Meet the Master Technicians
& Mighty Nice People!
Jerry
General Manager
JerrY
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
The Pizza Rustica from the City Grill in Speicher, Germany. It is a pizza made with doner meat (a type of kebab, made of meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie), mushrooms, and garlic sauce. It’s unbelievably delicious!
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
My hobby is researching my family tree. I have traced my roots as far back as 1500 AD in England, 1600 AD in Ireland, and 1500 AD in the Native American tribes.
My personal philosophy is…
Help others to succeed and you will be successful.
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
I would have liked to met Ronald Reagan, and just had a conversation with him. He seemed to be a small-town boy who made it big, but remained grounded in his beliefs and motivations in life.
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
The United Kingdom and Ireland, to attempt to discover more about my family lineage.
Bob
Warehouse Manager
Misty
Bookkeeper
Misty
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
I cannot say that I remember a specific favorite meal but I do know that pizza is my favorite food. I have pizza at least a couple of times each week and Pepperoni is my favorite. Some of my favorites are Imo’s, G&D Pizza, and Pizza Hut but I am not too picky when it comes to pizza. I also really love chicken alfredo pasta and the breadsticks from Olive Garden.
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
I’m good at word search puzzles & love listening to music & watching tv. I love going to concerts and go to several every year with a couple of my friends. I enjoy several different genres of music but, country music is my favorite. I love spending time with my family and friends as often as possible. I also enjoy going floating/camping with my friends and we go once or twice every year. Of course, you cannot go floating without adult beverages 😊. I love margaritas on the rocks but frozen is my favorite.
My personal philosophy is…
I know it’s common but the only thing I can think of is “Life is short so live every day like it’s your last.”
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
I would love to meet my maternal grandfather. Unfortunately, he passed away when my mom was in the third grade so I never got to meet him.
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
I love to travel as often as I can but have never actually been outside of the country. I would love to visit somewhere like Paris or Australia. I have also never been to California or Hawaii and would love to visit either place.
Jaime
Call Center Manager
Jaime
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
I love Mexican food and Pizza!
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
I can laugh just like Pee-Wee Herman…
My favorite quote is…
By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail. – Ben Franklin
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
My grandpa… I never got to meet him, but I hear he was an awesome guy!
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
Ireland – I would love to see the scenery and go to a pub.
Dana
Customer Service Representative
Dana
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
Anywhere Italian! The best is “family owned” not a part of a chain. One of my favorites is a family-owned Italian Restaurant called Salvatore’s in Independence, MO. Fantastic food, but when you go in, they make you feel like your family about to sit at grandma’s table.
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
I tapped dance at the Fox Theatre in St. Louis and on the SS Admiral is St. Louis.
My personal philosophy is…
THE GOLDEN RULE!!! Treat others, the way you would want to be treated!
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
The founder of Dollar General! One smart person! Put those stores in every small town and anywhere they will fit! I saw one in a corn field! Genius!
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
In the kitchen with Miss Brown from the TV show “Delicious Miss Brown.” I would love to spend a weekend with her and learn to cook all of her southern recipes!
Jeri
Customer Service Representative
Jeri
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
One of my favorite local places to eat in Columbia is Murry’s. Some of my favorite things are the green pepper rings, the blue chips cheese bread, and Murry’s Special salad. The ambience of the restaurant and the live jazz is so relaxing!
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
There is certainly a lot of creativity in crafting and design in my family. My sisters and I have done many crafting projects like making blankets, repurposing cabinet doors into trays & wall décor, and designing flower arrangements & gifts.
My favorite quote is…
“When things are getting you down and days are difficult… Pause.
Take a deep breath and think upon the troubles you don’t have… Pause.
Never forget: Things could always be worse, and it will get better.”
Take a deep breath again and remember the little graces you do.
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
My uncle, Armin Koeller, Jr. who died in a car accident when he was just 19 years old back in 1942. He was such a handsome young man. My mom was 9 years old at the time and she has always talked of him with such admiration. I would really love to meet him. Maybe someday…
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
I would love to travel to Europe: Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Finland, Spain, or any & all European countries.
Troy
Dispatcher
Troy
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
It was not a restaurant, but a little stand on the beach in the Bahamas. I had no idea what a Conch Fritter was, but when I tried it, I was hooked. I ate a lot of them during that trip.
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
I like to build Lego models.
My favorite quote is…
My favorite quote is from a Quentin Tarantino movie, so probably not appropriate for this forum.
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
Neil Peart (drummer for the band Rush). I think he was the greatest drummer ever, and was an extremely intelligent individual as well. I can only imagine where that conversation might lead.
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
I would love to go back to St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. That was a fun trip.
Chris
Service Consultant
Chris
Chris is a lifelong resident of Columbia and lives here with his wife. He enjoys anything outdoors including fishing, camping and being his son’s biggest fan while he professionally races ATVs. He enjoys listening to country music and eating BBQ. Chris’s favorite thing about working at MasterTech is being able to work with his hands, being outdoors and helping our customers!
Nathan
Excavation Foreman
Nathan
Nathan has worked at MasterTech for 16 years! When he is not saving people from the trenches (literally), Nathan enjoys anything and everything outdoors and spending time with his family. Nathan was the winner of the MasterTech Chili Cook-Off, and his recipe was chosen as the winner of the 7th Annual Rootin’ Tootin’ Chili Cook-Off which supports the Boys and Girls Club of Columbia! Nathan is the proud father of three daughters – Lizzie, Josie and Carly.
Matt
Service Technician
Matt
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
At my house because it’s the best place to eat! Between my wife’s cooking, and when I barbecue, nothing compares. I love to smoke food on my pellet smoker.
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
Flying a Powered Paraglider. I love to fly and I used to train people to fly paramotors.
My personal philosophy is…
Live life to the fullest and never look back on the past.
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
If I had the chance to meet anyone I would choose to meet up with my cousin one more time. He was a brother to me and I miss him dearly.
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
If I had the chance to go anywhere in the world I would choose to go to a rainforest. I love animals and I love being outdoors.
Macenzie
Service Technician
Nathan
Nathan has worked at MasterTech for more than 10 years! When he is not saving people from the trenches (literally), Nathan enjoys anything and everything outdoors and spending time with his family. Nathan was the winner of the MasterTech Chili Cook-Off, and his recipe was chosen as the winner of the 7th Annual Rootin’ Tootin’ Chili Cook-Off which supports the Boys and Girls Club of Columbia! Nathan is married to Heather and they have three daughters – Lizzie, Josie and Carly.
Chad
Plumbing Technician
Chad
Chad has been with MasterTech for 10 years and our customers have enjoyed working with him as much as his fellow employees! He and his wife Lori live in Pilot Grove with their two daughters, Chloe and Leah. In the summer time, he enjoys gardening, from which he cans THE most amazing salsa – it’s no surprise that Mexican food is his favorite. He can also be found coaching his daughters’ sports teams in his spare time. He enjoys everyone he works with here at MasterTech, and being able to take care of his customers’ plumbing problems is one of the most satisfying aspects of his job.
Max
Plumbing Technician
Max
Max is a bit of a car guy. In fact, he currently owns 7 cars and a motorcycle. To expound a bit on his interest, he actually enjoys working on cars in his spare time so he buys them, fixes them up and then sells them when the right opportunity comes along. His mechanical abilities, work ethic, intelligence, and good nature have made him a valuable member of our team.
He grew up in Callaway County and still lives there. When he isn’t working on cars or at MasterTech, he might be found watching South Park on TV or playing Fallout on Xbox.
Working hard builds up an appetite, and Max is a fan of Mexican food…so much so that about once a week he visits a dining establishment to fill up on it!
When discussing what he likes about working at MasterTech, he said he appreciates the friendly people and work culture. He also enjoys the variety of duties and responsibilities entrusted to him. We agree, and Max has proven to be just the kind of person that fits in well with our team. He’s humble, hungry (not just for food!) and smart.
Gary
Plumbing Technician
Nathan
Nathan has worked at MasterTech for more than 10 years! When he is not saving people from the trenches (literally), Nathan enjoys anything and everything outdoors and spending time with his family. Nathan was the winner of the MasterTech Chili Cook-Off, and his recipe was chosen as the winner of the 7th Annual Rootin’ Tootin’ Chili Cook-Off which supports the Boys and Girls Club of Columbia! Nathan is married to Heather and they have three daughters – Lizzie, Josie and Carly.
Matt S
Plumbing Technician
Matt S
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
Captain Jack’s in Panama City, FL offered an all you can eat seafood buffet with the best crab legs I’ve ever had. Crab legs are one of my favorite meals, but Captain Jack’s has the best along with some other great seafood options like shrimp and scallops.
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
I enjoy building fully sustainable fresh water planted aquariums with live plants and fish. I like to emphasize local fisheries in my builds, modeling them to look like clear water versions of Missouri lakes and river systems.
My personal philosophy is…
Provide others with service quality that I would expect others to provide me.
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
As a big Kansas City Chiefs fan, I’d like to meet the Chiefs Quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, as I believe he is the greatest football player ever.
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
I’ve always wanted to visit the southernmost part of Florida to see the Keys and the everglades. I enjoy interacting with nature whether it be by swimming, hunting, or fishing, and this spot seems to offer opportunities in all three categories.
Ryan
Drain Specialist
Nathan
Nathan has worked at MasterTech for more than 10 years! When he is not saving people from the trenches (literally), Nathan enjoys anything and everything outdoors and spending time with his family. Nathan was the winner of the MasterTech Chili Cook-Off, and his recipe was chosen as the winner of the 7th Annual Rootin’ Tootin’ Chili Cook-Off which supports the Boys and Girls Club of Columbia! Nathan is married to Heather and they have three daughters – Lizzie, Josie and Carly.
Andy
Plumbing Technician
Andy
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
The Reuben Sandwich at the Barred Owl in Columbia. I’ve always loved Reubens, but theirs is by far the best I’ve ever had! Fresh, cooked well, and all the right ingredients!
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
Deck building games like Magic The Gathering, Hearthstone, etc., are my favorite type of games. I enjoy teaching my kids to play & playing together with them.
What is your favorite quote?
Slow and steady wins the race.
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
One of the Founding Fathers like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson or Samuel Adams.
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
I would like to spend the whole summer in Texas with my mother.
CJ
HVAC Comfort Advisor
CJ
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
Hands down, the best meal I’ve ever had was in Indianapolis at the Marriott Hotel. We stayed there for the Bryant Dealer of the Year Award and Indy 500. We were served the best prime rib, filet mignon, snow crab and lobster you could ask for. Cooked to absolute perfection, almost didn’t want to finish the meal because then there would be none left! It has unfortunately become the bar for everywhere else, and nowhere has reached it yet!
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
Currently I am really into my laser engraver/cutter. I enjoy the process of designing the product on my laptop and then watching my imagination transfer into reality via LASER BEAM. It is very satisfying.
What is your favorite quote?
The thorn in my side is from the tree I’ve planted. – Metallica, Bleeding Me
Whether you think can, or think you can’t, you’re right. – Henry Ford
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
I would like to meet Jim Carrey. I wanted to be just like him when I was younger. I always impersonated him for my friends and family, he really influenced my style of comedy, both verbally and physically. Most of my favorite movies are his, and now, even though I don’t always agree with his personal point of view, I still find them entertaining. I also really enjoy his paintings.
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
I’ve always been fascinated with the idea of going to Australia, mostly just to come back and say, “I survived Australia!” But the giant spiders, deadly snakes, and aggressive kangaroos (among a laundry list of other deadly creatures) keep me here at home where it’s safe.
Tyler
HVAC Technician
Tyler
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
Jose Jalapenos in Columbia – The Chorizo Pollo is so good!
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
I sing & play country music.
What is your favorite quote or life philosophy?
Life is too short to let people treat you poorly.
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
Patrick Mahomes – Quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
Italy
Dillan
HVAC Technician
Dillan
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
I like all foods equally, except beef & pork.
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
I can ride a unicycle.
What is your favorite quote?
It be like that sometimes.
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
Nikola Tesla – His inventions & experiments with electricity were ahead of his time.
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
Japan – I’d like to try the hot springs there.
Conner
HVAC Technician
Conner Hutchins
Adam
Plumbing Technician
Adam Buck
Kyle
HVAC Technician
Kyle Mohler
See Yourself Here?
We’re Hiring
Joe
Marketing Manager
Joe
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
Chicken Marsala from Amerigo’s in Memphis, TN. Sauteed chicken breast, pasta, mushrooms in an amazing sauce that I’ve been dreaming about for over 20 years.
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
I can juggle. I started trying to figure it out in 6th grade. Then one day in 8th grade, something connected, and it finally happened. Now, it’s like riding a bicycle. Once you learn, you can always do it. I might need some practice to refresh the skill, but it’s still there & always fun.
What is your favorite quote?
“The days may be long, but the seasons are short.”
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
As a man of faith, the obvious answer is Jesus. I have a LOT of questions, but I can wait until He decides it’s time to call me Home to Heaven.
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
One of my bucket list items is to charter a boat and go fishing on one of the Great Lakes.
Laura
Business Manager
Laura
Favorite Restaurant Meal You’ve Ever Had…
Any place I can get a good steak cooked as rare as they will make it!!!
What’s a Unique hobby, talent, skill you have that most people don’t know about?
I love to watch fictional murder mysteries, especially British ones.
My personal philosophy is…
When I make a mistake or say or do something that I shouldn’t have, I need to clean up my mess.
Who is the one person, living or deceased, you would like to meet? Why?
Candace Owens
If you could visit anywhere in the whole world, where would it be?
The United Kingdom
Russ
Owner
Russ
In 1990, Russ Duker started a plumbing company out of a single van. Today, MasterTech Plumbing, Heating and Cooling is one of the best service companies in Mid-Missouri. Russ is still a Master Plumber, but he now focuses on taking MasterTech to new heights. As a successful business owner of 30 years, Russ is passionate about improving customer satisfaction. He believes in using digital tools to better serve you – our customers. Russ is a proud resident of Columbia, MO, and he continues to lead MasterTech’s team of Master Technicians and Mighty Nice People.
Annette
Co-owner
Annette
Annette was born in Oxford, Ohio and has been living in Columbia for over 25 years. Annette is married to Russ and they have 3 grown children, Rebecca, Rachel and Nathaniel and three grandsons, Matthew, Tristan and Connor. Annette enjoys quilting and doing activities with her family. She enjoys watching The Three Musketeers and eating pizza. Annette enjoys working for MasterTech because, well…she has the best boss!
