Synergy is spotlighting our Synergy Partners to help you get to know them a little bit better. We asked each partner some questions so we could learn more about them and their business.

Check out below to read all about Michael Harden with DST:

What originally got you interested in your current field of work?

I was born and raised in a commercial/industrial mechanical construction family. My dad started his business in 1952. I started off being his “helper” when I was just a kid and grew up in the business. After graduation from high school, I obtained my HVAC/R certification from Holmes Jr College and spent several years in the family business before going back to college and getting involved in electrical/ electronic engineered sales where I’ve been for the past 4 decades.

When someone finds out what you do, what question do they always ask you?

It’s usually a couple of questions….. “Can you REALLY determine the condition of equipment by listening through Ultrasound?” and “HOW does that work?”

What is the career highlight you’re most proud of?

It’s seeing The Discovery Platform come alive from a prototype to a production level tool. Growing up, I remember my Dad always saying that someday… someone would come up with a “Better Way” to determine the health and condition of a piece of equipment other than listening to it with a screwdriver up against their ear. He passed away before I was able to show him what we’re doing but I know he would be proud.

What do you love most about what you do?

It’s when I see someone have their “AHA” moment as they realize our Discovery Platform is not too good to be true and actually delivers more comprehensive data in a shorter timeframe than anything else in the marketplace. I get to help HVAC Service business owners and tradesmen / women deliver a superior product to customers that love the output of our diagnostic platform. The future predictability we can deliver to the industry through our partner network is very rewarding and we’re just getting started.

Who inspires you?

The tradesmen/women out in the field doing what they do best to keep the rest of us comfortable. We take so many things for granted but are quick to notice when the A/C or Heat isn’t working. It takes a special type of person to go into a life of “service” and deliver service excellence on a daily basis. I’m very inspired watching this happen and being a part of the transition to more technology-based 21st century service paradigms.

What is your favorite thing about the area you live in?

Location, Location, Location… Not too far from the Gulf of Mexico for diving, spear fishing and sailing. Not too far from the mountains and plenty of places to KAYAK, RV and get away from the noise.

What is your most prized possession and why?

Family….. With 5 grown kids and now adding grandkids to the family… my wife and I know family and faith are prized possessions that give back in multitudes almost unbelievable.

What is your favorite place of all the places you’ve traveled?

St John – in the Virgin Islands!