Mike has roots in the automotive service industry. He began diagnosing and fixing cars at a young age in his family’s service station. He has worked in automotive parts supply stores, towing companies, and service facilities.

After graduating from St. Cloud State University (MN) with a Bachelor’s degree, he implemented and taught a basic car care program at the high school level. During work on his Master’s degree at Illinois State University (IL), he was a curriculum specialist on a National Science Foundation project where he co-authored ten integrated mathematics, science, and technology books designed for team teaching. Most recently he supervised over 60 teachers in Career and Technology Education.

"Working in the towing industry I remember driving over 60 miles on a rural Minnesota road to put on a spare tire for a driver. The driver had the physical capability, tools, and a spare tire, but admittedly did not know how to change it. The cost to change the tire was well over $100. These encounters and my student teaching experience made it clear to me that basic car care education should be a focus for anyone who drives a car. Auto Upkeep was born."