Nevan Carling is a preservation timber and buildings archaeologist from Hartford, CT. He completed his undergraduate degree in Archaeology and Heritage Management at the University of York in the United Kingdom and is currently completing his MSc in Timber Building Conservation at the Weald and Downland Museum in Chichester, England. Nevan specializes in historic timber framing techniques and the repair of historic buildings, with a special interest in 17th and 18th century structures.

Jeremy Makins is a seasoned presenter returning to this year's TradesUp event, ready to bring back the excitement surrounding all things tile! With a commitment to quality and a passion for home improvement, Jeremy is the driving force behind J SIX Home Services.

As the owner of J SIX Home Services, Jeremy is proud to lead a locally owned and fully licensed Home Improvement Contractor based in the state of Connecticut. With a focus on small to medium-sized projects, their expertise spans a wide range of home improvements. Their dedication to excellence is evident in their EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm status and comprehensive insurance coverage.

Jeremy's journey to entrepreneurship began after a successful career in sales, customer service, marketing, and management. A Midwest native turned New Haven resident for over a decade, he shares a 100-year-old home in the Westville neighborhood with his wife, a talented designer and realtor, and their five energetic boys.

Don't miss the chance to join Jeremy at TradesUp, where you can dive into the world of tile installation and cutting while experiencing his enthusiasm and knowledge for home improvement.

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Meet Bill Brague, a seasoned professional in the realm of organic land care, proudly holding a CT-NOFA certification. Bill's remarkable journey spans two decades, driven by an unwavering passion for the great outdoors. During the growing season, he emerges as a skilled arboreal detective, adept at diagnosing and remedying diseases plaguing tress and shrubs, ensuring their sustained vitality. As winter blankets the landscape, Bill seamlessly transitions to the world of pruning and removals, contributing to the tree care team's expertise. Currently, Bill is an esteemed member of Arbor Services of CT, Inc., where his commitment to preserving the beauty of nature shines brightly. His extensive experience as a plant health care technician has bestowed upon him a treasure trove of insights, which he will share during his TradesUp Experience titled, “A Day in the Life of a Plant Health Care Technician.” During this enlightening experience, Bill unravels the art and science behind the precise applications that safeguard the health and vibrancy of our beloved trees and shrubs. Join Bill in his mission to unveil the secrets of preserving the green wonders of our environment.

Nathan is a craftsman with 20 years of trades experience from basic residential construction to high-end cabinetmaking. Over the past 12 years he has been specializing in the restoration and preservation of old homes and historic buildings.

Meet Mikayla Traver, a passionate professional in the Equine trade, where she serves as a skilled Farrier's Associate. With a wealth of experience in the art of hoof care, Mikayla is well-versed in trimming hooves and expertly shoeing horses, tailoring her techniques to meet the unique needs of each horse she works with. As a dedicated presenter at TradesUp, Mikayla offers a firsthand glimpse into the world of equine horseshoeing.

In her engaging presentations, Mikayla creates an immersive experience that is hands-on, inclusive, and highly informative. She takes her audience on a journey, showcasing the intricate process of equine horseshoeing, revealing the meticulous care and expertise required in this essential aspect of horse health. Whether you're a novice or an enthusiast, Mikayla's sessions promise to be enlightening, providing valuable insights into the art and science of farriery. Join Mikayla and discover the artistry and precision behind equine hoof care in an interactive and enriching learning environment.

Elizabeth DiSalvo is an Architect who specializes in designing Sustainable Homes. For over 20 years she and her firm, Trillium Architects, have been dedicated solely to creating healthy, earth-friendly, low-carbon homes. Their work includes custom homes, affordable multi-family and modular, as well as some lite commercial projects throughout Litchfield, Fairfield, Westchester counties and beyond.