce Ross, a fellow masonry alumnus with masonry projects. This hands-on training paved the way for a co-op position with Fabbri Masonry during the spring of his senior year.

Following graduation, Mike spent two years specializing in residential masonry with Fabbri before transitioning to A.P. Green Refractories (locally known as “The Brickyard”) in Claysburg. There, he spent six years producing high-temperature mortars for the steel industry, followed by a five-year tenure as a maintenance technician at the Sheetz Distribution Center.

Throughout these various roles, Mike remained dedicated to the craft by investing in equipment inventory and building a loyal customer base. This entrepreneurial spirit led to the launch of a successful residential masonry business in 2018, often supported by referrals from their former instructor, Mr. Doutt. In 2023, Mike’s career came full circle when they returned to the GACTC as the Masonry Instructor. Today, he finds great satisfaction in mentoring his talented students.