Michael began his woodworking career as a student at the Primrose Center for Fine Woodworking in Missoula, Montana, in 1980. The school emphasized traditional woodworking techniques including joinery and hand tool technique. Students were trained in the arts of cutting dovetail joints by hand, sharpening and truing hand planes, steam bending chair parts , and also in the fine points of design, proportion, and drafting.

Since beginning with a background in fine woodworking, Michael has always adhered to the high level of accuracy required in the hand-building of fine furniture, while incorporating newer trends in cabinetmaking such as European hardware, ball bearing roller glides for drawers, and laminated surface treatments. Over the years Michael's career has included a wide variety of projects and commissions including furniture, cabinetry, countertops, installation work, dental and doctor's office cabinetry, and architectural interiors.

Wood became important to Michael early in life.