Eric grew up in Southwest Washington. After high school he began a career in commercial real estate. He left real estate in 2009 looking for a more stable career. After a short time working as a youth director, in 2011 Eric decided to join SMART Local 16. While working on his building trades apprenticeship, he began taking service classes at night. He completed his building trades apprenticeship in 2017 and completed his service apprenticeship in 2020.

Eric worked in the field for 11 years in architectural sheet metal and HVAC. He then moved into service work. His previous employers include Bob Carlson Roofing and Sheet Metal, Robert Lloyd Sheet Metal, and Streimer Sheet Metal Works, Inc. He was in the role of Lead Service Technician when he left to join the Sheet Metal Institute as Service Instructor in 2022. Eric is passionate about being an instructor because he believes education improves people’s lives.

Outside of work Eric enjoys travelling, camping, hiking, coaching his children’s sports teams, and playing music.