
Our volunteer partners go the extra mile to create dynamic, educational experiences that bring the trades to life and inspire excitement for lifelong interests and rewarding careers.


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.

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.

Marc Audette is a Connecticut licensed Electrical Contractor who has been in the electrical profession for over 35 years. He studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of New Haven. He began his career working in Groton, CT performing commercial, industrial, marine and residential work. Marc has worked both as Project Manager and Construction Manager, gaining experience in all phases of his profession. Through his work in the field, he saw areas of the trade that could be improved upon and designed a practice of operating as a partnership. His approach is about collaboration - with lighting suppliers, manufacturers, tradespeople, architects, designers and most importantly, the homeowners. This idea sparked the desire to venture out on his own. He attained his Masters Electrical license and founded Audette Electrical Services in 1999. He has owned and operated AES for over 20 years, consistently researching, training and specializing in premier brands such as Lutron Electronics and Kohler Standby Generator System. AES services include home renovation, new construction, lighting control and integration, generator installation to name a few.

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.










