Mike received a Food Technology degree from The Ohio State University. His first taste of the food and drink industry came in 1988 working in the San Francisco, California office of Melchers Flavors of America, the first pioneering firm in the gourmet flavored coffee and tea market. As the Vice President of Sales and Marketing responsible for all North American flavor sales, he called upon specialty coffee roasters and tea blending companies helping them to develop unique flavor profiles for their products. Sales increased dramatically during his tenure.

In 1991, Mike launched a successful food product development program, offered for academic credit at Oregon State University’s College of Food Science. He also helped create a member survey for the Specialty Coffee Association of America which defined trends in manufacturing, marketing and consumer demographics. Since that time, he has been a member of various trade associations, has led seminars and workshops for industry groups, and is profiled and quoted as a source in many trade publications.

Mike established Flavor Waves, Inc. in October 1996. Boasting an abundance of enthusiasm and equipped with invaluable contacts made over the years, he set off with one main goal in mind. To create the best food and beverage flavoring company on the planet. Mike served on the board of directors of the famous Pacific Coast Coffee Association (established 1932) and was President in 2004. He also holds a coffee Q Grading Certificate, and keeps it current.

Today, Flavor Waves has built a solid reputation based on our quality products and excellent customer service. Our customers need trust, peak taste, and timely, friendly service - the Flavor Waves team consistently delivers.

Mike’s flavor wheels are always spinning to accentuate flavors. And, when flavors are not driving him, his passion for Maui does - where he grows and processes his own Arabica, coffee at home and windsurfs when possible.