Mike was born and raised near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He grew up with all kinds of pets and always enjoyed interacting with animals.
He graduated from Penn State University with degrees in International Business, Business Economics, and a Master’s in Business Administration.
After moving around the United States with a couple of different companies, Mike and his wife bought a property in the country – just down the road from the Main Campus of the School for Dog Trainers in North Carolina. He saw the Highland vans on his commute to his office job and decided it was time for a change.
In 2023, Mike decided to follow his dream of working with animals and left the corporate world to attend the 24-Week Master Dog Trainer Program at the School for Dog Trainers. He graduated as an honor student, a recipient of the Student Excellence award, a member of Alpha Beta Kappa Honor Society, and as Valedictorian of his class.
In his time as a student, and during the Highland Internship, Mike found his passion in training Service Dogs for people with disabilities. He saw the difference that dogs can make in the lives of people and the passion and integrity Highland brings to the industry.
He now works as Director of the Service Dog Division at Highland Canine Training.
Outside of work, Mike runs an apiary, keeps chickens, and continues to work on hobby projects around his property.