As Vice President of Contractor Services, Matthew is responsible for all lending and finance operations within EGIA. As the founder and creator of OPTIMUS, Matthew used his 30+ years of experience in the industry, understanding of the contractor process and non-stop creativity to streamline and simplify payment solutions for virtually every contractor. Working directly with lending and affiliate partners, Matthew and his team strive to develop cutting edge payment and promotional offerings for EGIA’s vast contractor base. In addition, Matthew leads EGIA’s business development strategy, as well as the design and implementation of finance training content.

After attending Virginia Commonwealth University, majoring in Psychology, Matthew started his journey in finance and customer experience in 1995. He began at American General Finance, followed by stops at Equity Lending, Greensky and Renovate America.

Benjamin Middleton has been involved in the HVAC industry for 25+ years and has enjoyed seeing the industry from many different perspectives. Ben has served as a comfort advisor, installer, service technician and business owner on the contracting side. He has owned his own HVAC business consulting organization and worked on the manufacturer and distribution side as a territory sales manager, business consultant, and national sales training manager.

Ben holds certificates in advanced conflict resolution and SHERPA executive coaching.

Through these experiences Ben has always strived to create the win for every party involved in the transaction. Ben brings this perspective to every aspect of training that is developed and brought to you through the Daikin, Goodman, and Amana brand strategic training vendors.

Ben lives with his wife and two children in Katy, TX where he serves as the National Sales Training Manager for Daikin, Goodman & Amana brands.