Meet the Experts

Our Skilled Trades Experts

Our SkillMill  online skilled trades courses are built by trusted industry experts and instructional design professionals who understand what top technicians need to know. These experts cover the foundational elements – tools, measurements, codes – and also provide real-world use cases.

Jim Geist, Construction Expert at Interplay Learning
Construction Expert

Jim Geist

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Jordan Hill, Automotive Expert at Interplay Learning
Automotive Expert

jordan hill

Joaquin Gomez, Automotive Expert at Interplay Learning
Automotive Expert

Joaquin Gomez

Interplay Learning logo
Construction Expert

CHRISTOPHER BERGERS

Don Josefik, Automotive Expert at Interplay Learning
Automotive Expert

Don Josefik

Craig Bartholomew, Multi-Family Maintenance Expert at Interplay Learning
Multi-Family Maintenance Expert

Craig Bartholomew

Mary Anne Bowcott, Plumbing Expert at Interplay Expert
Plumbing Expert

Mary-Anne Bowcott

Dave Yates, Plumbing & HVAC Expert at Interplay Learning
Plumbing & HVAC Expert

dave yates

William Nagle, Plumbing Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Plumbing Expert

William Nagle

Kenneth Peel, Plumbing & HVAC Expert at Interplay Learning
Plumbing & HVAC Expert

ken peel

Frank Garro, Plumbing and Hvac Expert at Interplay
Plumbing & HVAC Expert

Frank Garro

Paul Brunson, Electrical Expert at Interplay Learning
Electrical Expert

Paul Brunson

Lee Byers, HVAC Expert at Interplay Learning
HVAC Expert

lee byers

Mike Folta, Commercial HVAC Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Commercial HVAC Expert

Mike Folta

Dan Clapper, Commercial HVAC & Facility Maintenance Expert at Interplay Learning
Commercial HVAC & Facility Maintenance Expert

Dan Clapper

Thomas P. Cosgrove, Electrical Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Electrical Expert

Thomas P. Cosgrove

Jeff Hazel, Multi-Family Expert at Interplay Learning
In Memoriam
Multi-Family Expert

Jeff Hazel

Thomas Hicken, Plumbing Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Plumbing Expert

Thomas Hicken

Melody McBride, Carpentry & Construction Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Carpentry & Construction Expert

Melody McBride

Ken Midgett, Plumbing Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Plumbing & Industrial Maintenance Expert

Ken Midgett

Mark Mrohs, Solar Expert at Interplay Learning
Solar Expert

Mark Mrohs

Bryan Patton, HVAC Expert at Interplay Learning
HVAC Expert

Bryan patton

Tim Smith, HVAC Expert at Interplay Learning
HVAC Expert

Tim Smith

Chad Soucy, Electrical Expert at Interplay Learning
Electrical Expert

Chad Soucy

Krista Washbourne, Multi-Family Expert at Interplay Learning
Multi-Family Expert

Krista Washbourne

Steve Wieland, Plumbing & Hydronics Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Plumbing & Hydronics Expert

Steven Wieland

Jason Lear, Plumbing Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Plumbing Expert

Jason lear

John Nieve, Plumbing Expert at Interplay Expert
Plumbing Expert

john nieves

Jim Geist, Construction Expert at Interplay Learning
Construction Expert

James Geist

As long as you do right, you will never get caught doing wrong.

About

 
 

James Geist serves as one of Interplay’s construction experts. He lives in Allentown, PA, and for the past 20 years, has taught as the carpentry instructor at Lehigh Career and Technical Institute(LCTI) in Schnecksville, PA. Along with being a carpentry instructor, James has operated a carpentry business since 1991. 

 

James started his carpentry journey as a student at LCTI and then attended Pennsylvania College of Technology, earning an associate degree in Building Construction Technology. After graduation, James started his residential carpentry business and completed his Vocational Education Instructional II Certification at Temple University. 

 

James enjoys the carpentry trade because there is always something different to design, draw, and build, whether a house, an addition, a deck, or a remodeled basement, kitchen, or bathroom. One of his favorite past jobs was working at an amusement park, rebuilding the tracks on a wooden roller coaster and repairing a carousel. 

 

James enjoys teaching students the technical skills needed for the carpentry trade but, more importantly, the employability skills that are needed for students to become lifelong learners. His philosophy in the classroom is that if a student is employable, they are teachable and will become a successful and productive person. James enjoys spending time with his wife and family on vacations and playing golf with his friends. He is an avid NFL football fan, and one of his goals is to see his favorite NFL football team play in every NFL stadium.

 

Jordan Hill, Automotive Expert at Interplay Learning
Automotive Expert

Jordan Hill

As long as you do right, you will never get caught doing wrong.

About

 
 

Jordan Hill serves as one of Interplay’s Automotive experts. He began his automotive career at a full-service Shell station in the suburbs of Chicago, pumping gas and cleaning the service bays. He quickly transitioned into mechanical repairs, and the automotive ‘bug’ took hold; he was hooked. Jordan worked his way up from an entry-level technician to a shop foreman. Now entering his 24th year in the industry, Jordan is an ASE Master Certified Technician with multiple Advanced Certifications. He has embraced new technologies and still enjoys the challenge of diagnosing and repairing today’s vehicles. 


As foreman, he has mentored and trained technicians and high-school interns. Throughout his career, Jordan has been fortunate to work for and learn from some of the best technicians in the business, and he has managed to have a little fun along the way. About 10 years ago, Jordan used his musical background to build a drum set from scrap car parts, with surprising results. Jordan is currently working as a freelance diagnostic consultant and automotive technical writer.

 

Joaquin Gomez, Automotive Expert at Interplay Learning
Automotive Expert

Joaquin Gomez

As long as you do right, you will never get caught doing wrong.

About

 
 

Joaquin Gomez serves as one of Interplay’s Automotive experts. He is a former ASE Master Tech and an industrial motor repair specialist & machinist. With 8 years of experience in the automotive industry, Joaquin specializes in electronics & engine performance diagnostics. In his spare time, he tinkers with his analog camera and adds to his collection of nature photographs. Originally from Eagle Pass, Texas, he’s based in Jacksonville, Florida.

 

Interplay Learning logo
Construction Expert

Christopher Bergers

“Spend an extra 10 minutes now, and it may save you an hour later.”

About

 

Christopher Bergers hails from South Florida and serves as one of Interplay Learning’s construction experts. In 2003, at the age of 18, Christopher took an odd job in construction that his friend recommended to him and hasn’t looked back since! Over the years, he has dedicated his time to expanding his industry knowledge.


His early career began when working with Divosta Homes, where he cut his teeth on pocket doors, soffits, fascia, and seamless gutters. Then, after a few years, he searched for a bigger growth opportunity, where he found Absolute Aluminum. After just one year there, he realized he was meant for this type of work and began taking the skill more seriously. Christopher then began working at higher-end places like Mr. Build, where he remodeled homes and built glass rooms and Hardie siding. He continued building his experience at Absolute Window until he finally started his own business. Christopher was successfully self-employed for 12 years, and in that time, he developed his leadership and business skills. Christopher is a true expert; he’s always up for a good challenge, and needs to produce a finished product he can be proud of. Christopher enjoys grilling and being outdoors on his time off, particularly riding his ATV in the woods.

Don Josefik, Automotive Expert at Interplay Learning
Automotive Expert

Don Josefik

As long as you do right, you will never get caught doing wrong.

About

 
 

Don Josefik serves as one of Interplay’s Automotive experts. He has over 45 years of experience in the automotive field and is an ASE Automotive Master, G1 and L1 certified. 

 

Don started his career in 1974 as a repair technician in his family’s repair shop and went on to attend classes at General Motors Training Center in Hinsdale, IL. In 1992, he went to work as a professional automotive repair techline operator for BWD Automotive Corporation. Shortly after that, he was promoted to Techline Manager and then Manager of Training Support Operations in 1997, where he was involved in curriculum development and CASE Certification. 

 

During the nineties, he was active in the ATMC Automotive Training Managers Council. He sat on the ASE test writing panel, and in 2003, he was a subject matter expert for Dana Corporation and Canadian Tire. 

 

Don then joined Universal Technical Institute in 2004, teaching automotive electronics, drivability, and advanced automotive applications for 18 years. In 2005, he was promoted to Technical Team Leader for electronics. He created the company’s first electronic gradebook in 2006 and administered it until it switched to Blackboard in 2020. In 2016, he was promoted to Technical Team Leader for advanced automotive applications. Follow Don Josefik on Linkedin.

 

Craig Bartholomew, Multi-Family Maintenance Expert at Interplay Learning
Multi-Family Maintenance Expert

Craig Bartholomew

"I very much enjoy working with both service teams and leadership to create an environment where the maintenance team is both mentored through training and held accountable through well-defined policy. I also work to bring technology to our service teams through the implementation of new products and platforms that will not only make the job of today’s service teams more efficient in the field but also provide better reporting and evaluation at a corporate level."

About


Craig Bartholomew serves as one of Interplay Learning’s multi-family maintenance experts. Craig began his career in the multi-family industry in 1992. With 23+ years of on-site maintenance experience, he brings a wealth of knowledge and success to diverse assets, including A+ lease-ups, conventional, mid-rise, and garden-style communities. As a leader for service teams, he enjoys working with company leadership to develop maintenance operations that provide the highest level of service for residents and a career path for service team members that keeps them engaged and challenged.


Craig is currently an independent contractor working in the multi-family industry to advance education for service teams. Craig served as Sr. Director of Maintenance and Technical Education and as a Regional Maintenance Manager for a large multi-family company in his prior roles. As a Sr. Director, Craig worked closely with leadership to develop and implement tools for service teams that reduced risk and improved efficiency. As a Regional, not only was there a component of compliance with company standards but also an opportunity to train and mentor supervisors and all service team members through one-on-one, classroom, and hands-on learning.


During his 23+ years working on-site, Craig was relied on for property takeovers, due diligence, regional maintenance training, and teaching classes in plumbing, electrical, HVAC and pool management. Craig is currently an EPA Proctor and PHTA (NSPF) Certified Instructor. Follow Craig on LinkedIn.

Accreditations


  • PHTA (Pool and Hot Tub Alliance) certified instructor
  • Trainer and Proctor for ESCO institute
  • NAA CAMT proctor
Mary Anne Bowcott, Plumbing Expert at Interplay Expert
Plumbing Expert

mary-anne bowcott

“Persistence, perseverance, and taking every positive opportunity that comes your way will unfold a world of endless possibilities.”

About

 
Mary-Anne has 14 years of plumbing experience and is one of Interplay’s plumbing experts. Mary-Anne started out as a roofer in 2004, but after some time grew tired of the monotony and lengthy projects. 
 
After leaving roofing, work was sparse, so she tried to find any other job in the trades. Eventually, after a year of applying to many different companies in the construction industry, she was signed on as a plumbing apprentice with a friend who owned a plumbing company. From there, she moved on to a different apprentice position in the residential sector and hasn’t looked back since. 
 

Mary-Anne now proudly owns her own plumbing company. Throughout her entire plumbing career, she has been fortunate to gain experience with both plumbing and gas; not all plumbers who have their gas class B tickets in her location are proficient and have experience working with gas. For Mary-Anne, every day is something new as she works on new residential construction, light commercial gas, plumbing, gas service, renovations, and retrofits. Follow Mary-Anne on Linkedin. 

 

Accreditations

 
  • Journeyman Red Seal Plumber Certification
  • Class B Gas fitting Certification

Education

 
  • Camosun College – Apprenticeship training

Professional Achievements

 
  • Distinguished Alumni Award – Woman in a Male-Dominated Industry Displaying Leadership – 2013
  • Canadian Construction Association – Person of the Year Award – In recognition of outstanding leadership and excellence in the construction industry – 2018
  • BC Construction Association – Construction Leadership Award – 2018
  • Promising Alumni Award – Outstanding service and achievement in her field and her community – 2019
  • Sooke Chamber of Excellence Award – Trades and Skilled Labour – 2016 & 2018
  • Business Examiner Award – Trades Business of the Year – 2019
Dave Yates, Plumbing & HVAC Expert at Interplay Learning
HVAC & Plumbing Expert

DAVE Yates

As long as you do right, you will never get caught doing wrong.

About

 
 

Dave Yates serves as one of Interplay’s plumbing and HVAC subject matter experts. 

He began his career in the PHVAC trades in 1972, and after completing his apprenticeship and working up to Master Plumber status, he struck out on his own in 1979. In 1985, Dave returned to the company where he did his apprentice years and purchased F. W. Behler, Inc., a third-generation PHVAC firm that celebrated 119 years of service in 2019. 

Dave’s company has won numerous awards for their work, and he was the first recipient of the international Carlson-Holohan Industry Award of Excellence. A published author in numerous trade publications in the USA and overseas, Dave has also written articles for The World Book Encyclopedia. 

In addition to teaching, lecturing, and presentations throughout the USA, Dave has served as an Adjunct Professor and on the Technical Advisory Board for the Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. Dave is a past executive board member of the RPA (Radiant Panel Association), a member of the Green Mechanical Council, and serves on the newly established RHC (Radiant & Hydronics Council) with ACCA. Dave recently “retired” after 14 years as the board president for York Central Market in York, PA, and now operates Yates Consulting LLC. Follow Dave on Linkedin.

 

William Nagle, Plumbing Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Plumbing Expert

William Nagle

About

 
William Nagle is a licensed Master Plumber in North Wales, Pennsylvania. He is currently a Field Supervisor and Trainer at Sila Services and has 27 years of extensive experience in the field. Nagle is a welcome addition to the Interplay team, lending his expertise as one of our plumbing experts. Follow William on Linkedin.

Accreditations

 
  • Master Plumber
Kenneth Peel, Plumbing & HVAC Expert at Interplay Learning
HVAC & Plumbing Expert

ken peel

"As long as you do right, you will never get caught doing wrong."

As long as you do right, you will never get caught doing wrong.

About

 
 

Ken Peel is one of Interplay’s plumbing and HVAC experts. Ken has taken a diverse career path that led him through many different fields. First, spending 13 years in law enforcement and civil engineering, then served in the Army as a vessel engineer for 11 years. In 2008 he transitioned to a new career as a content creation specialist at Pitt Community College, where he now manages the campus LMS and ensures that the college is ADA-compliant.

 

VR is his current passion which he uses every day. Outside work, he is an active church member and has been the planning and tech team leader for over 14 years. Overall, He is a dedicated and passionate person who strives to make a positive impact wherever he goes.

 

Plumbing & HVAC Expert

Frank Garro

"Over the years, I've learned a lot of lessons by doing things the hard way, making mistakes and going back to fix them. Interplay Learning is the best way for me to reach the most people and train them how to do their job without learning the hard way."

About

 

Frank Garro serves as a plumbing and HVAC expert for Interplay Learning. Frank began his career in the plumbing trade but eventually expanded his knowledge into the HVAC trade through early work experience. Earlier in his career, he visited an ASHRAE trade show in Chicago that gave him a unique chance to explore the inside of a rooftop unit on display that was large enough to walk inside. Immediately, he was hooked on HVAC. The experience inspired him to begin studying HVAC more in-depth at the local community college, and then 18 years later, he became the Program Chair of the HVAC department at the Fort Wayne campus of Ivy Tech.

 

As an educator, Garro is a firm believer in teaching the fundamentals, or, as he says, “the science that supports the mechanical systems we interact with every day.” He adds, “If you understand the how and the why behind the way mechanical things work, there are no limits to what you can do, and your value (earning potential) will continually increase.” Over the years, Frank has taught a variety of formats, from one-on-one apprenticeship training to classroom and lab environments, and has even developed his own course materials. Frank feels that the biggest thing a technician can gain from training is confidence – something Interplay Learning’s unique training experiences instill. “In my early days as a technician, when I would approach a piece of equipment I had never seen before, I would stare at it like a deer in headlights. “I believe we can take the intimidation out of learning complex concepts, accelerate the productivity of new employees, and expose more seasoned technicians to things they have not yet encountered in the field.” Follow Frank on LinkedIn.

 

Accreditations

 

  • Associate Professor and HVAC Program Chair, Ivy Tech Community College
  • Owner, Consolidated Mechanical Services
  • Licensed Mechanical Contractor
  • Licensed Plumbing Contractor
  • Licensed Electrical Contractor
  • Six Sigma Yellow Belt, 2016
  • State Curriculum Chair, 2017-20

Education

 

  • BS, Building Construction Management, Purdue University
  • MS, Career and Technical Education, Purdue University

Professional Achievements

 

  • ATEA (American Technical Education Association) 2022 Innovation in Technical Education Award winner
  • Removing Barriers in CTE Courses for Special Needs Learners.
  • Reaching High School Students with CTE – Construction Trades Education.
  • Setting up college based and high school based dual credit for Mechanical Construction Trades in the greater Fort Wayne, IN region.
  • Developing a Program Website to Encourage Student Involvement and Increase Retention Rates.
Paul Brunson, Electrical Expert at Interplay Learning
Electrical Expert

Paul Brunson

“Representing the skilled trades with dignity and respect is an important aspect of what I do. If we’re going to solve the skills gap, we need to approach it from all aspects. That includes everything from training and professional development to becoming role models for apprentices.”

About

Paul Brunson serves as one of Interplay Learning’s Electrical experts. Paul started his electrical career in 2005 at age 17. His first job was a Helper in New York City, where he immediately fell in love with the industry and has worked in the electrical field ever since.  Paul went on to land an apprenticeship in Connecticut, where he became a licensed journeyman electrician in 2011.  

 

After obtaining his license, he worked as an electrical and environmental systems technician in the United States Air Force.  His time in the military opened new doors and led to his first management position as an electrical foreman on several Army Corps of Engineers projects.  The Air Force also opened his eyes to how important and impactful good training can be, which led to his interest in becoming an instructor and mentor.  In 2014 Paul obtained his master electrician license and became a full-time electrical contractor.  Shortly after, he began teaching both code courses and electrical labs for local trade schools and private businesses.  

 

Paul currently works as a commercial project manager in Connecticut. Paul believes in connecting theory with practical application as the most effective way to train apprentices in the construction trades. Interplay offers an excellent opportunity to do that, and he believes that his work could help spread a positive message about careers in the skilled trades to future apprentices. Follow Paul Brunson on Linkedin.

 

Accreditations

  •  Unlimited Electrical Contractor license (Master Electrician)
  • E2 Journeyman Electrician license

Education

  • A.A.S. Aviation Maintenance Technology
  • Connecticut Electrical Apprenticeship Program
Lee Byers, HVAC Expert at Interplay Learning
HVAC Expert

lee byers

“I believe the solution to all the world’s problems is education. I love to learn and teach. I am passionate about leadership and philanthropy. I want to change the world.”

About

 
 

Lee Byers serves as one of Interplay’s Residential HVAC experts and has been in the field for 25+ years. Lee found himself in the industry by accident while looking for a summer job to help pay for college. After answering an ad from a builder that was looking for an apprentice, he landed the job and never looked back. Lee has worked in all aspects of the trade, beginning as a Helper, then moving to an installer in residential new construction. He’s experienced in retrofit replacement, service, repair and maintenance, sales, installation, service, and sales management to operations. 

 

Lee spends a large portion of his time training, regularly conducting service, sales, customer service, installation, and leadership training. Currently, he is working on the development of a trade school that will utilize classroom training, including simulation, hands-on lab, and real-world experience to help combat the skilled labor shortage. Lee hopes to create career opportunities while providing valuable community service.

Mike Folta, Commercial HVAC Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Commercial HVAC Expert

Lawrence Michael Folta

"Wiring diagrams, wiring diagrams, wiring diagrams!!!
I have never found a piece of equipment that I can’t diagnose with a wiring diagram and a sequence of operations."

About

 

Lawrence Folta serves as one of Interplay Learning’s Commerical HVAC experts and is a Service Manager for Executive Air in Destin, FL. With over 15 years of experience, he’s honed his skills in both commercial and residential HVAC, missile guidance testing chambers, AGE carts for F15 Eagles, hydronic pumping systems, electric motor rebuild and rewinding, and everything from walk-in coolers & freezers to commercial cooking equipment.

 

Accreditations

 
  • Licensed Mechanical contractor in FL
Commercial HVAC Expert

Dan Clapper

“The true impact of helping entry-level people progress faster along the journey to top-tier Service Technicians often means enabling them to potentially triple or quadruple their income and value to their organizations! In doing this, the meaning of ‘Better Careers, Better Lives’ becomes clear and incredibly fulfilling.”

About

 

Dan Clapper serves as the Commercial HVAC and Facilities Maintenance Market Director for Interplay Learning. Dan brings 25 years of experience to Interplay in a variety of roles across the HVAC market. Over the years in this space, Dan has developed a passion for helping trade professionals grow their businesses and their people. From installing boilers and HVAC equipment with his father as a teenager to sales, design, and distribution at the wholesale level, to training thousands of HVAC professionals across the country at the manufacturing level, Dan has a unique perspective on best practices.

 

After sending out 5,000+ free copies of his first book, “Get More HVAC Leads: 5 Must Have Strategies for 2018”, Dan realized that the biggest challenge in our industry is the skilled labor shortage, not lead generation. With tens of millions of people in the US who make less than $15/hr, HVAC and Facilities teams can build a pipeline of talent if they had better in-house training infrastructure. At Interplay, Dan now helps business owners and leaders leverage 3D simulation-based training to help attract new talent to the industry and upskill them faster and more efficiently than ever before. Follow Dan on Linkedin.

Education

 
  • Masters and Advanced Certificate at Cardone University
Thomas P. Cosgrove, Electrical Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Electrical Expert

Thomas P. Cosgrove

“The electrical industry has a wide variety of specialties and is a great industry. I enjoy working in an industry that’s so varied and satisfying. The people you get to know are what make going to work enjoyable.”

About

 

Thomas P. Cosgrove has been in the electrical industry for about 46 years and serves as one of Interplay’s electrical experts. His father was an estimator for an electrical contractor and went on to have his own contracting firm, where Thomas began his career doing inventory by 2nd grade. After High School, he studied Electrical Construction at the St. Paul Technical Vocational Institute in St. Paul, Minnesota. There, he was a member of the IBEW starting at the age of 15 as a “B” member. Upon completing his schooling and apprenticeship, he became an “A” member. 

 

Thomas has worked as an electrician, shop manager, purchaser, scheduler, distributor, and consultant. Additionally, he has extensive experience in the residential areas of the trade, new and remodeling of single-family homes, new and remodeling of multi-family buildings, and service work. Currently, Thomas is an Electrical Virtual Expert consulting for a large insurance company. Follow Thomas on Linkedin.

 

Accreditations

 
  • Minnesota Class “A” Journeyman Electrician

Education

 
  • Saint Paul Technical Vocational Institute 1980-1982
Jeff Hazel, Multi-Family Expert at Interplay Learning
In Memoriam
Multi-Family Expert

JEFF HAZEL

"Education is the backbone of life and empowering people through knowledge makes me feel good as a person. At the end of the day, we’re not looking for people to just fill a job, we’re looking for them to have a rewarding career and feel better about themselves."

About


Jeff Hazel (1968-2021) joined Interplay Learning as a multi-family and training consultant in 2020.


He served as the Service Training Manager at Edward Rose & Sons and was a top multi-family training and development expert with decades of experience.

With an unmatched ability to optimize the bottom line, Jeff skillfully created and implemented highly effective corporate training programs that not only greatly increased revenue but meaningful decreased operational costs.


Jeff prided himself in his ability to foster a deep culture of learning among his maintenance staff and trailblazed the industry with his unique approach to talent and career development.

Thomas Hicken, Plumbing Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Plumbing Expert

Thomas T. Hicken

"Every effort in the plumbing trade contributes to the single purpose of delivering customer peace of mind."

About


Thomas is a plumbing contractor living in Cache Valley, Utah, and serves as one of Interplay Learning’s plumbing experts.  In his years of plumbing experience, he has been involved in commercial and industrial projects, residential plumbing, and service plumbing.  His view and understanding of the plumbing trade are comprehensive.  


In addition to his plumbing work, Thomas has been involved as a plumbing instructor at Bridgerland Technical College since 2008, where he has prepared apprentices to take and pass their journeyman test. In 2020, he sold a major portion of his business to take the position of Apprenticeship Department Head at Bridgerland.  He now oversees the instructors and manages the apprenticeship program while continuing to teach as an instructor himself.  He is fully committed to helping apprentices achieve their full potential.  

To share his plumbing experience, Thomas has started a channel on YouTube called Plumber-Tom, where he posts informative and entertaining videos.  His constant effort and desire are to help others understand and love plumbing as much as he does.   


Plumbing is important to Thomas, but his experience and success in plumbing are a vehicle to provide for what he really loves – his family.  With his wife and nine children, Thomas runs a small hobby farm where they raise animals and keep a garden.  Thomas’s other hobbies include drawing, playing guitar, foundry metal crafts, and carpentry.  Follow Thomas Hicken on LinkedIn.


Accreditations


  • 21 years in the Plumbing Industry
  • Licensed Master Plumber and Plumbing Contractor
  • Instructor for plumbing apprentices at Bridgerland Technical College for 12 years
  • Authorized instructor for plumbing continuing education for the state of Utah
  • BS Degree Business Management University of Phoenix 2006
  • Manager and producer of informative content on Plumber-Tom YouTube Channel
  • Author of “2022 Journeyman Plumber: Contractor Exam Prep,” available on Amazon.

Education


  •  BS Business Management University of Phoenix 2006
  •  Completed Plumbing Apprenticeship at Bridgerland Technical College 2006
Melody McBride, Carpentry & Construction Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Carpentry & Construction Expert

Melody McBride

"Dedicated to empowering young people.
Driven to share a passion for building a better world.
One project, one person at a time."

About


Melody McBride serves as one of Interplay Learning’s construction experts. With over 35 years of experience in the construction industry and 15 years in workforce development, Melody has an unmatched passion for developing a stronger skilled workforce. She has a Master’s in Leadership and Organizational Development focused on Adult Learning from Saint Joseph’s University and a breadth of experience in mentoring and coaching, program development, team building, and effective communication.  Follow Melody McBride on LinkedIn.

Accreditations


  • Journeyman Carpenter
  • CTE teaching license
  • NCCER Instructor  

Education


  • Carpenters Local 104 apprenticeship 1988-1992
  •  Wright State University
Ken Midgett, Plumbing Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Plumbing & Industrial Maintenance Expert

Kenneth J. Midgett

“College is not the only choice or answer for your future career. Learning a skilled trade and shaping a career with a skill that no one can take away from you and will never be outsourced could be one of the most important choices you will ever make.”

About

 

Ken Midgett serves as the Plumbing Market Director at Interplay Learning. He has been in the plumbing and heating industry for over 40 years and has worked in every facet of the industry. Ken has owned two successful PHCC businesses, is a licensed Master Plumber and is a two-time national award-winning educator in plumbing and heating CTE classrooms. Ken has a 100% placement rate into the industry for all eligible Seniors from his program. He was also noted throughout the CTE industry for including non-traditional workers in his classroom, including young women, whom he’s also helped place into the workforce.

Ken is passionate about the skilled trades and continues to stay active in PHCCNA, PCCCPA, and his local PHCCLV associations as an executive board member. This role has allowed him to continue his greatest passion, the mentoring and coaching of young apprentices in the field. Follow Ken on LinkedIn.

Accreditations

 
  • Licensed Master Plumber
  • EPA 608 Certificate
  • ASSE Certified Backflow

Education

 
  • Gen Ed
  • Vocational I and II Certificate

Professional Achievements

 
  • C Thomas Olivo Award 2013
  • NAPHCC Plumbing Instructor of the Year 2019
Mark Mrohs, Solar Expert at Interplay Learning
Solar Expert

Mark Mrohs

"I think solar technology is one of those few things in our modern world that inspires everyone."

About


  • 40+ years in solar PV
  • Degrees in Physics and Educational Psychology & Instructional Technology
  • Instructed 1000+ installers and engineers in 26 countries

Mark Mrohs serves as Interplay Learning’s Solar expert. He works with our team of designers, programmers, and 3D artists to create a full curriculum on residential solar. A photovoltaics expert and experienced instructor, Mark has worked in the industry his entire life. In fact, his love of high school physics led him to take a summer gig as a technician at Spectrolab in the company’s burgeoning solar cell R&D department. After high school graduation, the company hired Mark, and the rest is history.

Mark brings unbridled energy and a passion for solar (which he enthusiastically describes as “magical, awesome physics”) and its benefits to users and the Interplay team. “There’s just something so great about seeing a house electric meter spin BACKWARDS and a homeowner’s eyes going wide with delight, wonder, and satisfaction.”



Mark is a huge proponent of VR training for technical trades like solar installation and maintenance. “I love the fact that Interplay decided to jump all into doing everything in VR as well as for computer screens and that we are right at the front of the wave of this VR revolution,” Mark says. “For me, having done years of training in specialized classrooms with heavy, expensive equipment, I immediately see the benefit of being able to simulate hands-on activity in the virtual world – you can do it anywhere in the world, and you can update to the latest equipment easily and inexpensively, you can train on dozens of scenarios that you might never get to see in a training class, you get to use your whole body and mind and so you really ‘get it’ much better than through lecture, and it’s super fun!” Follow Mark Mrohs on LinkedIn.


Accreditations


  • Training Director for ARCO Solar, Siemens Solar, Astropower, SunPower and SunEdison
  • Member of the NABCEP Exam Review Committee
  • Program Manager and Lead Instructor, 1st World Bank-funded national photovoltaic training program in India

Education

 

  • B.S., Physics, Harvey Mudd College
  • Masters, Instructional Technology and Educational Psychology, USC

Awards

 

  • Institute for Sustainable Power Mark C. Fitzgerald Memorial Award
  • SunPower Corp. Excellence in Training Award
  • IREC Special Recognition Award
Bryan Patton, HVAC Expert at Interplay Learning
HVAC Expert

bryan patton

"I always treat every customer the way I would want to be treated. It is a pleasure being able to take care of their needs and see how happy they are once I have their HVAC system up and running properly."

About

 

Bryan Patton serves as one of Interplay’s HVAC experts and owns Air Comfort Solutions in Dallas, TX. Bryan brings with him 35+ years of experience; he started out in the industry as an entry-level helper and rapidly worked his way up the ladder advancing to each role within HVAC. Bryan has extensive experience in everything from technical to business and managerial skills, training, safety, sales, team-building, and customer satisfaction. Follow Bryan on Linkedin.

Accreditations

 
  • Licensed HVAC Contractor (State of Texas)
  • Licensed HVAC Journeyman (State of Florida)
Tim Smith, HVAC Expert at Interplay Learning
HVAC Expert

Tim Smith

"I believe that to be a successful HVAC technician; it's important to learn and master fundamentals and good reading comprehension skills. With the rapid advancement in technology within the HVAC field, the best technicians are the ones who have learned to learn. Cementing your understanding of the fundamentals of refrigeration, electrical theory, and combustion will help the HVAC technician install, service, diagnose and repair almost any system out there."

About


  • 32 years in the HVAC Industry
  • BPI Certified Building Analyst, Heating Professional, and AC/Heat Pump Professional
  • President of Smith & Associates, specializing in tech training and certifications

Tim Smith serves as one of Interplay Learning’s HVAC experts. Tim began his career in the HVAC industry in 1986 as a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic at the Albany Stratton VA Medical Center. There, he serviced and repaired various commercial refrigeration and air conditioning systems, including commercial ice machines, ultra-low temperature freezers, and industrial water chillers. 

 

In mid-1988, he went to work for Mechanical Testing Inc. as a sales engineer and chief estimator. In this position, he provided estimates, as well as plan and spec bidding for air and hydronic balancing contracts and clean room certification and commissioning throughout the US and Canada. 

 

In August 1989, he became a refrigeration and HVAC instructor at Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC) in Troy, NY, where he developed curriculum, secured equipment donations, and designed and installed a new HVAC laboratory in 2000. For over 30 years, Tim has taught various HVAC, refrigeration, and controls courses within the degree program. In September 2019, he retired from HVCC but returned as an adjunct professor in January 2020, eventually attaining the rank of Professor Emeritus upon retirement.

 

In 1993, Tim started his own consulting company, Smith & Associates. His company is still active today, providing in-house training and certification for HVAC and refrigeration technicians throughout the Northeast US. In addition, Smith & Associates also provides residential energy audits and energy-saving recommendations to clients within the Capital District of New York state. Tim’s company has also provided EPA 608 and R410a safety training to over 10,000 technicians in the Northeast US.

 

These days, Tim’s primary focus is to serve as an HVAC subject matter expert for Interplay Learning. Since 2014, he’s been working with Interplay, assisting in developing various video courses and simulations. “I knew from day one that Interplay was on the cutting edge of educational technology.” Follow Tim Smith on LinkedIn.

 

Accreditations


  • President of Smith & Associates, providing HVACR Technical Training, Certification Testing, and Residential Energy Audits from 1993 to Present
  • Assistant Professor Heating Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technical Services, Hudson Valley Community College, Troy New York August 1990 to Present
  • BPI Certified Building Analyst, Heating Professional and AC/Heat Pump Professional

Education


  • B.S., Technical Education State University of New York at Oswego
  • Accredited, AOS Heating Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technical Services. Hudson Valley Community College
Chad Soucy, Electrical Expert at Interplay Learning
Electrical Expert

Chad Soucy

"My role here at Interplay Learning is to build robust electrical training experiences with all the tools & technology available; it’s a dream come true! I believe my field-experience enhances my ability to deliver self-directed learning."

About

 
  • 30 years experience in the electrical trade
  • Master Electrician
  • Licenses; construction electrical, Industrial electrician, Industrial Instrumentation technician trades
  • 5 plus years as electrical instructor and Online course developer
  • Experienced Electrical safety Instructor (NFPA 70e, NEC)

Chad serves as an Electrical expert for Interplay Learning. Throughout his career, he has been fortunate enough to work in several aspects of the electrical industry. Starting out rewiring houses with his dad and uncle, Chad’s early experience led him to become a contractor, rewiring apartment buildings, stores, and offices. Chad then went on to join the IBEW. In his earlier career, he spent a lot of time traveling throughout the United States; Pickney High School in Ann Arbor MI, Hy-Vee grocery store in Lincoln NE, apartment complexes in St.Paul MI, and commissioning electrical systems and instruments at a local refinery. Chad continued on with his training and actually ended up traveling for most of his career as an electrician. Eventually, all that travel landed him a great new opportunity in 2012 as an electrical apprenticeship instructor.

 

Chad prides himself on always being his best and bringing the best out in his co-workers and students. He’s a dedicated, hard worker; consistently improving, and practicing adult learning theories combined with NFPA 70(E), NEC and trade practices. Chad continuously adds to his skillset and is committed to electrical safety and sound adult learning theories. These are what represents his core values, grounded with a growth mindset of a lifelong learner. Follow Chad on LinkedIn.

 

Accreditations

 
  • IBEW Training Trustee
  • IBEW Health & Wellness Trustee
  • IBEW EEAP Trustee
  • Mike Holt train the trainer

Education

 
  • Grande Prairie Regional College Online Course Developer
  • Grande Prairie Regional College Master Electrician
  • NBCCSJ Construction/Industrial Electrician
  • NBCCSJ Instrumentation technician
  • NBCCSJ Maine state electrical license
  • ATS computer programming
  • Vancouver career college Adult Ed
  • York University MEAE

Professional Achievements

 
  • Founder of IBEW local 502, Training center
  • Developed a dual credit program for Northern Lights College
  • Developed the E&I training program for Northern Lights College
Krista Washbourne, Multi-Family Expert at Interplay Learning
Multi-Family Expert

KRISTA WASHBOURNE

"My passion has always been to help people be engaged at work–giving extra effort because they're happy to do so–growing and supported. My goal with Interplay is to facilitate this by offering expertise around career pathing, adoption, and long-term best practices. When teams feel supported by their leaders, they're also connected to their companies, co-workers, and customers and willing to stay longer to give more."

About


Krista Washbourne serves as one of Interplay’s Multi-family experts. Her successful career began in multi-family training over 20 years ago, working with companies such as Fairfield, Greystar, Gables, and most recently, as Lincoln Property Company’s VP of Learning and Talent Development.


With a deep understanding of what it takes to recruit, hire, onboard, engage and retain maintenance associates, Krista aids Interplay in rollouts of new content, content creation, and curation. She also focuses on structuring multi-family learning paths and content that accommodates faster onboarding, role growth, and expediting promotions.


Her passion has always been to help people feel engaged at work while facilitating the support necessary for their growth. Her goal with Interplay is to offer her expertise in career pathing, training adoption, and long-term training usage best practices. When teams feel supported by their leaders, they’re also connected to their companies, co-workers, and customers, leading to better retention. Follow Krista on LinkedIn.


Education:

 
  • BS, Double Major in Psychology and Journalism from Kansas State University
  • Numerous certifications through ATD, Gallup, Zenger-Folkman Coaching Program, and American Marketing Association

Professional Achievements

 
  • Member, Association for Talent Development
  • Member, SHRM
  • CAM and NALP Trainer
  • Former Chairman of Education Committee and Active member of the Austin Apartment Association
Steve Wieland, Plumbing & Hydronics Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Plumbing & Hydronics Expert

Steven Wieland

“'I’m just a plumber!'” That’s what I was taught to say early on in my career. My grandmother said to me, ‘learn a trade and then get a profession; you will never be without work.’ I say, find something you love to do, and you will never work another day in your life!"

About

 

Steven Wieland is a Master Plumber who serves as Interplay’s plumbing and hydronics expert. He’s been in the field for 51 years and started off his career apprenticing with a plumber he met at his dad’s plumbing supply house. Over his career, Steven has owned his own plumbing & heating business, partnered in a plumbing and heating wholesale supply house, served as a national sales manager for a radiant heat manufacturer, was an adult education instructor for hydronic heating, a hydronics specialist, VP HVAC distributor, a manufacturer’s rep, and regional sales manager & trainer for a boiler manufacture. 

 

Currently, Steven travels the Mid-Atlantic region for NTI Boilers, calling on wholesalers and contractors regarding modulating condensing boilers. Additionally, he is involved in training, field/jobsite application inspections, and troubleshooting.

 

 

Steven loves what he does for a living and was born with a passion for all things water and hydronic heating. As a lifelong learner, Steven’s passion is to pay it forward and teach the next generations what he has learned and is still learning throughout his lifetime. Follow Steven on Linkedin.

 

Accreditations

 
  • Master Plumber
  • Scuba Instructor
Jason Lear, Plumbing Expert​ at Interplay Learning
Plumbing Expert

Jason lear

About

 

Jason Lear is one of Interplay’s plumbing experts and has over a decade of experience in the industry. Jason graduated at the top of his class from PHCC, a nationally recognized apprenticeship program, and worked his way up to earning his Master plumbing license. Jason is now Learjet Plumbing’s Founder and Owner and a proud member of the PHCC.

Jason has provided plumbing services to many commercial clients, including big-box retail stores, grocery store chains, and multi-story office buildings. He has extensive experience with residential remodels, new construction plumbing installation, leak repair, and unclogging toilets and drains. Jason is a husband and father of two who enjoys hands-on activities and time with his family and friends. An avid outdoorsman, Jason is a member of the Lucky Bucks Hunting Club. He has a creative spirit and is always willing to lend a helping hand.

 

Accreditations

 
  • Master Plumber
John Nieve, Plumbing Expert at Interplay Expert
Plumbing Expert

JOHN J. NIEVES

“As a second-generation plumber, I’ve seen the benefits of skilled trade education and how it provided an avenue of success for my family. There are many opportunities available beyond the journeyman level in our industry; apply yourself, and the sky is the limit!”

About

 

John Nieves serves as a plumbing subject matter expert at Interplay Learning. He began his plumbing experience working with his family, building plumbing for residential homes as a teenager. At the age of 18, he was accepted into the 5-year NYC Local Plumbers One Union Apprenticeship Program. He accepted the responsibility as a foreman at the age of 23 and has had the opportunity to serve the industry at many different levels, inclusive of a field supervisor, project manager, estimator, consultant, and Licensed Master Plumber. Follow John on Linkedin.

 

Accreditations

 
  • Licensed Master Plumber
  • NFPA 6010 Certified Medical Gas Installer
  • NYC SST Supervisor Safety Certification
  • OSHA 30

Education

 
  • Vocational Diploma in Electrical installation
  • Plumbers Local One Plumber Apprenticeship Program
Tim Smith, HVAC Expert at Interplay Learning
HVAC Expert

Tim Smith

"I authored an entirely new curriculum, one that reflected current changes and technology in the industry. I believe Interplay is on the cutting edge when it comes to technical education, and I love being a part of it."

About

  • 32 years in the HVAC Industry
  • BPI Certified Building Analyst, Heating Professional and AC/Heat Pump Professional
  • President of Smith & Associates, specializing in tech training and certifications

Tim Smith, an Interplay Learning HVAC Expert fell into HVAC work a bit by accident. After losing his job as a hotel and restaurant manager, he leaned on a lifelong love of (and talent for) fixing electrical and mechanical systems to fuel a career shift, enrolling in an HVAC/R program at Hudson Valley Community College. He found the work interesting, challenging and he was great at it. Twenty-nine years later, after working in the field for a few decades, he returned to teach at his alma mater, serving as Senior Professor. Now helps shepherd techs through our VR and 3D HVAC learning modules as well.

 

Tim believes that HVAC professionals that truly excel are those who are at their core good communicators, able to relate to customers, have good reading comprehension and math skills, and are consummate professionals. Most of all, he believes that great techs are at their core problem solvers.

 

Connectedly, he’s a big believer in up-to-date training as a key step to becoming a better technician. “When I came to teach at Hudson Valley Community College, the HVAC Refrigeration program was very dated,” he says. “I authored an entirely  new curriculum, one that reflected current changes and technology in the industry. I believe Interplay is on the cutting edge when it comes to technical education, and I love being a part of it.”

 

Accreditations

  • President of Smith & Associates, providing HVACR Technical Training, Certification Testing and Residential Energy Audits 1993 to Present
  • Assistant Professor Heating Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technical Services, Hudson Valley Community College, Troy New York August 1990 to Present
  • BPI Certified Building Analyst, Heating Professional and AC/Heat Pump Professional

Education

  • B.S., Technical Education State University of New York at Oswego
  • Accredited, AOS Heating Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technical Services. Hudson Valley Community College