For starters my name is Michael Terpner. I am originally from Sydney Australia but I have lived in the states for most of my life. I grew up in both Key West Florida and Boone North Carolina. I have family over in Denmark so I have spent a little time over there as well and speak the language. 

Appalachian's Construction Management degree has taught me a lot. It was Construction based but it is applicable in most other management positions. The courses I have taken have taught me about multiple aspects of scheduling/ time management, how to lead a crew, responsibilities of management, as well as common sense in the business world. The Architectural Tech & Design has taught me the importance of technology (with what I have accomplished with design software, Microsoft programs, research and numerous other resources) how to think creatively, and most importantly how to think critically. 

What I have learned from my educational experience I consider invaluable. I have been working in the construction field since I was about 15 years old. I have tried to dabble in all aspects of the industry as possible since then and worked in landscaping, maintenance, and now timber framing. I consider all the knowledge that my hands on experience has taught me is just as equally invaluable as my school education. It has taught me that things don't go according to plan but you still figure out how to make it work. Knowledge is only part of the equation but dedication and hard work goes a long way as well.

My passions have always led me to further myself. I have always been intrigued with building, which covers everything from how something is designed all the way to its creation. I enjoy the problem solving and how can a problem be solved in a different way than expected.