About ETI

Ben is an ETI graduate and teaching assistant who loves helping students discover their potential and seeing the spark in their eyes when they learn. Outside the classroom, he enjoys visiting museums, traveling, and checking experiences off his bucket list.

Mr. Mohsen has been in the trade for more than 30 years and with ETI for more than 25. What he likes most about teaching is meeting new students and watching them learn the skills they need to succeed.

Kyle joined ETI in 2017 after 12 years in the industry. He initially chose a welding career because he knew it would provide him with great opportunities. He now uses his experience and knowledge to help ETI students train for their own rewarding lifelong career.

Jeffrey brings over 45 years of experience in STICK, MIG, and TIG welding, along with blueprint reading. Passionate about giving back, he aims to share his knowledge and leave a legacy for future welders. In his free time, Jeffrey enjoys dining out, doing charity work, and DJing music.

Malik Nunnally brings over 10 years of TIG welding experience to the classroom. His background includes welding forklift frames, train frames, and high-pressure tubing systems tested at 700 PSI. He has extensive experience working with a variety of metals, including aluminum, copper, stainless steel, and mild steel. As a TIG Welding Instructor, he is committed to sharing real-world industry knowledge and hands-on skills to help students succeed in the field.

The son of a pipefitter, it was only natural that Dan would follow in his father’s footsteps. In more than four decades in the industry, he has worked on several large projects, including the Deep Tunnel Project, Midway Airport and the Soldier Field remodel. He joined ETI in 2015, where he enjoys sharing his experience with students.

Brandon, an ETI alumnus, built his career with one of the largest HVAC companies in Phoenix, Arizona. With extensive experience in heat pumps and boilers, he’s returning to his alma mater to give back to the industry that shaped him. In his free time, Brandon enjoys skating.

Mark Podzimek is a proud graduate of ETI School of Skilled Trades with extensive experience in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and carpentry. For many years, he has taught Level 1 at ETI, guiding students through math, sheet metal fabrication, conduit bending, and electrical distribution to build a strong foundation in the trades.

Marcus has 25 years of experience in the HVAC industry, following in his father’s footsteps. With extensive work in the CEDA Weatherization Program and Department of Housing, he values earning an honest dollar. Marcus enjoys sharing his knowledge at any level and is an avid chess player aiming to compete competitively.

Eric Straton, a former Air Force avionics technician with four years of active duty, has 13 years in the industrial and commercial HVAC industry and experience as a building engineer. Passionate about teaching motivated learners, Eric enjoys researching aliens and Skinwalkers in his free time.

Joe Trimble brings over 30 years of hands-on HVAC experience to the classroom, specializing in residential and commercial furnace systems. Throughout his career, he has worked extensively with the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of a wide range of heating systems. His real-world expertise allows him to provide practical, industry-relevant instruction that prepares students for the demands of the HVAC field. As an HVAC Furnace Instructor, he is dedicated to helping students develop strong technical skills, confidence, and a solid foundation for long-term success in the trades. *Recipient of Teacher of the Year Award for 2025.*

A 30-year veteran of the industry, Alan ran two fabrication shops, supervising up to 25 employees before joining ETI. His favorite thing about teaching is building relationships with students. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his dog.

Ray has spent over 40 years in the industry. He has been with ETI since the welding program began, serving as both instructor and welding director. The thing he likes best about teaching is the sense of satisfaction that comes from seeing the skills students develop. He enjoys wrestling and MMA.

Brian Woods has worked in the HVAC industry for over 10 years since graduating from ETI. He owns his own business and previously worked for Nicor Home Solutions. Brian enjoys teaching and seeing the “light bulb” go off for students. In his free time, he rides his Corvette and attends car shows with his wife.