Aaron Butt

Aaron has been working in the field of high-end custom home building and renovation for more than 20 years. Prior to that, he learned the basics of the trade at a very young age from his father. Early in his career he found himself drawn to technical process, efficiency, and a desire for proficiency in any part of the trade he touched. He discovered a love of showing others what he knew and sharing the things he had learned. This love of teaching brought him to stint instructing carpentry and woodworking full time at the historic North Bennet Street School in Boston, MA. Aaron brings a passion for excellence to all aspects of fine homebuilding and remodeling, whether through in person workshops, online educational video, or social media content.

Aaron Miiller

Aaron Miiller is a 4th generation carpenter from a rural area in the south - Corning, Arkansas. Specializing in residential remodeling, Aaron enjoys sharing with others the smaller more overlooked details of accomplishing jobsite tasks. Whether it's hanging siding, remodeling a bathroom, or installing exposed fastener metal roofing, he enjoys a variety of challenges.  He has been featured in The Journal of Light Construction and continues to provide how-to videos online. When he's not remodeling, you can find him racing down the trails in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas on his ATV or calling the Hogs at a Razorbacks football game. 

Addison Oliveira

Addison Oliveira has been a hands-on learner, tinkering with different projects to understand how things work. He was introduced to a vo-tech program (WACTC) in his freshman year of high school and loved the idea of being active, outside, working with my hands, learning all the different aspects of construction. While in the program, he worked with Mike Guertin on a high-performance build. Addison was very fascinated by science and the reasons for why building a high-performance home is so important. He started working for Mike Guertin, trying to obtain his knowledge. Eventually he was introduced to JLC LIVE and had the opportunity to work with a great group of people learning about all the new products and procedures. On his free time Addison likes to travel and stay active by hiking, biking, kayaking, snowboarding, dirt biking and tinkering on various projects. He always tries to experience and learn new things.

ARON JONES, RSE

Co-founder and supervisor at Big Dog Construction Inc. Grand Manan, New Brunswick, Canada with his first career in the military leading him to become a Construction Tech, Aron has been a teacher and mentor to apprentices in the carpentry trade for many years. Receiving his Carpentry Red Seal in 2002, Aron has always endeavored to build better whenever possible. He has a true passion for building science and strives to help others understand it so that the industry as a whole can become better. He features all his hands on experience on his social media platforms so anyone can learn from his experiences. Passing on his skills and knowledge to others, particularly the next generation, is very important to him. " It's not about being the best, it’s about making everyone better!"  He co-founded International Flashing Awareness Day in 2021, an annual Instagram event to demonstrate why flashings are important to a building and what happens when they are not installed or used properly. He is co-host of BS* and Beer Canada every month online. One of Aron’s favorite sayings is, “I like to be the dumbest guy in a room full of BS* people.” (*Building Science)

BARRETT SITES

Barrett was born and raised in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.  He has been married for 35 years and has two grown daughters and 4 granddaughters.  He has always owned his own home and has done all his own repairs and remodels.

As a young man, Barrett has always loved working with his hands.  He was always fixing things by taking things apart and putting them back together.  He has been blessed with a mechanical mind.  Over the years, he has become very successful working with his hands.

In 2000, Barrett started his own business, Handyman Home Improvement, a small construction company doing home repairs and renovations.  He loves giving back and has been involved in missionary work in Latin America for more than 25 years doing various building projects.  During this time, he had the opportunity meeting Gary Streigler in Honduras, who is a master carpenter.  Barrett has had the opportunity to work with Gary over the years and considers him a great mentor.  He has had the opportunity to assist in many builders shows over the United States as well as helping with many classes on fine woodworking at Marc Adams School of fine wood working.  He has also had the opportunity to join the Grex team selling tools.  He is involved with Dewalt and Milwaukee tools, testing, and giving feedback based on his own experiences.  Barrett has also written several articles in the JLC Live (Journal of Light Construction)

He is a self-taught craftsman and a jack of all trades.  He gets his greatest joy helping others make their dream projects come true.

Billy Dillon

Billy Dillon brings over four decades of comprehensive construction expertise, beginning with his Carpentry Apprenticeship through a Union Program in the late 1970s. His distinguished career encompasses large-scale commercial projects including major hotels and high-rise construction, as well as specialized marine carpentry at Bethlehem Steel's Hoboken shipyard, where he contributed to luxury accommodations for the QE2 and numerous commercial vessels. Mr. Dillon has successfully completed hundreds of multi-family housing developments, ranging from low-income to senior housing projects, while also establishing himself in the custom residential market through numerous bespoke home constructions. His career culminated with his relocation to Martha's Vineyard, where he joined South Mountain Company, a respected design-build firm, eventually advancing to become an owner-partner and combining his extensive construction knowledge with business leadership in the integrated design-build industry.

Connor Malloy

Connor Malloy is a designer, builder, and educator with over 17 years of experience in sustainable construction and architectural design. Based in Toronto, he currently serves as a Professor and Program Coordinator at George Brown College’s School of Apprenticeship and Skilled Trades, where he led the relaunch of the Building Renovation program with a focus on passive house principles and applied building science.

Connor also trains professionals across Ontario through Passive House Canada and holds certifications including Passive House Tradesperson, LEED AP Homes, and Net Zero Builder. He is the co-founder of WallAssembly.com, a platform that fosters knowledge-sharing for students around high-performance assemblies and best practices.

With a strong background in real-world construction—from directing award-winning deep energy retrofits to managing over 80 custom residential projects—Connor brings a blend of field-tested expertise and academic insight. His work integrates sustainability, interdisciplinary learning, and practical solutions for advancing building performance.

Connor is a sought-after speaker and workshop leader, having presented at industry events such as the International Builders’ Show (IBS). Passionate about empowering the next generation of tradespeople and builders, he remains a committed advocate for high-performance, climate-resilient construction.

Eric Aune

Minnesotan Eric Aune is a licensed Master Plumber and mechanical contractor with over twenty years of experience working with the tools, teaching trade school technical classes and running his small plumbing & heating business.

Eric has found an extra 24 hours in the day to co-own and operate mechanical-hub.com, a digital media company focused on the plumbing, hvac and mechanical trades and to be a contributor and Build Expert for the Buildshownetwork.com

Eric's passionate about working in the trades and advocates the career opportunities the skilled trades can offer. He works to spread the word thru his enthusiasm and love for the applied sciences and math required to do the kind of work it takes to makes our homes livable. He is a husband, dad and servant to his beagle Ringo.

JEREMY KASSEL

Jeremy Kassel has worked in the building trades since 2003, and created Kassel Construction in his hometown of Syracuse, New York in 2005.  Jeremy moved to the Albany, New York area in 2010, and quickly gained traction as a Capital District contractor.  Although he loves new construction, Jeremy’s primary work is residential remodeling, with a customer-centric approach to jobsite-management and problem-solving.  He excels at building relationships with vendors, suppliers, and fellow tradespeople.  Jeremy has written articles for The Journal of Light Construction, Fine Homebuilding, Toolbox Buzz, and others.  He has been involved with JLC Live since 2021 in many capacities, including teaching at the conference, presenting on the show floor, and working behind the scenes on the build crew.  In his spare time, Jeremy enjoys racing BMX and spending time in the Adirondacks.  Jeremy resides outside of Albany, New York with his wife and 2 daughters. 

Joe Canning

As a skilled framing carpenter, Joe Canning excels in both custom and production framing in the residential sector. With nearly three decades in the trade, he has not only exceptional skills on the tools but also the experience to know what works and what doesn’t. His dedication to the craft and enthusiasm for his profession are evident in every project he undertakes. He is recognized as the "Canadian Carpenter" on social media where he strives to educates others. Demonstrating various tools, carpentry techniques, promoting task efficiency and higher skill in the carpentry trade. Joe's passion for his trade and commitment to quality craftsmanship motivate him to pass on his knowledge to the next generation of carpenters and trades people.

Kelsey Spencer

Kelsey Spencer is a Red Seal carpenter residing on beautiful Grand Manan Island. Working with Big Dog Construction, Kelsey brings skill and precision to every project. With a passion for building and hands on work, Kelsey is dedicated to crafting quality structures that stand the test of time. Outside of work Kelsey enjoys tending her many animals and spending lots of time outdoors.

Mike Davis 

With over twenty years of experience in the trades, Mike has built a successful career rooted in his passion for construction and service. As the owner of Davis Custom Contracting for over 24 years, he has focused on residential remodeling, building, and historical restoration. He also runs Davis Property Investments, a business he's managed for 14 years. Mike is an all-around Carpenter and Electrician, trained through apprenticeships, classes, and seminars, including many courses at JLC Live events.  Mike is a full-time building trades instructor and adjunct faculty member at Vincennes University and Ivy Tech Community College. He also teaches classes in his traveling workshops for new homeowners, instructing them on how to do basic remodeling and repairs in their homes.

Mike is a self-proclaimed WWII history enthusiast with a love for trivia and podcasts. He is an instrument-rated commercial pilot, certified fire inspector and investigator, and an aviation insurance agent. Mike’s life is as dynamic as it is inspiring. He is dedicated to his family, his community, and his craft, as evidenced in everything he does. Whether he’s constructing homes, sharing his knowledge with others, or embarking on his next adventure, he brings a unique energy and warmth to all that he does.  

Mike Deale

Mike Deale lives on Long Island New York. He has been a professional roofer for 32 years. He excelled in Residential roofing first and then started working for a commercial outfit. In 1998 he ventured out and started his own roofing company and has mastered it ever since. Mike has completed roofing projects at JFK International Airport, Stonybrook University, Department of Environmental Protection Agency and Coast Guard Stations in Moriches and in Montauk New York. Mike appreciates the challenge of roofing specifically the aspects of organizational solutions and forethought with various roofing applications. Such as garden roofs, parking garages and high traffic roofing systems to name a few. Outside of his roofing business Mike likes playing basketball, bike riding, hiking, and truly loves an endless game of golf.

MIKE GUERTIN

The only thing Mike Guertin likes better than building new homes is remodeling old ones. After 35 years tackling every facet of residential construction from excavation and foundations to interior finish work and tile setting, he’s still challenged every day to find more-efficient ways to build things better. Mike has led hands-on building clinics and classroom presentations at JLC LIVE, Remodeling Show and DeckExpo, International Builders Show, International Roofing Expo and other construction trade shows and events across North America for the past 23 years on topics from roofing, siding, framing and deck construction, to kitchen remodeling, and high performance building.  He's written 3 books, over 180 magazine articles for the Journal of Light Construction, Fine Homebuilding, Professional Deck Builder and Tools of the Trade, and appears in dozens of videos.  Mike works hard and plays hard so don't be surprised if you bump into him above 10,000 ft. hiking through a mountain meadow; kayaking coastal bays or swift water rivers; or backcountry skiing in a remote forest.

Mike Nemeth

Mike Nemeth was born in the early 70's on Long Island, New York. One of three boys, he spent his childhood playing outdoors, boating and hanging out with his friends.  His first car was a Mustang GT.  Mike married Dana in the early 90's and they purchased their first home in Middle Island shortly thereafter.  He enjoys maintaining and improving his home and property. 

His career started in the kitchen of a nursing home, but when an opportunity to work as a carpenter came up, he jumped at the chance.  This led to him working for L. Martone Roofing which specialized in both commercial and residential roofing applications.  In 2004 the opportunity to own his own business became a reality. His company DNA Contracting Inc. is well-versed in a variety of roofing-systems and is an authorized contractor for some of the most trusted roofing manufacturers.  In addition to working in the 5 boroughs of New York with his partner Michael Deale and their employees, he has traveled to do volunteer work in New Jersey, Texas, and Florida to repair and replace roofs for those whose homes were destroyed by natural disasters. 

Mike has spent decades working on roofs at airports, retail stores, libraries, hospitals, universities, and schools as well as homes, apartments, and condominiums. He still finds time to enjoy fishing, hunting, golfing, traveling, and spending time with his Rottweiler Kobe.

MIKE SLOGGATT

Mike Sloggatt has more than 40 years’ experience in the trade starting right out of high school in 1972, taking a short break to get his college degree before opening his own contracting business in 1979. Mike is now semi-retired and is a consultant to builders, manufacturers & homeowners for challenging remodels near his home on Long Island. He is a contributor to the Journal of Light Construction and writes for Fine Homebuilding and Tools of the Trade. Mike has been the Frame-to-Finish (Rough) Carpentry presenter for the Katz Roadshow. He teaches seminars and clinics in all aspects of carpentry and remodeling all over the United States and is a regular presenter at JLC LIVE for the past 22 years, Remodeling Show and International Builders’ Show. When not on the road or enjoying his time with his grandchildren, you might find Mike & his wife Laura fishing the beaches of Long Island in their custom-built truck camper. 

MYRON FERGUSON

Myron is a fourth generation NYS Building Contractor, with 40 years as a drywall contractor. He is the author of the bestselling book, Drywall; Professional Techniques for Great Results, (4th Edition), as well as a 1-hour companion video. When he is not getting his hands dirty with his drywall contracting company, he travels the country teaching drywall and related topics at trade shows, lumberyards, tech schools and construction companies. Myron is BPI certified in building envelope and as a building analyst. He is also a green building verifier. Myron is currently helping the local Habitat for Humanity Affiliate as their construction manager. It’s a great fit for him in this position with all the years of experience he gained in the construction industry along with education from the construction management courses he took. Myron is a regular contributor to Fine Homebuilding, Journal of Light Construction, and Walls and Ceilings magazine.

NIELSEN CRIST

Before Nielsen was strong enough to carry block and strip forms for his father’s company, he was carrying block and stripping forms for his father’s company. He moved on to framing and trimming buildings for the next few decades. Always excited to find a better way, Nielsen enjoys learning and sharing information with fellow tradespeople. Along with operating his own construction company, Nielsen has presented at various trade shows and written for the Journal of Light Construction and Fine Homebuilding magazine. He also offers on-site crew-training and construction consulting services. 

Nielsen loves surfing, loud music, spending time with a certain pretty, dark-haired woman, and breakfast foods

PETER HEARD

Peter Heard is the owner of North Country Carpentry & Restoration, Inc. operating on the east end of Long Island, New York. More than 30 years, Peter has been restoring homes from the mid to late 19th century. Peter has built a solid reputation by satisfying the design and finish needs of purist homeowners.

PETER MANISERO

Peter Manisero is a Carpentry school graduate who began attending JLC LIVE as an apprentice in 2023. Through his trade schooling, he earned his OSHA certification and gained experience on multiple projects, including shed construction, deck building, and framing. He primarily works in plumbing and HVAC, and continues to do carpentry jobs on the side. He strives to continue learning and aspires to purchase homes to renovate. He loves the time he spends at JLC LIVE, where he can continually broaden his horizons, deepen his knowledge, and build relationships with experienced professionals. He lives in Bristol, PA, with his family and a variety of pets and enjoys fishing, the outdoors, and exploring.

ROSS TRETHEWAY

Ross Trethewey is the founder and lead engineer of TE2 Engineering, as well as the Home Technology Expert on the TV show, This Old House, and Ask This Old House.

TE2 Engineering is a consulting engineering firm that provides building energy analysis, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design, and renewable energy design for clients in both the residential and commercial markets. The company’s focus is high-performance HVAC design, renewable energy design and integrated smart home design.

Ross has lent his expertise to This Old House since 2011, contributing to stories about renewable energy that looked at solar power, wind power, geothermal, and off-grid storage. He became a regular presence on Ask This Old House in 2016 with the launch of “Future House”, a segment that looks at the impact technology will have on how we build and live in our houses.

Ross earned Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in mechanical engineering from Tufts University in Massachusetts. He is also a professional engineer. Prior to forming his own consulting company, he lived and worked in Germany for a manufacturer that specializes in high-efficiency HVAC and renewable energy equipment.

Ross lives in the Boston area with his wife and two young sons. He learned to sail at an early age and loves to spend as much time on the water as possible.

RYAN SMITH

Ryan Smith is a full-time framing carpenter who specializes in custom roof framing and cutting. Owner operator of Roof Cutters Inc. www.roofcutters.com. Ryan spends his days figuring and cutting complex custom roofs on some of the finest homes in his area Buffalo/Niagara Falls region of NY. (Western NY). Ryan has developed a system to figure and cut entire roof systems before all the walls are built and stood! When he isn't cutting roofs systems and framing custom homes, he enjoys spending time with his three children and his wife. He enjoys hunting, fishing, and model aviation. "Always do the right thing even if no one will ever see it again." 

TONY MCKLEM

Tony began his construction experience by volunteering to a good cause and that lead him to discover his true passion... building dreams into a reality. With more than 15 years in the industry, Tony and his team have developed their skills to suit every customer and home. Starting each project with quality in mind, they never sacrifice desires and needs. After serving customers in both areas of Hollywood, California and Hollywood, Florida, they have realized that no two yards are the same. Its their goal is to build an incredible space in homes today, which the entire family will enjoy for years to come.

Tony comenzó su experiencia en construcción siendo voluntario para una buena causa y eso le llevó a descubrir su verdadera pasión... a convertir los sueños en una realidad. Con más de 15 años en la industria, Tony y su equipo han elaborado sus habilidades para adaptarse a cada cliente y hogar. Empezando cada proyecto teniendo en cuenta la calidad, nunca sacrifican los deseos y las necesidades. Después de haber atendido a clientes en las áreas de Hollywood, California y Hollywood, Florida, se han dado cuenta de que no hay dos yardas iguales. Su objetivo es construir un increíble espacio en las casas hoy, que toda la familia disfrutará en los años por venir.

Zachary Wood

Zachary grew up on job sites across Long Island, NY, learning the trade by working alongside his dad and observing the techniques and efficiencies of a skilled solo carpenter. As he got older, he honed his craft at a custom cabinet shop, where he worked on high-end millwork, furniture, and cabinetry.

Today, Zachary runs his own company specializing in custom cabinetry, millwork, and trim installation. His approach combines efficiency with meticulous attention to detail, always going the extra mile to ensure exceptional results. He brings a cabinet maker's mindset to every finish carpentry project, blending precision with craftsmanship.

Outside of work, Zachary enjoys playing hockey, surfing, and traveling.