Meet our team!
Management
Corporate
Corporate
Corporate
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Texas
Washington
North Carolina
Colorado
Estimating
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California
Texas
Washington
Colorado
Texas
Washington
Project Management
Texas
Colorado
Washington
North Carolina
Colorado
Washington
Washington
Texas
Colorado
Field Operations
Corporate
Colorado
Texas
North Carolina
Washington
California
Washington
Colorado
Accounting
Corporate
Accounts Receivable
Corporate
Accounts Payable
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Accounts Payable
Corporate
Administration
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Jason Gordon
Jason Gordon, President and CEO, graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in Construction Science & Management. A Kansas native, he gained early experience in the construction industry by working alongside his father in the acoustical ceiling business in San Diego. In 1998, Jason moved to Denver and established Heartland Acoustics & Interiors, which has since become a leading provider of acoustical ceilings and specialties. Married to his wife, Christi, for over 33 years, Jason enjoys spending time with their two children, working on personal projects in his garage, riding motorcycles, and exploring the Rocky Mountains.
Geoff Johnson
Geoff Johnson, Director of Estimating, was born in Ft. Stewart, Georgia, and grew up in various locations across the country due to his father’s Army career. After graduating high school in Virginia, Geoff followed in his father’s footsteps by joining the Army, where he served as a mechanic for four years. Following his military service, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering with an emphasis in Construction Engineering Management from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 2008. Outside of work, Geoff enjoys the outdoors year-round, with a passion for camping and fishing in the summer, and skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
Jed Wheeler
Jed Wheeler, Branch Manager – Washington, was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest and now resides near the Puget Sound with his three children. With over 20 years of experience in construction management and senior leadership roles within subcontracting, Jed excels in leading project teams to deliver exceptional results. His attention to detail has been key in collaborating with clients and partners to bring impressive projects to life. Outside of work, Jed finds peace near the salt water and enjoys exploring Seattle’s vibrant restaurant, winery, and brewery scene. He lives by the saying, “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.”
Clayton Sedmock
Clayton Sedmock, Field Superintendent – North Carolina, was born in Orange County, California, and began his construction career after graduating high school in 1981. With over 40 years of experience, including 30 years as an acoustical installer and 10 years as a project manager and superintendent, he brings deep industry knowledge and a hands-on approach to every project. In his free time, Clayton enjoys spending quality time with his children and pursuing outdoor hobbies like hunting and fishing.
Matt Behrman
Matt Behrman, Project Manager – Washington, lives in Arlington, WA, with his wife, Sarah, and their three children. Passionate about coaching youth sports, including football, soccer, volleyball, and Taekwondo, Matt enjoys teaching teamwork and serving as a role model. He finds fulfillment in helping young athletes appreciate the value of collaboration and perseverance. Matt carries these values into his career as a Project Manager, drawing on the knowledge and inspiration he has gained from working with many talented professionals. He looks forward to continuing this journey with the Heartland team.
Arthur Gutierrez
Arthur Gutierrez, Driver – Colorado, was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, where he remains a proud native. After high school, Arthur explored various professions, gaining extensive experience in management roles. He especially enjoyed his 13+ years in the culinary field, where he developed a passion for the craft. In his free time, Arthur enjoys helping his father, watching football, playing golf, and lifting weights. He has two adult children, both currently attending college.
Matt Richardson
Matt Richardson, Senior Estimator – San Antonio, was born and raised in south Texas and brings years of direct acoustic estimating experience to the Heartland team. With a background in drywall and acoustical construction, he has worked as an estimator, project manager, distribution representative, and manufacturer’s representative, giving him a well-rounded perspective on the industry. Matt now lives in a small town in the heart of cattle country with his wife, Courtney, and their three children, Jase, Ani, and Everly. He and his family are actively involved in 4H and FFA, fostering a deep connection to the agriculture industry. Outside of work, he stays busy balancing family life and his passion for the construction trade.
Matt Griese
Matt Griese, Senior Estimator – Washington, is originally from Wisconsin and is bringing over 13 years of construction experience on commercial building projects. He has worked for both national manufacturers and regional subcontractors, consistently providing clients with excellent pre-construction and estimating services. Matt currently lives on the east side of Seattle with his wife, Sarah, and their baby boy, Wade. In his spare time, he enjoys fishing and exploring all the natural beauty the Pacific Northwest has to offer.
Eddie Morales
Eddie Morales, Field Superintendent – Washington, is originally from Jalisco, Mexico and was raised in the Seattle area surrounded by a large and close-knit family. With over 13 years in the trades, Eddie started as a utility worker, progressed through an apprenticeship, and steadily advanced to his current role, all within the same company. Outside of work, he enjoys coffee dates and traveling with his wife, spending time with family at gatherings, and cheering on local teams at sporting events around Seattle.
Gabriel Roques
Gabriel Roques, Project Manager – North Carolina, was born in Warwick, New York, and raised in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. He earned his Civil Engineering degree in 2014 and his MBA in 2020. With over a decade of experience in construction, he has specialized in earthworks and highway projects, managing both field operations and project execution. Now based in North Carolina, Gabriel is embarking on a new chapter in his career, bringing his expertise in project management and construction to new opportunities in the United States. Outside of work, Gabriel enjoys watching movies, playing PlayStation, cooking, and discovering great food.
Chris Quade
Chris Quade, Project Manager – Colorado, was born in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Chris is well versed with nearly 30 years of hands-on experience in the construction industry. He began working in the trades at age 16, gaining expertise in tiling, stone countertops, and custom millwork. For the past decade, Chris has focused mostly on commercial custom millwork as a project manager. When he’s not working, he enjoys RV camping, skiing in the winter, and traveling with his wife and two daughters. Their favorite family getaway destination is Maui!
Dave Ronzio
Dave Ronzio, Field Superintendent – Colorado, brings over 25 years of industry experience and a business management background to his role, excelling in project planning, team leadership, and quality control. Based in Northern Colorado, Dave shares his home with his wife, Heather, their three children, a dog named Bear, and a unique collection of amphibians, spiders, snakes, and geckos. Passionate about the outdoors, Dave and his family love exploring Colorado’s mountains, rivers, and lakes with their pup.
Sherry Wilson
Sherry Wilson, Software Coordinator, grew up in Redwood City/Woodside, California, where she was active in basketball, softball, and horseback riding. Sherry began her construction career in 1999 as a lead receptionist for a door and millwork company in San Jose. After taking time off following the birth of her daughter, Zoey, in 2011, she and her husband, Chris, moved to Parker, Colorado. Sherry enjoys spending time with her family, whether traveling to visit relatives in California or New York, relaxing at home, or spending time outdoors. In winter, she loves making stews and gumbo between sledding runs. She also enjoys reading, cooking, swimming, and laughing until it hurts.
Brook Simmons
Brook Simmons, Estimator – Texas: Austin, is proudly Texas-born and raised. She graduated from Texas State Technical College in 2016 with an Associate Degree in Architectural Drafting and Design. Growing up around construction, with her parents running a concrete plant, Brook spent summers learning the industry firsthand. She is a proud mother of two boys, Dakoda and Parker, and her family enjoys camping, fishing, and hiking. Brook is always working on a project, whether it’s art or household endeavors.
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Ivan Tsougas
Ivan Tsougas, Branch Manager – Texas, grew up in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where he developed a strong work ethic working in the oilfields. After attending Eastern New Mexico University, Ivan worked in equipment rental for oilfields before discovering his passion for interiors as a sales representative for a construction materials distributor. After two years of supporting Heartland Acoustics as a supplier, he was thrilled to join the team directly and is eager to contribute to Heartland’s growth in Texas with top-notch customer service. Ivan met his wife, Bren, in high school, and they now have two children with whom they love spending time outdoors.
Jeff Barstad
Jeff Barstad, Director of Operations, brings 17 years of experience in residential and commercial remodeling to his role at Heartland Acoustics. He is excited to leverage his operational expertise and contribute to the team’s success across all branch locations. Originally from Selma, Alabama, Jeff relocated to Denver at age 14 but has maintained his passion for Alabama football. After high school, he met his wife, Virginia, and they have enjoyed 23 years together. They have one son, Bryant, who keeps them busy with year-round competitive baseball. In his free time, Jeff enjoys sports, movies, food, travel, and outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
Dionne Koehler
Dionne Koehler, Project Manager – Colorado, is originally from South Africa and immigrated to the U.S. in 2000. After studying Interior Design, she spent 12 years in the design community before transitioning to sales in 2012, working closely with designers, architects, and contractors to specify products—Heartland being a notable client. She is now excited to be a Project Manager for Heartland! Outside of work, Dionne enjoys practicing yoga, gardening, and occasionally savoring a good glass of wine. She stays busy with her daughter, two cats, and two energetic dogs.
Andrew DeFrancesco
Andrew DeFrancesco, Branch Manager – Colorado, is originally from Wixom, Michigan, and moved to Colorado in 2012. With a lifelong background in trades, primarily welding and carpentry, he has a strong passion for home renovation and custom millwork. After several years in custom millwork, Andrew transitioned into project management and is now a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with a solid foundation in commercial construction projects. Outside of work, he enjoys staying active with recreational sports like volleyball and tennis, hiking with his dog, and relaxing with family.
Courtney Gordon
Courtney Gordon, Executive Assistant, was born in Kansas and raised in Colorado, where she was inspired by the work ethic of her father and grandfather in the construction industry. Eight years ago, she moved to San Diego, where she now calls home. With experience in administrative roles, elementary education, and even as an aircraft carrier tour guide, Courtney brings a diverse skill set to Heartland. Outside of work, she enjoys reading on the beach, exploring new restaurants, and organizing themed events with friends.
Scott Barnett
Scott Barnett, Senior Estimator – Colorado, is a Michigan native who began his construction career in high school, working in roofing and framing. After high school, he joined the U.S. Navy, initially intending to serve in the Construction Battalion but ultimately training as a Machinist Mate. Following his four-year naval service, Scott spent 22 years in telecommunications before returning to his original passion for construction. He and his wife of over 20 years have two sons, both avid ice-hockey players. In his free time, Scott enjoys camping, brewing beer, and using his smoker at every opportunity.
Derick Garcia
Derick Garcia, Project Assistant – Texas: San Antonio, was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, and has over 20 years of construction experience. With an early affinity for tools, he spent summers learning the trade from his father and grandfather, developing skills in painting, acoustical ceilings, and metal stud framing. Now at Heartland Acoustics & Interiors, Derick applies his hands-on expertise to every project. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, camping with loved ones, and spending time with his two dogs, Nia and Charlie.
Ricky Garcia
Ricky Garcia, Field Superintendent – Texas, was raised in San Antonio, where he learned the value of hard work from his contractor father. After graduating from Edgewood High School in 1988, he earned an Associate’s Degree in Electronic Engineering and has since accumulated over 25 years of experience in the commercial industry. Ricky joined Heartland in 2018 and is excited to continue contributing to this dynamic field.
Valencia Leach
Valencia Leach, Accounting Specialist – Accounts Receivable, was raised in Oceanside, CA. After high school, she attended college in Los Angeles for a few years before returning to San Diego County, where she secured the position of Office Manager at Heartland Acoustics. Valencia spent eight years with the California branch before joining a general contractor in 2016. In early 2019, her family relocated to Southern Maryland due to military orders, and she was welcomed back to Heartland as a remote Accounting Assistant. Valencia is happily married to her husband, Dan, and they have two children: Payton and Scarlet. In their free time, they enjoy exploring restaurants, tackling home improvement projects, maintaining their farm, and raising Thoroughbred horses for the racetrack.
Rusty Benoit
Rusty Benoit, Installation Specialist, was born in Pasadena, California, and began his career in acoustical ceilings in 1982. Known for tackling complex installations, Rusty has gained extensive knowledge of the commercial construction industry through his work with both specialty and general contractors. In 1993, he and his family relocated to Colorado, where they enjoy fishing, camping, and working on cars and bikes together.
Micheal Swift
Micheal Swift, Accounting Specialist – Accounts Payable, originally from Long Beach, CA, has two beautiful daughters, Lauren and Danielle. The family relocated to the High Desert when the girls were young to create their own little farm, complete with three horses and five dogs. Micheal worked for a general contractor for 10 years before moving to the San Antonio area, where she worked for the City of Johnson City. She relocated to Denver in 2019, but her heart led her back to California, where she works as a remote Accounting Assistant for Heartland. In her spare time, Micheal enjoys going to the beach, attending live music events, and trying out new restaurants.
Marnie Bachman
Marnie Bachman, Accounting Manager, brings nearly 20 years of experience in the accounting field and over a decade specializing in construction accounting. Born and raised in North Dakota, she moved to Colorado at age 16 and now considers herself a native. Marnie and her husband, Andrew, are proud parents of two children and recent empty nesters. A creative cook, Marnie enjoys testing new recipes with her family, as well as traveling, golfing, reading, and spending time with their two dogs, Charley and Willow.
Bea Judge
Bea Judge, Accounting Specialist – Accounts Payable, was born in Corpus Christi and grew up in Houston, Texas. In 1999, she transferred to Denver with Continental Airlines (now United Airlines) alongside her wonderful husband, David, and their five children. Bea is also a proud grandmother to four grandchildren. With over 35 years in the airline industry, she now works part-time in Accounting for Heartland, bringing nearly 40 years of experience in the accounting field. Bea’s extensive travels with her family fuel their passion for exploring the world, and they are actively involved in their church community. Their motto is: work hard, play hard!
Jeff Howard
Jeff Howard, Senior Estimator, was born and raised in Pensacola, Florida, where he met his wife of over 30 years. Together, they have three children and a grandson. Jeff’s construction career began over 30 years ago after serving in the Army, starting in the acoustical ceiling industry and progressing from apprentice to general foreman and now estimator. Outside of work, he can often be found on his boat fishing or at the beach. He enjoys learning about and bidding on the latest ceiling and wall designs in the industry.
Aris Matteis
Aris Matteis, Senior Estimator – California, was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and recently relocated to San Diego with his fiancée, Lexie, and their dachshund, Sandy. A graduate of Georgia College with a degree in Business Management, Aris has worked in the commercial interiors industry since college. In his free time, he enjoys exploring the outdoors and mountain biking.
Sean McCarthy
Sean McCarthy, Estimator – Colorado, is a Colorado native who grew up playing travel hockey, spending time with family, and enjoying summers by the pool. He graduated in 2017 from Colorado Mesa University with a major in Construction Management and a minor in Business. He began his construction career as a project engineer and estimator for a small general contractor before joining a drywall and acoustical ceilings company. He is excited to join the Heartland team this year. Outside of work, Sean enjoys skiing in the winter and golfing in the summer.
Ryan Cossoff
Ryan Cossoff, Estimator – Colorado, is a Denver native who grew up playing competitive soccer, reaching all the way to the Colorado team level before an ACL injury redirected his path. After attending East High School, he earned a degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Ryan began his career with Richmond Homes as a National Estimator, later specializing in glazing projects at J.R. Butler. In addition to his career in construction, Ryan is passionate about audio engineering and music production, teaching sound design on YouTube and occasionally giving one-on-one lessons.
Courtney Rush
Courtney Rush, Estimator – North Carolina, began her construction career in Virginia as a concrete laborer specializing in residential foundations, crawl spaces, and basement walls. After earning a bachelor’s degree in architectural design, she spent several years drafting home plans for a local developer, where she also handled project estimating responsibilities. With over 16 years of experience, Courtney has developed expertise in estimating residential, multifamily, commercial, and industrial projects. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring creek beds and wooded areas for crystals and minerals, and cycling on Raleigh’s biking trails.
Brandon Moore
Brandon Moore, Project Manager – Texas: Austin, grew up just outside of Atlanta and moved to Las Vegas with his wife after graduating college. After several years in Las Vegas, Brandon and his wife moved to Denver to be closer to family, where he established his career in commercial construction as a project manager and superintendent. The family enjoyed spending time at their Steamboat Springs ranch, partaking in snow sports, horseback riding, and four-wheeling. They later relocated to Austin, Texas, where Brandon now enjoys the laid-back pace of a small town just south of the city.
Brody Philips
Brody Philips, Project Manager – Colorado, was born and raised in Tuscarawas, Ohio, where he gained hands-on experience in residential projects, including carpentry, roofing, electrical work, and finish trades. In 2016, he and his wife moved to Colorado, settling in Parker, where Brody began his career in commercial construction, eventually joining the Heartland team. Outside of work, he is an avid guitarist and live music fan who enjoys working on vehicles and spending time outdoors fishing, hiking with his dogs, or riding motorcycles.
Fernando Nanita
Fernando Nanita, Branch Manager – North Carolina, was born and raised in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, where he earned his degree in Civil Engineering before completing a master’s in Structural Design in Barcelona, Spain. With over 15 years of experience in the construction industry, Fernando has developed a strong passion for building and design. In his free time, he enjoys golfing and playing baseball. Fernando draws inspiration from his family, who remain his greatest motivators. He believes life is a journey of growth and connection, and he is grateful for the mentors, family, and friends who have helped shape his path in construction.
Brooklyn Wheeler
Brooklyn Wheeler, Project Coordinator – Washington, is originally from Lake Stevens, Washington, and now resides in Woodinville with her boyfriend, Austin, and their two cats, Angus and Birdie. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Physics and Environmental Science from Central Washington University. Since entering the construction industry in 2020, Brooklyn has been pursuing a master’s in education. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring local coffee spots, visiting the beach, taking weekend trips to Cle Elum, attending Mariners games, and spending time with family.
Garrett Ness
Garrett Ness, Estimator – Washington, grew up in Gig Harbor, Washington, and now lives in Tacoma with his dachshund, Shorty. Spending summers on the Puget Sound, he developed a love for fishing, crabbing, and boating. Garrett earned a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Philosophy from Central Washington University in 2020, overcoming a year full of challenges. Passionate about fly fishing and golf, he also enjoys coaching high school and college lacrosse. Garrett is excited to contribute his skills to the Heartland team.
Dena Baldwin
Dena Baldwin, Human Resources Consultant, a proud Colorado native, found her calling in Human Resources early on and has over 29 years of experience in the industry. In 2003, she established Dena Baldwin HR Consulting, providing HR services to small to mid-sized businesses in sectors such as healthcare, legal, hospitality, and construction. In 2019, Dena and her family relocated out of state to live on a farm and devote more time to serving others. A proud mother of four, Dena enjoys hiking, biking, spending time with animals, and taking rides—whether on horseback or her husband’s Harley Davidson motorcycle, both of which she finds equally glorious.
Debi Koteles-Torres
Debi Koteles-Torres, Project Assistant – Colorado, was born and raised in South Jersey before moving to Texas in 2008 and then to Colorado in 2013. With over 15 years of experience in administrative roles, 12 of which have been in construction—9 specifically focused on Acoustic Ceilings and Walls—she brings extensive expertise to her work. Debi’s son remains happily in Texas. She and her “husfriend,” Kevin, have been together for over 10 years. A self-described nerd, Debi spends most evenings immersed in an MMORPG, where she leads raids as a Guild Leader. She is thrilled to join the Heartland team and looks forward to years of growth.
Brandon Hansen
Brandon Hansen, Field Superintendent – Washington, is a Washington native whose daughter inspires him daily. Together, they enjoy outdoor adventures with friends and family. Brandon joined the Local 41 Carpenters Union in 2014 and became a Superintendent in 2019. He thrives on working closely with his field crew, finding solutions, and motivating his team to achieve new heights. Brandon is excited to continue learning and growing with the Heartland team.
Jose Gonzalez
Jose Gonzalez, Field Superintendent – California, is a San Diego native with over 38 years of experience in the construction industry, specializing in acoustical ceilings. Starting as an apprentice, he eventually owned and operated his own business for 14 years, working across the United States with a focus on California and the Pacific Northwest. Jose is committed to excellence in every task, setting a strong example of hard work for his three sons, daughter, and grandson. He values time with his family and takes pride in instilling a solid work ethic in his children.
Daniel Magallon
Daniel Magallon, Project Assistant – Washington, was born and raised in Eastern Washington, where he developed a passion for residential construction, learning framing and interior finishing from family members. After high school, he studied construction management at the University of Washington and began his career at an acoustical company before joining L&W Supply in Redmond. There, he expanded his expertise in framing, drywall, acoustical, and specialty products, eventually returning to the acoustical division to work on unique projects with Heartland. In his free time, Daniel enjoys racing cars competitively, snowboarding, skiing, and spending time with his wife and two daughters.
