Meet our team!
Management
Texas
Washington
North Carolina
Colorado
Estimating
Colorado
Washington
North Carolina
California
Colorado
Texas
Colorado
North Carolina
Project Management
Colorado
Texas
Colorado
Colorado
North Carolina
Washington
Washington
Washington
Texas
Washington
Field Operations
Colorado
Colorado
Texas
Washington
California
North Carolina
Colorado
Colorado
Washington
Accounting
Accounts Receivable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Administration
Jason Gordon
Jason Gordon, a Kansas native, graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in Construction Science & Management. With a strong foundation in the construction industry—thanks to his father’s career in the acoustical ceiling business—Jason was mentored early on, working alongside his father in San Diego for five years. In 1998, he moved to Denver and founded Heartland Acoustics & Interiors. Under his leadership, the company has grown into a leading provider of acoustical ceilings and interior specialties, known for its commitment to quality and sustainability.
Jason has been married to his wife, Christi, for nearly 30 years, and they have two children. When he’s not spending time with his family, Jason enjoys working on personal projects in his garage, riding motorcycles, and exploring the Rocky Mountains.
Geoff Johnson
Geoff Johnson was born in Ft. Stewart, Georgia, and grew up in various locations as his father’s Army career took the family across the country. 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 pursued higher education, earning 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 was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest and now lives near Puget Sound in Mukilteo, Washington, 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 deep appreciation for detail has been instrumental in collaborating with clients and partners to bring impressive projects to life. Outside work, Jed finds peace near the salt water, exploring Seattle’s vibrant restaurant, winery, and brewery scene. He lives by the saying, “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.”
Darke LeRoy
Drake LeRoy, born and raised in Illinois, spent eight years as a commercial carpenter in St. Louis, focusing on interior systems and large-scale construction projects. In 2023, he transitioned into project management, where his extensive hands-on experience and strong understanding of the construction process have become invaluable. Outside of work, Drake enjoys working on cars, tackling home improvement projects, and spending time outdoors with his fiancée, Michelle, and their two dogs.
Clayton Sedmock
Born in Orange County, California, Clayton Sedmock graduated high school in 1981 and began a career in construction that has spanned over 40 years. With 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, he enjoys spending quality time with his children and pursuing outdoor hobbies like hunting and fishing.
Matt Behrman
Matt Behrman lives in Arlington, WA, with his wife, Sarah, and their three children. Matt takes pride in coaching youth sports, including football, soccer, volleyball, and Taekwondo and is passionate about teaching teamwork and being a role model. Helping young athletes understand the value and rewards of collaboration and perseverance is where he finds reward. Matt carries those values into his career as a Project Manager. He has had the privilege of working with and learning from many inspiring professionals and is looking forward to much the same within his role at Heartland.
Arthur Gutierrez
Arthur Gutierrez was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, where he has remained a proud native. After high school, he pursued a variety of professions, gaining extensive experience and often working in management roles. Of his career ventures, Arthur most enjoyed his 13+ years in the culinary field, where he honed his skills and developed a passion for the craft. In his free time, he enjoys helping his father, watching football, playing golf, and lifting weights. Arthur has two adult children, both currently attending college.
Justin Cabiling
Born in Orion Bataan, Philippines, and raised in Washington from the age of five, Justin Cabiling has spent the last four years immersed in the interior and acoustical industry. Starting as a utility worker, Justin later joined the union, progressing to an installer role over three years. Now focused on expanding his expertise, he is excited to explore new opportunities with Heartland on the project management side. Outside of work, Justin enjoys live concerts, traveling, golfing, working on cars, and skiing, always seeking new adventures.
Dave Ronzio
Dave Ronzio has a passion for life and eagerly takes on each day’s challenges. As a skilled Field Superintendent, with 25+ years of industry experience, and a business management background, Dave thrives in project planning, team leadership, and quality control. Dave calls Northern Colorado his home, that he shares with his wife Heather and their 3 children, along with their small amphibian collection, spiders, snakes, geckos, and his dog, Bear. Dave and his family love exploring Colorado’s mountains, rivers, and lakes with their pup.
Sherry Wilson
Sherry Wilson grew up in Redwood City/Woodside, California, where she attended school and played basketball and softball. She grew up riding horses and competing in horse shows, a pastime she still enjoys. Sherry began her career in the construction industry in 1999 as a lead receptionist for a door and millwork company in San Jose. She took some time off after her daughter, Zoey, was born in 2011, and in 2012, she and her husband, Chris, moved to Parker, Colorado. Sherry enjoys spending time with her family, whether it’s relaxing at home, traveling to see family in California or New York, or spending summer days at the pool or lake. In winter, you’ll find her making stews or gumbo between sledding runs. Sherry loves to read, cook, travel, swim, and laugh until it hurts.
Brook Simmons
Texas-born and raised, Brook Simmons graduated from Texas State Technical College in 2016 with an Associate Degree in Architectural Drafting and Design. She grew up around construction, with her parents running a concrete plant, and spent summers learning the industry firsthand. Brook is a proud mother of two boys, Dakoda and Parker. Her family enjoys camping, fishing, and hiking, and she always has a project on the go, from art to household endeavors.
Ivan Tsougas
Ivan Tsougas grew up in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where he developed a strong work ethic working in the oilfields. He met his wife, Bren, in high school, and they now have two children with whom they love spending time outdoors. 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.
Jeff Barstad
Jeff Barstad, originally from Selma, Alabama, relocated to Denver at 14 but kept his passion for Alabama football. After high school, he met his wife, Virginia, with whom he’s happily shared 16 years of marriage and 23 years together. They have one son, Bryant, who keeps them busy with year-round competitive baseball. Jeff’s interests span sports, movies, food, and travel, and he loves outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. With 17 years of experience in residential and commercial remodeling, Jeff joined Heartland Acoustics, excited to leverage his operational expertise in his new role and contribute to the team’s success.
Dionne Koehler
Dionne Koehler originated from South Africa and immigrated to the U.S. in 2000. After studying Interior Design, she spent her first 12 years in the U.S. within the design community before transitioning to sales in 2012. In her sales role, she worked closely with designers, architects, and contractors to specify her represented products, with Heartland as a notable client. Outside of work, she enjoys practicing yoga, gardening, and occasionally enjoying a glass of good wine. Dionne stays busy with her daughter, two cats, and two energetic dogs.
Andrew DeFrancesco
Originally from Wixom, Michigan, Andrew DeFrancesco moved to Colorado in 2012. With a lifelong background in trades, primarily in welding and carpentry, he has a strong passion for carpentry and home renovation. After relocating to Colorado, Andrew spent several years building custom millwork before transitioning into project management. Andrew is recognized as a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with a strong foundation in commercial construction projects. Outside of work, Andrew enjoys staying active with recreational sports, such as volleyball and tennis, hiking with his dog, and just relaxing with family.
Courtney Gordon
Courtney Gordon was born in Kansas and raised in Colorado, where she grew up around the construction industry, inspired by the work ethic and passion of her father and grandfather. Eight years ago, she moved to San Diego and found her home there. With experience in administrative roles, elementary education, and even as an aircraft carrier tour guide, she brings a unique blend of skills to Heartland. Outside of work, she loves reading on the beach, exploring new restaurants, and organizing themed events with friends.
Scott Barnett
Scott Barnett, a Michigan native, began his construction career in high school, working in roofing and framing. After high school, he joined the U.S. Navy, intending to serve in the Construction Battalion, but ultimately trained as a Machinist Mate. Following his four-year naval service, Scott spent 22 years in telecommunications before transitioning back to his original interest in construction. He and his wife of 20+ years have two sons, who are 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, born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, has been involved in construction for over 20 years. Known for his early affinity for tools, he spent summers learning the trade from his father and grandfather, gaining skills in painting, acoustical ceilings, and metal stud framing. Now a Project Assistant, Derick brings his hands-on experience to Heartland Acoustics & Interiors. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, camping with loved ones, and spending time with his two dogs, Nia and Charlie.
Ricky Garcia
Raised in San Antonio, Texas, Ricky Garcia 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 worked in the commercial industry for over 25 years. Ricky joined Heartland in 2018 and looks forward to contributing to this dynamic field.
Val Leach
Valencia Leach 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. Val 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. Val 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
Born in Pasadena, California, Rusty Benoit began his career in acoustical ceilings in 1982. He enjoys the challenge of installing systems beyond the standard and has gained extensive knowledge of the commercial construction industry through work with both specialty and general contractors. In 1993, he and his family moved to Colorado, where they love spending time fishing, camping, and working on cars and bikes together.
Jarrod LaFon
Being the son of an Air Force Captain, I was born overseas in Madrid, Spain. We traveled around the United States and England before my father retired in North Carolina. I studied Business Management at NC State University and began my career in Specialty Construction in 2002. I spent a majority of my career in Multi-Craft Construction serving industrial and commercial clients across the United States and Canada. Most recently working in Mechanical Construction.
My wife and I recently moved to Colorado, as we wanted a new adventure full of hiking trails and outdoor activities. I enjoy spending my free time with my amazing wife traveling and exploring all that Colorado has to offer. I’m so excited to be a part of the Heartland Acoustics and Interiors Team and look forward to a long career with amazing people!
Micheal Swift
Originally from Long Beach, CA, Micheal Swift 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 San Antonio, where she worked for the City of Johnson City. Micheal then 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 was born and raised in North Dakota and moved to Colorado at age 16, where she now feels like a native. With nearly 20 years in the accounting field and over a decade focused on construction accounting, Marnie brings a wealth of industry expertise to Heartland Acoustics. She and her husband, Andrew, are proud parents of two college-bound children, making them recent empty nesters. A creative cook, Marnie is always testing new recipes with her family. She also enjoys traveling, golfing, reading, and spending time with their two dogs, Charley and Willow.
Jason Forsyth
Jason Forsyth grew up in Minnesota, enjoying summers and winters on the lakes, snowmobiling, ice fishing, jet skiing, and wakeboarding. At 19, he moved to Colorado, where he graduated from the University of Colorado at Boulder with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Much of his career has been in public accounting as a financial auditor, specializing in the energy sector before joining Heartland. Jason loves reading historical books and has a passion for anything with two wheels, especially mountain biking. He enjoys the sounds of nature while exploring new trails and is a fan of all types of cuisine, particularly Thai, Indian, and Mediterranean.
Bea Judge
Originally from Texas, Bea Judge was born in Corpus Christi and grew up in Houston. 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. She has over 35 years in the airline industry and currently works part-time in Accounting for Heartland, utilizing 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!
Ryan Pratt
Ryan Pratt was born and raised in the Puget Sound area. After earning a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from Central Washington University in 2014, he began his career in construction, starting in phone sales for a commercial door company and advancing to project management. Ryan eventually took on roles in project management and estimation for commercial glass and ceilings, joining Heartland Acoustics as a senior estimator. He and his wife, Brittany, married in 2017, and they have two children. Ryan is eager to contribute to Heartland’s growth in Seattle and beyond.
Jeff Howard
Jeff Howard 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 was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and recently relocated to San Diego, California, 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 completing his studies. In his free time, he enjoys exploring the outdoors and mountain biking.
Sean McCarthy
Sean McCarthy, a Colorado native, 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. During his college years, Sean played hockey, explored the Moab desert, and rekindled his love for skiing. He began his construction career as a project engineer and estimator for a small general contractor and later joined a drywall and acoustical ceilings company. Sean enjoys skiing in winter and golfing in summer.
Ryan Cossoff
A Denver native, Ryan Cossoff grew up playing competitive soccer, reaching the Colorado team level until 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. He is also passionate about audio engineering and music production, teaching sound design on YouTube and occasionally giving one-on-one lessons.
Courtney Rush
Courtney Rush began her construction career in Virginia, working as a concrete laborer specializing in setting residential foundations, crawl spaces, and basement walls. With two years of drafting experience already completed, she pursued her passion for design by earning a bachelor’s degree with a focus on architectural design.
After graduating, Courtney spent several years drafting home plans for a local developer, where she often handled project estimating responsibilities. This experience sparked her interest in construction estimating, and she decided to pursue it as a dedicated career. Over the past 16 years, she has built extensive expertise in estimating residential, multifamily, commercial, and industrial projects, known for her meticulous attention to detail and comprehensive approach.
Outside of work, Courtney enjoys exploring creek beds and wooded areas in search of crystals and local minerals. She is also an avid cyclist who loves discovering the many biking trails in the Raleigh area.
Brandon Moore
Brandon Moore grew up just outside of Atlanta and moved to Las Vegas with his wife after graduating college, while his parents relocated to Steamboat Springs, Colorado. After working in Las Vegas for several years, he and his wife moved to Denver to be closer to family, where Brandon found his footing in commercial construction as a project manager and superintendent. The family loved spending time at their Steamboat Springs ranch, enjoying snow sports, horseback riding, and four-wheeling. Later, they relocated to Austin, Texas, where they enjoy the laid-back pace of a small town just south of the city.
Brody Philips
Born and raised in Tuscarawas, Ohio, Brody Philips grew up tackling various residential projects, from carpentry and roofing to electrical work and finish trades. In 2016, he and his wife moved to Colorado, buying their first home in Parker, where Brody began his career in commercial construction. Outside of work, Brody is an avid guitarist and live music fan who also enjoys working on vehicles and spending time outdoors, whether fishing, hiking with his dogs, or riding motorcycles.
Fernando Nanita
Fernando Nanita 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 in the construction industry, Fernando has developed a strong passion for building and design. In his free time, Fernando enjoys golfing and playing baseball. He draws inspiration from his family, who remain his greatest motivators. Fernando believes life is a journey of growth and connection, and he’s grateful for the mentors, family, and friends who have helped shape his path in construction.
Brooklyn Wheeler
Brooklyn Wheeler, originally from Lake Stevens, Washington, has spent her entire life in the Pacific Northwest and currently lives in Woodinville with her boyfriend, Austin, and their two cats, Angus and Birdie. She met Austin at Central Washington University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Physics and Environmental Science. Since joining 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, weekend trips to Cle Elum, Mariners games, and spending time with family.
Garrett Ness
Garrett Ness grew up in Gig Harbor, Washington, and currently resides in Tacoma with his dachshund, Shorty. Raised on the Puget Sound, he spent his summers fishing, crabbing, and boating. Garrett graduated from Central Washington University in 2020 with a bachelor’s in Sociology and a minor in Philosophy, despite the challenges of a year full of obstacles. Passionate about fly fishing and golf, he also enjoys coaching high school and college lacrosse. Garrett is excited to bring his skills to the Heartland team.
Dena Baldwin
A proud Colorado native, Dena Baldwin 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 a range of small to mid-sized businesses across industries like healthcare, legal, hospitality, and construction. In 2019, she and her family relocated out of state to live on a farm and devote more time to serving others. Dena is the proud mother of four and together they enjoy hiking, biking, spending time with animals, and taking rides, either on horseback or on her husband’s Harley Davidson motorcycle, both of which she finds equally glorious.
Debi Koteles-Torres
Debi Koteles-Torres 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
A Washington native, Brandon Hansen is devoted to his daughter, who inspires him in everything he does. Together, they love embarking on outdoor adventures with friends and family. Brandon joined the Local 41 Carpenters Union in 2014 and became a Superintendent in 2019. He enjoys working closely with his field crew, finding solutions, and motivating himself and his team to reach new heights. Brandon is excited to learn and grow with the Heartland team.
Wayne Wheless
Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Wayne Wheless moved to Denver in 2000 seeking a change in lifestyle. With over 20 years of experience in Warehouse Operations Management across various industries, he has also owned a small business, managing a shipping and mailing store in Arizona. Single and active, Wayne plays recreational ice hockey on Fridays, drums in a ’70s and ’80s rock cover band on Saturdays and continues improving his hockey skills on Sundays. When he’s not busy with these activities, he enjoys biking, reading, road trips, hiking, and landscape photography.
Jose Gonzalez
Jose Gonzalez, a native of San Diego, has spent over 38 years in the construction industry specializing in acoustical ceilings. He began as an apprentice and went on to own and operate his own business for 14 years, working across the United States with a focus on California and the Pacific Northwest. Jose is dedicated to doing his best in every task, setting an example of hard work for his three sons, daughter, and grandson. He cherishes time with his family and values instilling strong work ethics in his children.
Daniel Magallon
Daniel Magallon was born and raised in Eastern Washington, where he developed an early passion for residential construction, learning framing and interior finishing from family members. After high school, he pursued 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. In his free time, Daniel enjoys racing cars competitively, snowboarding, skiing, and spending time with his wife and two daughters.
