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Meet Our Team

Leadership Team

General Manager
Brad Tucker joined Gold Coast Schools in 2022 and is currently the General Manager. Brad brings an extensive background in Education Technology, Assessment and Certification, Read More...
Brad TuckerGeneral Manager

Brad Tucker joined Gold Coast Schools in 2022 and is currently the General Manager. Brad brings an extensive background in Education Technology, Assessment and Certification, having worked with Ascend Learning from 2008-2020 in a variety of positions during an extended period of rapid growth. Brad’s responsibilities over the course of that time included Leadership positions in Sales and Business Development, Marketing, Product Management, M&A Integration, and International. Brad was based in London, U.K. from 2018-2020 and oversaw the digital transformation of one of Ascend Learning’s U.K. based businesses before returning back to the states in March 2020. Most recently Brad served as Chief Operating Officer of NPE Fitness from 2020-2022.

Brad attended Pepperdine University on a baseball scholarship and holds a B.S. degree in Business Administration. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies organization and played several seasons of minor league baseball. He also attended and earned his MBA from Arizona State University’s Walter Kronkite School of Business.

Brad is married to his wife of 12 years, April Tucker, and they have three children: Blain, Baylee and Brynn. They also have a family dog Ryder. In his free time, Brad enjoys spending time with his family, watching his kids play sports, traveling, fitness, snowboarding, golf, fishing, hiking, personal development opportunities, reading, and many other outdoor activities.

Business Development Director
Britt has lived in Florida since 1993 and is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with over 15 years of experience in sales, Read More...
Britt WattyBusiness Development Director

Britt has lived in Florida since 1993 and is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with over 15 years of experience in sales, customer service, and client relationship management. Britt covers the state of Florida in developing Gold Coast’s real estate partnerships. She believes strong communication and transparency are the foundations for a successful business relationship.

Construction Program Director
Chris Clausing is a Certified General Contractor in the State of Florida with over 20 years’ experience in the Construction and Inspection industry. As a Read More...
Chris ClausingConstruction Program Director

Chris Clausing is a Certified General Contractor in the State of Florida with over 20 years’ experience in the Construction and Inspection industry. As a Gold Coast Instructor, Chris has helped thousands of students prepare for and pass their certification exams for state licensure. Chris works as a Consultant with The University of Miami – Master of Construction Management Program mentoring future Contractors and Construction Professionals and sits as a Consensus Committee Member for the IECC helping shape the energy codes of the future. As Program and Curriculum Innovation Director, Chris is committed to providing the best learning experience for all Gold Coast students and developing best-in-class industry training programs for lifelong professional development.

MLO Program Director
Dan joined Gold Coast Schools in 1993 and brings with him extensive experience in the mortgage industry including, but not limited to, areas of property Read More...
Dan FlietstraMLO Program Director

Dan joined Gold Coast Schools in 1993 and brings with him extensive experience in the mortgage industry including, but not limited to, areas of property management of investment properties, as well as the origination and servicing of a variety of loans including commercial, construction, government, and asset based.

Dan has a passion for teaching and paving a pathway for students to have a successful career in the mortgage industry. Through combining the required material with relevant and real-world examples, students benefit from Dan’s teaching style far beyond what is taught in the required textbooks.

Dan teaches mortgage pre-license, exam prep, continuing education, and property management courses at Gold Coast’s multiple campus locations.

Spanish Real Estate Program Director
Jose A. Velasquez joined Gold Coast Schools in 2004 and is currently the Spanish Real Estate Program Director.  He also teaches the Sales Associate Pre-license, Read More...
Jose A. VelasquezSpanish Real Estate Program Director

Jose A. Velasquez joined Gold Coast Schools in 2004 and is currently the Spanish Real Estate Program Director.  He also teaches the Sales Associate Pre-license, Post-license, CRAM, and professional development workshop courses.  Prior to working at Gold Coast, Jose lived in Peru and worked as an insurance broker.  He attended the University of Lima and achieved a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration.  Jose is passionate about helping students and making sure that Gold Coast’s Spanish real estate program is top notch.  He oversees instructors who share his passion for teaching, and goes above and beyond to help students pass their state licensing exams and start their real estate careers.  When not working, Jose enjoys reading and recently started growing vegetables and fruit trees in his home garden.

Financial Services Insurance Director
Kevin R. Milner is the Financial Services Insurance Program Director. He is licensed in multiple jurisdictions as a producer and insurance instructor. He holds several Read More...
Kevin MilnerFinancial Services Insurance Director

Kevin R. Milner is the Financial Services Insurance Program Director. He is licensed in multiple jurisdictions as a producer and insurance instructor. He holds several prestigious designations, including the CIC (Certified Insurance Counselor), CLCS (Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist), and ITP (Insurance Training Professional). Mr. Milner began his insurance career in 2002, where he was the Managing Partner of a New Jersey Property, Casualty, Life & Health Insurance Agency.

In his previous role, Mr. Milner was the Director of Education at the South Jersey Professional School of Business (School of Insurance). During his tenure, he authored multiple pre-licensing and continuing education manuscripts and was recognized as a leader in the insurance education arena.

In addition, Mr. Milner held the position of Senior Vice President of Operations for an NJ/PA retail pharmacy corporation. He was also a visiting professor and adjunct faculty member at Stockton University and the Chief Executive Officer of a New Jersey multi-location retail corporation.

Mr. Milner received his MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, NJ, and his BA from the Stockton University (formerly Richard Stockton College of NJ) in Pomona, NJ. He is currently a licensed and appointed insurance agent in the authorities of life, accident, health, property and casualty, and holds a Florida Real Estate Sales Associate license.

Mr. Milner lives in Florida with his wife Alexandra. He is an active member of the Society of Insurance Trainers & Educators, a volunteer with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and a Retired EMS Lieutenant and Training Officer with the North Wildwood (NJ) Rescue Squad.

Education:
• MBA – Fairleigh Dickinson University
• BA – Richard Stockton College
• CIC – Certified Insurance Counselor
• CLCS – Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist
• ITP – Insurance Training Professional

CAM Program Director
Patricia Rogers was appointed the Director of Community Association Management Education for Gold Coast Professional Schools (GCPS) in 2006, after two years as an instructor. Read More...
Patricia RogersCAM Program Director

Patricia Rogers was appointed the Director of Community Association Management Education for Gold Coast Professional Schools (GCPS) in 2006, after two years as an instructor. Patricia is passionate about developing and enriching our community associations. Her vision is to enhance the standards by which CAMs and CAM firms (CABs) are measured and serve our community associations, expand educational opportunities, and improve ethical standards and behavior.

Patricia served as a Commissioner in the City of Aventura from 1996 through 2003. Patricia received her CAM license in 2002. She was appointed to the Regulatory Council of Community Association Managers (RCCAM) in August 2008, and was elected the Chair of the RCCAM in 2010. She served until Fall 2013.

Patricia graduated Duke University cum laude with a B.S., where she majored in experimental clinical psychology, and minored in English, Mathematics, and Elementary Education. She trained as a Supreme Court certified mediator. She has participated in the National League of Cities Leadership Training Institute, is a graduate of the Florida League of Cities Advanced Institute for Elected Officials and of Leadership Florida. She is also a graduate of The Pacific Institute Investment in Excellence program and the EST and Forum personal development programs. She holds certifications as a Management Productivity Analyst and a Quality Circles Facilitator.

Patricia has been together with husband Paul Libert for 35 years. They have two cats, a tortoiseshell/calico, Dynamuffin, and a blue tuxedo, Blueberry (Muffin) – who sleep with Patricia & Paul nightly. She is an avid reader – enjoying both legislation and suspense fiction – and a committed Miami Heat fan. Go Heat!

Real Estate Program Director
Wayne joined Gold Coast Schools in 2006 and is a highly experienced real estate professional with years spent working in the industry.   He holds Read More...
Wayne HasseReal Estate Program Director

Wayne joined Gold Coast Schools in 2006 and is a highly experienced real estate professional with years spent working in the industry.   He holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration in addition to a real estate broker license and an instructor permit.  He spent several years teaching a wide array of real estate licensing and renewal courses at Gold Coast Schools before taking over as the Real Estate Program Director.  As director, his aim is to ensure that our dedicated instructors continue to deliver the top notch education that Gold Coast has provided since 1970.  He holds instructors to high standards because he believes in providing a superior student experience to everyone who chooses Gold Coast Schools for their education.

 

 

Real Estate Instructors

Spanish Real Estate Instructor
Abraham Valencia has been working in adult education since 1994. He started teaching Real Estate in 2004 and joined Gold Coast’s team of Spanish instructors in Read More...
Abraham ValenciaSpanish Real Estate Instructor

Abraham Valencia has been working in adult education since 1994. He started teaching Real Estate in 2004 and joined Gold Coast’s team of Spanish instructors in June of 2015.  He strives for and takes pride in the success of his students.  He is a lifelong learn who is pursuing his DBA and has an extensive training background including:

  • Walden University: Pursuing DBA
  • Jack Welch Management Institute: MBA
  • Strayer University: BS in Criminal Justice
  • Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College: AAS Management
  • Dale Carnegie Course: How to Win Friends and Influence People
  • Everything DISC Profile: Management Profiling
  • Public Speaking

When not teaching or studying, Abraham enjoys motorcycling, mountain biking, scuba diving, exercising, and playing tennis.

Real Estate Instructor
HND, Ealing College, University of London State Certified Residential Appraiser AQB Certified National USPAP Instructor Licensed Real Estate Sales Associate
Adam JonesReal Estate Instructor
  • HND, Ealing College, University of London
  • State Certified Residential Appraiser
  • AQB Certified National USPAP Instructor
  • Licensed Real Estate Sales Associate
Real Estate Instructor
Adam Narkier is a real estate instructor who joined Gold Coast in 2015 teaching the 63-hour Sales Associate Pre-license and 14-hour Continuing Education courses.  He Read More...
Adam NarkierReal Estate Instructor

Adam Narkier is a real estate instructor who joined Gold Coast in 2015 teaching the 63-hour Sales Associate Pre-license and 14-hour Continuing Education courses.  He is a licensed real estate broker, instructor, and previously a mortgage broker.  Adam has spent the better part of his adult life in the real estate industry.  He has been licensed and specializing in residential real estate since 2007 and enjoys working with both buyers and sellers.  In addition, he was in the mortgage and banking industry for nearly 10 years prior to that.

Adam holds a Bachelors Degree in Public Management & Administration from Florida Atlantic University, an Associates of Arts Degree from Palm Beach Community College, is a member of the Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches (RAPB), as well as a member of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity International.  He is one of the few true native South Floridians born and raised in Palm Beach County, and has two rescue dogs that he loves dearly.

Real Estate Instructor
Alan’s entire successful career has been in the real estate and mortgage industry. He was the National Sales Director of The Nehemiah Program, a 501(c)3 Read More...
Alan ChapmanReal Estate Instructor

Alan’s entire successful career has been in the real estate and mortgage industry. He was the National Sales Director of The Nehemiah Program, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that assisted tens of thousands of first-time homebuyers with down payment assistance for homeownership.

Alan’s exceptional role as an international sales and motivational speaker/instructor led him to be a consultant for many of HGTV’s real estate celebrities. He has created sales training systems for mortgage professionals, real estate investors, and real estate agents.

Alan embraces every day!

Real Estate Instructor
Allesandro started teaching at Gold Coast in 2016 and has been a Real estate professional since 1994.  He has sold and invested in properties on Read More...
Alessandro DanieliReal Estate Instructor

Allesandro started teaching at Gold Coast in 2016 and has been a Real estate professional since 1994.  He has sold and invested in properties on 2 continents and in 3 different countries. He previously worked in the largest Real Estate Company in Italy, TECNO CASA, and then expanded the business to other countries.

Alessandro’s passion for the business brought him around the world becoming a top agent of a successful firm in Manhattan.  He then opened an investment company in South West Florida as well as in Costa Rica. His love for the business and desire to help others brought him to give back by teaching everything he learned as an investor and coach, driving him to travel all over United States and Costa Rica pursuing his passion for teaching. Now he found his home in the hottest real estate market in America where he continues to work as a foreign investor.  He is currently a successful Real Estate agent for the largest vacation ownership company, and a licensed Instructor for Gold Coast Schools.  His love of learning and his passion for new challenges tells us that he is far from being done yet….

Real Estate Instructor
Alexander is currently a Real Estate Instructor at Gold Coast Schools and teaches: Pre-License, Post-License, Continuing Education courses. Alexander graduated from Florida Atlantic University with Read More...
Alexander TucoquielReal Estate Instructor

Alexander is currently a Real Estate Instructor at Gold Coast Schools and teaches: Pre-License, Post-License, Continuing Education courses. Alexander graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing, and from Broward College with a degree in Legal Studies. With almost 15 years as a real estate broker and owner he enjoys bringing his vast experience to the classroom.

Real Estate Instructor
Barb Stone is a Residential Broker Associate and Compliance Coordinator with Keller Williams Heritage Real Estate, LLC. Licensed since 2007 she mentors and coaches agents Read More...
Barb StoneReal Estate Instructor

Barb Stone is a Residential Broker Associate and Compliance Coordinator with Keller Williams Heritage Real Estate, LLC. Licensed since 2007 she mentors and coaches agents in residential sales and growing their business as an entrepreneur. She designed and taught a comprehensive, hands-on “survival course” for new agents to fill the existing gaps in learning the business. In 2013 Barb received the Top Mentor Award for Florida from her previous employer, EXIT Realty. She is a Certified Distressed Property Expert CDPE® and Accredited Buyer’s Representative ABR®, as well as REO Specialist designation.

Real Estate Instructor
Bill BensonReal Estate Instructor
Real Estate Instructor
Carlos A Suarez is a second generation Real Estate Agent who first came into the business as an assistant to one of Florida’s largest brokerages Read More...
Carlos A SuarezReal Estate Instructor

Carlos A Suarez is a second generation Real Estate Agent who first came into the business as an assistant to one of Florida’s largest brokerages right after completing his Bachelor’s degree in business administration from Florida International University. With a strong belief that knowledge is the key to success, Carlos has committed himself to stay ahead of the game when it comes to the industry’s trends and education; which has taken him to participate in multiple real estate expos and workshops not only in the U.S. but in places like Mexico, Argentina and Colombia. As a huge soccer fan Carlos spends most of his free time either playing, watching or coaching soccer.

Spanish Real Estate Instructor
Carmen is an excellent real estate instructor who is passionate about helping each and every student that attends her Spanish Sales Associate Pre-license and CRAM Read More...
Carmen Rodriguez PerazzoSpanish Real Estate Instructor

Carmen is an excellent real estate instructor who is passionate about helping each and every student that attends her Spanish Sales Associate Pre-license and CRAM classes.  She joined Gold Coast in 2015 and has extensive experience in the real estate industry.  When not teaching, Carmen loves to travel where she has the opportunity to explore and discover new things.

Real Estate Instructor
Cindy has been an instructor for over 35 years.  She was recently awarded the Emeritus Status by the National Association of Realtors for her over Read More...
Cindy EgeliReal Estate Instructor
Cindy has been an instructor for over 35 years.  She was recently awarded the Emeritus Status by the National Association of Realtors for her over 40 years as a licensed Real Estate Agent/Broker.
Originally from New Jersey, she was Director of her Real Estate Board’s Success Institute which was the Education School for all agents in Burlington County.  She was also Director and instructor for the TA Title’s School of Title Insurance Education in Pennsylvania.
She moved to Florida in 2001 and soon thereafter received her Broker’s License, Title Insurance, Mortgage Broker’s and Instructor’s License in Florida and became a certified Instructor for Florida Realtors.  She was Mentor/Trainer for Exit Real Estate and Keller Williams Winter Park Realty, while maintaining a Team and annual multi million dollar production.  In 2011, she was top 100 in Central Florida for production and closed sales.   Currently, she is Broker Owner of 2 real estate companies.
But her passion is teaching.  She brings her excitement for the business and extensive knowledge and expertise to her classroom.
Real Estate Instructor
Cece Campbell transitioned to Real Estate from the Financial Industry in 2012 joining Gold Coast in 2019. Cece has been in the business world for Read More...
Courtney Cece CampbellReal Estate Instructor

Cece Campbell transitioned to Real Estate from the Financial Industry in 2012 joining Gold Coast in 2019. Cece has been in the business world for over 25 years wearing many hats from Sales Manager, to VP of Sales, to Financial Consultant, to CEO of her own company and most recently Author. Cece is a proven leader in new business development and has also had great success in sales training, as well as helping others to close deals. She has traveled all across America developing and presenting seminars on complex information in a format that is easy to understand.

Cece has coached and counseled many Real Estate Associates in believing they can, therefore helping them achieve the mindset to success. You will find her passion addictive and her skills to help you attain your goal second to none.

Real Estate Instructor
CRB, CRS, CIPS, GRI, ABR, AHWD, MRP, PSA, GKC Rowen College of Burlington County Licensed Real Estate Broker Broker/Owner, Legends Realty Director, Florida Realtors Director, Read More...
Daniel A. LopezReal Estate Instructor

CRB, CRS, CIPS, GRI, ABR, AHWD, MRP, PSA, GKC

  • Rowen College of Burlington County
  • Licensed Real Estate Broker
  • Broker/Owner, Legends Realty
  • Director, Florida Realtors
  • Director, ORRA (Orlando Regional Realtor Association)
Real Estate Instructor
Since joining the Gold Coast team of instructors in 1995, Dan Coco has helped thousands of students obtain their real estate sales associate license.  Dan Read More...
Dan CocoReal Estate Instructor

Since joining the Gold Coast team of instructors in 1995, Dan Coco has helped thousands of students obtain their real estate sales associate license.  Dan typically teaches the sales associate 4-week morning class, the math review seminar, and occasionally the weekend CRAM course.  He is also the author of “Real Estate Math Made Easy!”, a popular study aid used by real estate students who want to further prepare for the math portion of the real estate licensing exam.

Dan is a member of the National Association of Realtors and holds a real estate broker’s license.  He enjoys playing tennis, watching movies, reading books, and photography.

Real Estate Instructor
Diane SkopasReal Estate Instructor
Real Estate Instructor
Ed Wachuku joined Gold Coast in July, 2017. As a life-long learner and an ardent advocate of continued education, he holds several local, national and Read More...
Ed WachukuReal Estate Instructor

Ed Wachuku joined Gold Coast in July, 2017. As a life-long learner and an ardent advocate of continued education, he holds several local, national and international Real Estate designations and certifications. Ed has been active in the Real Estate business in Florida and New York as a broker, investor, instructor, coach and entrepreneur. A Certified International Property Specialist, Ed has extensive experience in the marketing and sale of real property in both local and international markets. Born and raised in Africa, his love for global tourism, and extensive business networking resulted in his enormous and diverse contacts around the globe. In his free time he enjoys playing Chess to sharpen his mind. In addition he gives back to his community by mentoring local high school kids to help them have a stronger head start in life.

Spanish Real Estate Instructor
Eduardo  joined Gold Coast in 2005 teaching real estate FREC 1, the CRAM review course, and the real estate post-license course.  He has taught more Read More...
Eduardo Perez OriveSpanish Real Estate Instructor

Eduardo  joined Gold Coast in 2005 teaching real estate FREC 1, the CRAM review course, and the real estate post-license course.  He has taught more than 5000 students and enjoys participating in their development and career success.  He is a licensed real estate Broker, Instructor, and was previously a Mortgage Broker.  Eduardo also holds a BA in Business Administration and Post Graduate in Marketing and Strategy.  He is a professional businessman and entrepreneur who loves to play Monopoly.

Real Estate Instructor
Frances joined Gold Coast Schools in 1999 and teaches virtually every real estate course that Gold Coast has to offer including the Sales Associate Pre-license Read More...
Frances JarvisReal Estate Instructor

Frances joined Gold Coast Schools in 1999 and teaches virtually every real estate course that Gold Coast has to offer including the Sales Associate Pre-license and Post-license, Broker Pre-license and Post-license, as well as Continuing Education courses.  She is currently an active Real Estate Broker and Instructor and previously held a Mortgage Broker, Title Agent, Series 6 & 23, and a Life, Health, and Variable Annuity license.  Frances attended Miami-Dade Community College and loves spending time with her 3 daughters and 8 grandchildren.

Real Estate Instructor
Fred DeFalco Jr has extensive experience with customer relations in buying and selling real estate, property management in a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment, experience as a Read More...
Fred DeFalcoReal Estate Instructor

Fred DeFalco Jr has extensive experience with customer relations in buying and selling real estate, property management in a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment, experience as a real estate investor, an education in finance and real estate. In his current position as a Real Estate Broker his real estate skills are strengthened as well as his ability to adapt in an ever-changing, fast-paced environment. During his employment he has developed real-world experience that allows him to recognize the importance of continuous learning, creative thinking, and working with others to reach established goals and produce maximum results. Fred currently holds a Florida Real Estate Broker license, a Community Association Manager license and a Real Estate Instructor license. Fred is active in volunteer work and loves spending time with his 2 daughters.

Real Estate Instructor
Gilberto started as an instructor with Gold Coast Schools in March of 2019. He brings over 20 years of real estate sales and leasing experience Read More...
Gilberto OcampoReal Estate Instructor

Gilberto started as an instructor with Gold Coast Schools in March of 2019. He brings over 20 years of real estate sales and leasing experience in South Florida to the classroom. He currently holds a Broker License along with a degree in Computer Information Systems and a MBA.

Real Estate Instructor
Brevard Community College Licensed Real Estate Broker MLO Instructor
Ina L. WilliamsReal Estate Instructor
  • Brevard Community College
  • Licensed Real Estate Broker
  • MLO Instructor
Real Estate Instructor
Jack began teaching at Gold Coast in 1998 and is passionate and experienced in teaching all of our real estate courses.  He holds a real Read More...
Jack BennettReal Estate Instructor

Jack began teaching at Gold Coast in 1998 and is passionate and experienced in teaching all of our real estate courses.  He holds a real estate instructor license and real estate broker license, as well as has a B.S. Degree from Purdue University.

Real Estate Instructor
AA, St. Petersburg College BA, Florida State University Licensed Real Estate Broker
James Lowe, ABR, ALHS, ASR, PRMReal Estate Instructor
  • AA, St. Petersburg College
  • BA, Florida State University
  • Licensed Real Estate Broker
Real Estate Instructor
Jorge is a seasoned Loan Officer and Real Estate Broker who has been in the Real Estate Industry and the Education sphere for over 20 Read More...
Jorge SchlaefliReal Estate Instructor

Jorge is a seasoned Loan Officer and Real Estate Broker who has been in the Real Estate Industry and the Education sphere for over 20 years. He has a degree in Computer Engineering from UCF as well as studying Business Administration and Management.

Jorge has not only been teaching Real Estate professionals for over 15 years, but he is also an Instructor for the US Army’s Special Forces. He is passionate about helping people, whether it is in choosing the right home for them or starting a new career in real estate.

Spanish Real Estate Instructor
Jose Miguel Arreaza joined Gold Coast Schools in 2012 and serves as a real estate instructor who teaches the Spanish 45-hour Post-license course.  He holds Read More...
Jose Miguel ArreazaSpanish Real Estate Instructor

Jose Miguel Arreaza joined Gold Coast Schools in 2012 and serves as a real estate instructor who teaches the Spanish 45-hour Post-license course.  He holds a real estate broker and instructor license, 2-15 insurance license, and previously held a mortgage broker license.  Prior to working at Gold Coast, Jose worked as a Realtor and brings real world experience into the classroom for students to benefit from.  He previously studied law and business administration in Venezuela.  When not teaching, Jose’s hobby is running.

Real Estate Instructor
With over 15 years in real estate, Jose has worked as a sales associate, owner-manager of a brokerage of 90+ agents, and as a real Read More...
Jose Gabriel RodriguezReal Estate Instructor

With over 15 years in real estate, Jose has worked as a sales associate, owner-manager of a brokerage of 90+ agents, and as a real estate instructor. Jose has obtained the CRS®, GRI®, e-Pro® designations, is Microsoft Office certified, and holds a Community Association Manager’s license, in addition to his BA in Management Information Systems.

Jose is bilingual and teaches classes with a combination of real estate knowledge, real-world experience, and a sense of humor that provides students with a relaxed yet informative and entertaining learning environment.

Spanish Real Estate Instructor
Juan Carlos Velasquez is an excellent real estate instructor  who joined Gold Coast in 2014 and teaches the FREC 1 Sales Associate Pre-license course.  He Read More...
Juan Carlos VelasquezSpanish Real Estate Instructor

Juan Carlos Velasquez is an excellent real estate instructor  who joined Gold Coast in 2014 and teaches the FREC 1 Sales Associate Pre-license course.  He holds a Real Estate Sales Associate license as well as a 2-20 & 2-15 insurance license.  Prior to joining Gold Coast, Juan Carols worked for an insurance agency.  He holds a Bachelors Degree in Economics from the University of San Luis Gonzaga, Peru.  When not working, he has a passion for art and loves to draw and oil paint.

Real Estate Instructor
Keith teaches the 1-week Sales Associate Pre-license course and is well known as an excellent instructor for helping students pass both the course and state Read More...
Keith GrandyReal Estate Instructor

Keith teaches the 1-week Sales Associate Pre-license course and is well known as an excellent instructor for helping students pass both the course and state exam.  He joined Gold Coast in 2004 and is dedicated to making the classroom experience enjoyable and memorable for students.  Keith is a licensed Real Estate Broker and Instructor and comes from a background in the banking industry.  When not teaching, Keith enjoys traveling and regularly drives from Miami to Toronto, Canada.

Real Estate Instructor
Larry Singh has 15 years experience in the real estate industry in roles varying from real estate agent, broker, and appraiser within South Florida. Currently Read More...
Larry SinghReal Estate Instructor
Larry Singh has 15 years experience in the real estate industry in roles varying from real estate agent, broker, and appraiser within South Florida. Currently Larry serves as a District Manager, instructor, and mentor to other real estate professionals. He has worked with new and seasoned agents on improving their customer care, general marketing, and business development techniques. Honesty and integrity, along with determination and dedication, are philosophies that Larry strives for in all aspects of his life. Applying these principles to his business has allowed him to explore positions in the corporate and government sectors of real estate. His background including a bachelor’s degree in real estate has given him the opportunity to work for some of the largest organizations in the state of Florida.
 
On his down time Larry likes to spend time with his two wonderful sons and beautiful wife. 
Real Estate Instructor
 BA, Florida State University Licensed Real Estate Broker
Lief Erickson, CRBReal Estate Instructor
  •  BA, Florida State University
  • Licensed Real Estate Broker
Real Estate Instructor
Lisa Viscaino started as an instructor for Gold Coast in September 2018.  Lisa has been proud to share her vast knowledge and experience with our Read More...
Lisa ViscainoReal Estate Instructor

Lisa Viscaino started as an instructor for Gold Coast in September 2018.  Lisa has been proud to share her vast knowledge and experience with our future Realtors.  She sees it to be a great honor to be a part of a person’s professional growth. Lisa has attained her Certified Residential Specialist designation and is a current member of the Honor Society. In 2019 she has the distinct honor of serving as President of the Women’s Council of Realtors Miami Dade. Throughout all of her professional and personal accomplishments she finds that anything is possible as long as you work towards your dreams and goals.

Real Estate Instructor
Ignacio joined Gold Coast Schools in 2016 and is an exceptional real estate instructor teaching the sales associate and broker pre-license and post-license as well Read More...
Luis TupacyupanquiReal Estate Instructor

Ignacio joined Gold Coast Schools in 2016 and is an exceptional real estate instructor teaching the sales associate and broker pre-license and post-license as well as continuing education and CRAM review courses. He’s a Highly knowledgeable and experienced Real Estate Broker & Instructor with demonstrated success in real estate acquisition, management & disposition. Proven ability to assess client needs, establish rapport, build trust & close deals. Expert at growing bottom-line profitability by cultivating strong industry alliances and negotiating vendor partnerships. He has been in the Real Estate industry for twenty years. Also he have served as board member of Miami Federal Credit Union Board of Director. Ignacio shares his passion for teaching, and goes above and beyond to help students pass their state licensing exams and start their real estate careers. When not teaching, Ignacio enjoys traveling around the world with his family.

Education

  • Master of Science in Int’l Real Estate
  • BBA in Int’l Finance & Marketing
  • Leadership Summit
  • Leadership Development Certificate

Licenses / Credential / Certificate

  • Real Estate Broker License  2002
  • State of Georgia since 2008
  • Real Estate Instructor License 2008
  • Doing Business in China Certificate  2008
  • Skills for Success Certificate 2012

 

 

Real Estate Instructor
ABR, AHWD, CRS, CSP, GRI, SRES® , TRC  Licensed Real Estate Broker Licensed Community Association Manager
Marilyn “Charli” PhelpsReal Estate Instructor

ABR, AHWD, CRS, CSP, GRI, SRES® , TRC

  •  Licensed Real Estate Broker
  • Licensed Community Association Manager
Real Estate Instructor
Marlene Montenegro began her real estate career more than 15 years ago.  Her career path led to roles as Designated REALTOR® and Managing Broker where Read More...
Marlene MontenegroReal Estate Instructor

Marlene Montenegro began her real estate career more than 15 years ago.  Her career path led to roles as Designated REALTOR® and Managing Broker where Marlene participated in hundreds of residential and commercial real estate transactions. She was appointed Administrative Hearing Officer for a local government agency to preside over hearings for violations of adopted codes, including building and property maintenance. Marlene has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Miami and an Associate in Science in Radio and Television Broadcast Programming from Miami Dade College. She is licensed as Real Estate Broker and Instructor. In her Real Estate Instructor role, Marlene has extensive experience teaching Pre-licensing, Post-licensing, Continuing Education, and State Exam Review courses and enjoys sharing her passion for building real estate careers at Gold Coast Schools.

Real Estate Instructor
Marylin joined Gold Coast Schools in 2012 and is an exceptional real estate instructor teaching the sales associate and broker pre-license and post-license as well Read More...
Marylin GuevaraReal Estate Instructor

Marylin joined Gold Coast Schools in 2012 and is an exceptional real estate instructor teaching the sales associate and broker pre-license and post-license as well as continuing education and CRAM review courses.  She holds both a real estate broker and instructor license, a GRI designation, and has a bachelors degree from Barry University in Nuclear Medicine.

Prior to working at Gold Coast, Marylin worked at a Brickell Law Firm working with real estate and corporate matters.  From there she worked at Coldwell Banker as a Sales Associate from 2003-2009 in addition to teaching pre and post licensing classes.  Beyond having a passion for helping students succeed, Marylin is a huge animal lover.

Real Estate Instructor
Melodee has been working at Gold Coast Schools since 1992 and is a real estate instructor at the Boca campus. She teaches the sales associate Read More...
Melodee AshbyReal Estate Instructor

Melodee has been working at Gold Coast Schools since 1992 and is a real estate instructor at the Boca campus. She teaches the sales associate pre-license and post-license courses.  Melodee has a real estate instructor’s license and a real estate broker’s license. Before teaching at Gold Coast, she spent 2 years at the Philadelphia Drama Workshop and as taken many real estate training courses. She has experience working as a manager at a real estate office, real estate trainer, real estate sales associate, acting and directing teacher for children, director of a youth group at a church, motel manager, motel desk clerk, chamber maid and 2 years working with Atlantic City Modeling Guild.

Melodee is passionate about teaching and helping others obtain their goals in life. She says, “I am also passionate about living, learning and hopefully touching the lives of others.” When she is not at work she enjoys spending time with family and friends, swimming, reading, writing, walking and watching old movies.

 

Real Estate Instructor
Raquel is an accomplished, multiple award winning, and financially astute executive.  She has domestic experience in operations, P&L oversight, and marketing involving both start-up and Read More...
Raquel CuneoReal Estate Instructor

Raquel is an accomplished, multiple award winning, and financially astute executive.  She has domestic experience in operations, P&L oversight, and marketing involving both start-up and growth organizations. She has been frequently promoted in recognition of innovation, problem solving, and delivering results consistently for over 20 years. Raquel can be described as sharp, confident, and consistent driver of growth-oriented initiatives with diverse skill for deepening levels of team engagement.

Education:

  • Broward College
  • Gold Coast School Of Real Estate
  • Ketcham Education Providers Teaching Techniques
  • IFREC Real Estate Schools Business Ethics Core Law
  • National Association of REALTORS Code of Ethics Professional Standards
  • Graduate REALTOR Institute Standard of Practice 1
  • Certified Short Sale Professional Designation CSP
  • Fundamentals of Commercial Real Estate
  • Tax Deferred 1031 Exchange
  • Real Estate Investment

Raquel enjoys spending time with good friends and family, in addition to attending sporting events, reading history books, and boating.

Real Estate Instructor
Ray Clemente is a Real Estate instructor who joined Gold Coast in 2016 and brings extensive experience in many professional licensing industries including Real Estate, Read More...
Ray ClementeReal Estate Instructor

Ray Clemente is a Real Estate instructor who joined Gold Coast in 2016 and brings extensive experience in many professional licensing industries including Real Estate, CAM, Appraisal and Insurance.  He currently teaches Gold Coast’s Sales Associate and Broker pre-license and post-license courses, as well as continuing education.  His list of professional licenses include:

  • Florida Real Estate Broker
  • Community Association Manager
  • All Lines Adjuster
  • Registered Trainee Appraiser
  • General Lines Agent

Prior to joining Gold Coast, Ray held various roles through his career that range from business advisory to C-level financial leadership with a specialized niche in commercial real estate, asset management and a major multi-mixed land development project that consisted of a Four Seasons branded 218 key hotel, a Greg Norm Golf Course, mega yacht marina, casino and a utility plant on Great Exuma, Bahamas, as the Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Other experience includes maintaining banking and investor relationships, business start-ups & divestments, mezzanine debt capital structuring & creditor workouts, receivership and risk management.

Ray’s education includes:

  • Florida International University Master of Accountancy
  • Iona College Post Master Certificate in Information Decision Technology Management
  • Iona College Master of Business Administration in Financial Management
  • Mercy College Master of Science in Organizational Leadership
  • Mercy College Bachelor of Science in Accounting
  • Certified International Property Specialist
  • Certified Manager of Community Association
  • Accredited Claims Adjuster

When not teaching, Ray enjoys traveling and watching movies and Broadway plays.

Real Estate Instructor
Rick has been a Real Estate Broker for more than 25 years. During this time, he has sold more than 1,500 homes and managed over Read More...
Rick SuarezReal Estate Instructor

Rick has been a Real Estate Broker for more than 25 years. During this time, he has sold more than 1,500 homes and managed over 7,500 transactions in Miami Dade & Broward County. Rick became an instructor for Gold Coast Schools in 2018 and is proud to bring his vast amount of experience to help students succeed out in the field.

Real Estate Instructor
Shari Carpenter has 30 years of diverse experiences handling complex administrative activities through the field of Real Estate, REO sales, Short Sales, Recruiting, Advancement, and Read More...
Shari CarpenterReal Estate Instructor

Shari Carpenter has 30 years of diverse experiences handling complex administrative activities through the field of Real Estate, REO sales, Short Sales, Recruiting, Advancement, and Public Administration.

Her professional experiences include: Vendor management, Acquisition, sales and leasing, manage real estate agents, customer relations, RE0  listing and buyers agent,  admissions, enrollments, recruitment, hiring, training, supervising support personnel and teachers, development, writing curriculum, grants, scholarship funding, corporate funding, planning and implementing special events, educational programs, acting as a community and corporate liaison, and facilitator.

2002.2002 Gold Coast Real Estate School, Fort Lauderdale, Fl, Licensed Real Estate Broker.

1990.1992 Florida International University, Miami, Fl, Masters in Public Administration

1981.1983 Florida International University, Miami, Fl Bachelors in Communications

Real Estate Instructor
Shelia Goodrum first began a real estate career in 1995 and the began teaching with Gold Coast Schools in 2019. Shelia is a US Navy Read More...
Shelia GoodrumReal Estate Instructor

Shelia Goodrum first began a real estate career in 1995 and the began teaching with Gold Coast Schools in 2019. Shelia is a US Navy Veteran that served our country during Desert Storm/Desert Shield. Over the years, Shelia has provided professional real estate services to many within FL, KY, and MO.  She is experienced with traditional sales, new construction, managing and listing foreclosure, property repairs & renovation, BPOs, as well as REO asset preservation.  Shelia is a licensed Real Estate Broker, Real Estate Instructor, Mortgage Loan Originator, and All Lines Insurance Producer.

Shelia is a humanitarian at heart. She has funded several fresh wells in Asia, contributed to the building of an orphanage and school in Haiti, supports Toys-4-Tots, Salvation Army Angel Tree, and numerous back-to-school programs for kids by helping to purchase & distribute much needed school supplies to our youths.  Sheila is also an ongoing contributor to food banks, regularly collect & donate items to Veterans, Salvation Army, and Goodwill.

Shelia enjoys the outdoors activities, paint-ball, charitable poker-runs with other veterans, comedy, live theater, décor, and spending time with the grandkids.

Real Estate Instructor
Steve is a licensed real estate broker and instructor who has been in the real estate business since 1981.  He began teaching Gold Coast’s sales Read More...
Steven GaffneyReal Estate Instructor

Steve is a licensed real estate broker and instructor who has been in the real estate business since 1981.  He began teaching Gold Coast’s sales associate pre-license, post-license, continuing education, and CRAM courses in 2011, and is well liked for his engaging teaching style.  After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Florida, Steve owned an antique mall, worked as a real estate broker who owned and operated his own office, served as a property manager, and specialized in both commercial and residential real estate.  When not teaching, Steve has a passion for buying, restoring, and selling antique muscle cars.

 

 

Real Estate Instructor
Terry joined Gold Coast in 2002 and is a highly experienced real estate instructors.  He teaches the following courses: Sales Associate Pre-Licensing Sales Associates Post Read More...
Terry NeroReal Estate Instructor

Terry joined Gold Coast in 2002 and is a highly experienced real estate instructors.  He teaches the following courses:

  • Sales Associate Pre-Licensing
  • Sales Associates Post Licensing
  • Broker Pre-Licensing
  • Broker Post Licensing
  • Continuing Education
  • State Exam Cram Review

Terry holds a Florida Real Estate Broker license and a Florida Real Estate Instructor permit.  When not working, he enjoys traveling, playing racket ball, weekend trips to the Florida Keys and the West Coast of Florida each month.

Real Estate Instructor
Tom joined Gold Coast in 2005 and is an excellent teacher for the broker pre-license, broker post-license, sales associate post-license, continuing education, and the CRAM Read More...
Tom TimmonsReal Estate Instructor

Tom joined Gold Coast in 2005 and is an excellent teacher for the broker pre-license, broker post-license, sales associate post-license, continuing education, and the CRAM course.  He currently holds a broker and instructor license, and still works as an active broker.  His experience in the industry enables him to combine the textbook material with real world information that helps students acquire the knowledge they need to succeed both in the course, as well as in their careers.  Tom graduated from the Michigan State University and loves the great outdoors.

Real Estate Instructor
BS/BA University of Central Florida Licensed Real Estate Broker Associate
Tyler N. Thomas, GRIReal Estate Instructor
  • BS/BA University of Central Florida
  • Licensed Real Estate Broker
  • Associate
Real Estate Instructor
BS, Florida Memorial University MBA, St. Thomas University Academic Advisor, Keiser University Fort Pierce Area Council Member Licensed Real Estate Broker
Valinda Hanna-LazarusReal Estate Instructor
  • BS, Florida Memorial University
  • MBA, St. Thomas University
  • Academic Advisor, Keiser University
  • Fort Pierce Area Council Member
  • Licensed Real Estate Broker
Real Estate Instructor
BS, University of Miami Owner/Broker, Ocean Real Estate Group, LLC (FL and SC)
Vivian GonzalezReal Estate Instructor
  • BS, University of Miami
  • Owner/Broker, Ocean Real Estate Group, LLC (FL and SC)
Real Estate Instructor
Walt has been an Instructor at Gold Coast Schools since 1998.  He teaches the real estate sales associate pre-license course and the CRAM review which Read More...
Walt LesbirelReal Estate Instructor

Walt has been an Instructor at Gold Coast Schools since 1998.  He teaches the real estate sales associate pre-license course and the CRAM review which prepares students to pass the state exam. Over the years, Walt has taught all of the real estate courses that Gold Coast offers.

Walt teaches at the Lantana campus and is passionate about perfecting the materials used to teach so that he can better guide students towards success in their new careers. He has a real estate instructors license, real estate broker’s license, Bachelor’s Degree (BBA U of M), J.D. New York Law School. Before Gold Coast, he was an officer in the US Navy for 5 years and toured in Vietnam and England. He has 30 years of experience in data processing, 20 years in business law and approximately 15 years in real estate. When he is not teaching real estate classes, Walt enjoys spending time with family, playing golf and reading.

 

Insurance Instructors

Insurance Instructor
Alan has been in the financial services industry since 1997. He is a fully licensed 2-15 life, health and variable annuity agent as well as Read More...
Alan LichtmanInsurance Instructor

Alan has been in the financial services industry since 1997. He is a fully licensed 2-15 life, health and variable annuity agent as well as holding a variety of securities licenses including the series 7 and 24. Alan started his career on the banking side of the industry before becoming the Chief Compliance Officer of a national firm.

Today, Alan spends his time working his own practice and has enjoyed teaching insurance and continuing education at Gold Coast since 2008. Imparting his knowledge and experience in a beneficial and enthusiastic way is Alan’s passion and gifting.

Insurance Instructor
Bob Halverson is an excellent Property and Casualty and Surplus Lines insurance instructor, and has been with Gold Coast since 2011.  Prior to obtaining his Read More...
Bob HalversonInsurance Instructor

Bob Halverson is an excellent Property and Casualty and Surplus Lines insurance instructor, and has been with Gold Coast since 2011.  Prior to obtaining his 2-15, 2-20, & 1-20 insurance licenses, Bob was a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force, commercial airlines pilot, and a corporate pilot.  He gained a tremendous amount of his insurance experience through owning an insurance agency for many years before focusing on teaching new agents how to be successful in this lucrative field.

Bob is a proud member of the AOPA, EAA, Elks, and American Legion and continues to enjoy flying his own personal aircraft.  He often travels to Columbia and is enjoying his semi-retirement between teaching and traveling.

 

Insurance Instructor
Bob Lederman joined Gold Coast in 2017 with 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, including six years teaching pre-licensing and continuing education courses. Read More...
Bob LedermanInsurance Instructor

Bob Lederman joined Gold Coast in 2017 with 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, including six years teaching pre-licensing and continuing education courses. He continues in that role at the Lantana facility where he derives his greatest satisfaction when he sees that his students get what insurance is all about.

Bob holds a 220 General Lines and a 215 Life, Health and Variable Annuity license. He has also held series 6 and 63 licenses and is a former CPA. He owned and operated his own Allstate agency in Deerfield Beach.

When he is not teaching, Bob enjoys reading ‘Spy-Fi’ novels, swimming and being with his wife and family.

Insurance Instructor
Carlos Celta’s tenure in sales began in 2003. Since that time, he has mastered a skill-set of serving and education people. In 2012, Carlos, along Read More...
Carlos CeltaInsurance Instructor

Carlos Celta’s tenure in sales began in 2003. Since that time, he has mastered a skill-set of serving and education people. In 2012, Carlos, along with his family, moved from Venezuela to the USA, requiring him to restart almost all aspects of his life. Fortunately, with his sales background, he was provided an opportunity in the insurance business; a decision has not regretted.

His years within the insurance field has allowed him to focus on the practices of life insurance,  health insurance, and finances.  As an insurance instructor, Carlos is committed to helping people obtain and understand the necessary knowledge and skills , required to obtain and maintain their State license. Carlos lives in the Orlando area and is looking forward to helping those new to the field embrace their newfound career.

Insurance Instructor
Debora Willis joined the Gold Coast team in 2015 as a Property and Casualty Insurance Instructor at the Doral Campus. She is a Certified Insurance Read More...
Debra WillisInsurance Instructor

Debora Willis joined the Gold Coast team in 2015 as a Property and Casualty Insurance Instructor at the Doral Campus. She is a Certified Insurance Counselor and a Certified Risk Manager. She has over 25 years of insurance experience working in small agencies and large top 10 brokers. She has handled everything from homeowner policies to hospitals, and taught P&C licensing for Dade County Schools and the Florida Insurance School.

Debora truly enjoys teaching insurance and is passionate about seeing her students do well in her class and then becoming passionate about insurance just like she is. She says, “Insurance is a diverse, ever changing field with limitless opportunity.” She wants her students to succeed in the course and their new profession. When not reading new policy forms, she likes to travel with her husband, hunt for antiques and spend time with her cats.

Insurance Instructor
Evan has been a licensed insurance agent for over 20 years. He enjoys building new relationships with clients and always makes sure to provide them Read More...
Evan KleegerInsurance Instructor

Evan has been a licensed insurance agent for over 20 years. He enjoys building new relationships with clients and always makes sure to provide them with an insurance policy tailored to their specific needs.

Throughout his insurance career, Evan has been recognized as Agent of the Year and has received many accolades. In addition to his sales career, Evan is a distinguished instructor. Instructing on a state and national platform, Evan brings passion and dedication to his students.

Evan is a graduate of the City University of New York at Kingsborough and resides in Boca Raton, FL, with his wife Claudia and dog Benji.

Insurance Instructor
Ismary Cardoso is a Business Management graduate from Western Governor’s University, and is currently working on finishing her MBA from the same school. She also Read More...
Ismary CardosoInsurance Instructor

Ismary Cardoso is a Business Management graduate from Western Governor’s University, and is currently working on finishing her MBA from the same school. She also holds a Florida General Lines insurance license, is a Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), and an Accredited Advisor in Insurance (AAI). Ismary has been in the insurance industry for 4 years, and is passionate about understanding the foundation of the property and casualty principles, as well as sharing her knowledge and helping others find a fulfilling career in the industry as she did herself. Originally from Cuba with a professional background in Translation and Linguistics, she enjoys reading and writing, researching technical terms in several languages, and learning all kinds of different cultures. On her free time she loves to travel and dance. She plans to retire as an insurance professional, helping organizations manage and mitigate their risks.

Insurance Instructor
Jerry started his insurance career in 1980 by being a life and health agent. He took his 2-20 course at Gold Coast and passed on Read More...
Jerry TylerInsurance Instructor

Jerry started his insurance career in 1980 by being a life and health agent. He took his 2-20 course at Gold Coast and passed on his first attempt at the state test. He worked for agents until he was appointed as an agent for a major insurance company. He started his own agency in 2007 and retired in 2019. Instructing at Gold Coast gives him an opportunity to give back to the industry that has been so good to him and his family. He is a member of the Society of Insurance Trainers and Educators. He has a B.Min. degree from SBC and enjoys writing songs, recording and playing his guitar.

Insurance Instructor
Jessy teaches insurance licensing courses and is passionate about helping students obtain the license they need to start new careers.  When not working, Jessy enjoys Read More...
Jessy DeFreitasInsurance Instructor

Jessy teaches insurance licensing courses and is passionate about helping students obtain the license they need to start new careers.  When not working, Jessy enjoys spending time with grandchildren and family.

Insurance Instructor
Kevin is currently teaching pre-licensing and continuing education classes for life, health and annuity. Kevin earned his BS in Biology from SUNY Fredonia, an MBA Read More...
Kevin Wenke MBA, CFP© CLU©Insurance Instructor

Kevin is currently teaching pre-licensing and continuing education classes for life, health and annuity.

Kevin earned his BS in Biology from SUNY Fredonia, an MBA from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is a Certified Financial Planner™ and Chartered Life Underwriter™ who works with business owners and retirees all over the country in his personal practice.

Kevin currently holds his 2-15 and 2-20 insurance licenses, is a licensed tax preparer and has held his Securities Series 6,7 and 66 licenses in the past as well.

In his spare time Kevin enjoys good food, good stories, a good work-out, meeting new people and spending time with friends and family.

Insurance Instructor
Lynn joined the life and annuity, and accident and health teaching staff in 2014 and brings more than 30 years of insurance, stocks, bonds, and Read More...
Lynn SanfordInsurance Instructor

Lynn joined the life and annuity, and accident and health teaching staff in 2014 and brings more than 30 years of insurance, stocks, bonds, and mutual fund experience to courses that she teaches. In addition to pre-licensing courses, Lynn projects her knowledge of the insurance industry through her instruction of post-licensing continuing education seminars. Her favorite topics include annuities and senior products, life and disability coverages, and ethical requirements and suitability. Lynn enjoys spending time at the beach, traveling, and being with family when not in front of her students.

Insurance Instructor
Mike is a highly experienced insurance instructor who teaches the Surplus Lines Pre-licensing course at Gold Coast Schools.  He has more than 40 years of Read More...
Michael HanuschakInsurance Instructor

Mike is a highly experienced insurance instructor who teaches the Surplus Lines Pre-licensing course at Gold Coast Schools.  He has more than 40 years of insurance experience holding both a 1-20 and 2-20 license that is valid across 38 US states, and is also a registered professional engineer in California.  Mike has a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering (BSIE) degree from Western New England University and is a Visiting Lecturer at Providence College School of Engineering.  He also spent 20 years with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Insurance Instructor
Randy Gordon started teaching insurance courses at Gold Coast in 2017 and currently teaches the continuing education and pre-licensing for Property and Casually agents. He Read More...
Randy GordonInsurance Instructor

Randy Gordon started teaching insurance courses at Gold Coast in 2017 and currently teaches the continuing education and pre-licensing for Property and Casually agents. He holds a 2-20 General Lines license and has an Accredited Advisor of Insurance designation. He enjoys teaching the future agents using real world examples and techniques that make understanding the information exciting.

In addition to teaching at Gold Coast, Randy is an active agent selling policies. When he is not working in the field and teaching in the classroom, Randy enjoys golf and spending time with his family.

Insurance Instructor
Shawna holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business Economics from Florida A & M University.  She started her career in finance with Miami-Dade County Read More...
Shawna Josey-DayeInsurance Instructor

Shawna holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business Economics from Florida A & M University.  She started her career in finance with Miami-Dade County government where she held several administrative positions during her 9 years there.  In 2003, Shawna obtained her 215 insurance license and began a career as an agent with AIG.  In 2007 she became an Associate Manager with AIG, a position she held for 7 years.  Shawna was ranked the #1 Associate Manager with AIG in 2013, earning her the industry’s Brian Early Award.  A boardmember for two years, Shawna has been a member of the National Association for Insurance and Financial Advisors for the last 14 years. She also obtained her Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow designation in 2013.

Shawna is a third generation insurance professional.  Her grandfather was an insurance agent in Albany, GA.  Her mother, Cheryl Josey, was an agent and manager with AIG for 20 years before retiring in 2011.

Shawna is currently an Associate Director with the South Florida office of Transamerica Agency Network.  She holds an insurance license in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, and Michigan.  Married for 20 years, she is also mother to a 16 year old daughter, and a 12 year old son.  Shawna loves to read and travel.

CAM Instructors

CAM Instructor
Augusto joined Gold Coast Schools in 2009 as a CAM instructor teaching the CAM Pre-license course, CRAM course, and Continuing Education courses.  He holds a Read More...
Augusto MaldonadoCAM Instructor

Augusto joined Gold Coast Schools in 2009 as a CAM instructor teaching the CAM Pre-license course, CRAM course, and Continuing Education courses.  He holds a CAM license and brings industry experience into the classroom for students to benefit from.  Augusto hold various degrees and certifications including:

  • ROOSEVELT UNIVERSITY, M.B.A.
    1982 Chicago, IL. Master in Business Administration.
    Concentration in Organizational and Human Resources Development
  • UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, B.A. 1974
    Chicago, IL. Bachelor Degree in Latin American Studies
  • THE CORPORATE SYSTEMS DESIGN, INC. 1996
    Organizational consulting with concentration in organizational structure reinvention and redesign, work process alignment, strategic performance optimization, alignment corporate systems, leadership, change agent and team development, reward and employee development.
  • AMERICAN MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION, 1998
    International School of Management, Certified Consultant and Facilitator

When not teaching, Augusto volunteers at his community association, Lions Club, and is politically involved with Ecuadorian issues.

CAM Instructor
Laura brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to Gold Coast in 2015.  She received her community association manager license in 2001, and has CAM Read More...
Laura MatijakCAM Instructor

Laura brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to Gold Coast in 2015.  She received her community association manager license in 2001, and has CAM experience that spans over fifteen years.  Laura earned her PCAM designation from Community Association Institute in 2007.  She is also a member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

As an independent consultant, she worked with developers for five years.  As senior manager with a community association firm in Palm Beach County, Laura provided supervision and training to other managers.

Laura’s educational background is in organizational leadership and employment law. She received her Master’s Degree with Barry University, and served as Adjunct Professor with Barry University from 2005 through 2012.

Laura is still active in the real estate profession as well as community association management.  In her spare time she serves her own community association’s board of directors.  Planning, design, communication and development are her personal enjoyments.

 

 

CAM Instructor
Paul joined Gold Coast Schools in 2015 and is the Assistant to Director of CAM Education.  He teaches and writes CAM continuing education and pre-license Read More...
Paul LibertCAM Instructor

Paul joined Gold Coast Schools in 2015 and is the Assistant to Director of CAM Education.  He teaches and writes CAM continuing education and pre-license courses and brings extensive experience into the classroom.  He has held many licenses including CAM, Life & Health insurance, Series 6, Series 7, and Series 3, was a Certified Financial Planner, and held a Mortgage license.

Prior to joining Gold Coast, Paul was employed as a CAM for approximately 13 years, primarily for troubled high-rises. He wrote courses and trained and supervised instructors to teach community associations directors, officers & residents, through a 501(c)(3). The courses were offered throughout the State of Florida in 2000-2001. He was President of the Northeast Dade Coalition, a community association education & advocacy group representing over 120 associations in Miami-Dade County, for about 10 years.  Paul also served as President of an association board for a short period of time. Through his corporate entity (co-owned with Patricia Rogers), he had contracts with Barry University and Broward Community College, to offer education to community association residents. As a health care professional, he served in high level administrative and/or planning positions in comprehensive health planning councils in LA and Boise and county health departments in Erie County (NY), and Miami-Dade County. Paul successfully wrote grants for these entities. In Miami-Dade County, he successfully negotiated funding from the federal government to help handle the influx of Haitian refugees in the 1980s. Paul’s corporation also wrote and successfully obtained grants for local municipalities in Miami-Dade County.

He holds various degrees and certifications including:

  • State University of NY at Buffalo – B.A. Anthropology
  • University of California, Berkeley – School of Public Health – Master of Public Health (Administration & Planning)
  • College for Financial Planning – Denver, CO – Certified Financial Planner
  • Gold Coast Professional Schools – Insurance, Mortgage & CAM licenses
  • Miami-Dade County – Management Productivity Analyst

Paul has two cats, Dynamuffin and Blueberry Muffin. He has a great sense of humor which he uses to great effect both in business and in personal relationships. With a cousin in NJ, Paul did extensive research tracing his family tree back to the 1700s. He shared his findings with the Montreal branch at a family reunion, including slides of birth, marriage and death certificates, and photographs of some of his ancestors.

CAM Instructor
Ricardo (Rick) Russi received his CAM license in 1995. He also holds a license as a real estate broker, and recently received his license as Read More...
Ricardo RussiCAM Instructor

Ricardo (Rick) Russi received his CAM license in 1995. He also holds a license as a real estate broker, and recently received his license as a  Real Estate Instructor. Rick earned his Bachelor’s degree from Barry University in Legal Studies and his MBA from Florida Atlantic University, in Business Administration. He is currently working on a PhD at Kansas State University, focusing on financial planning  Rick has owned a small business for over 20 years.  He has a strong background in sales, business development, customer and employee relations, and community associations.

An active member of the community, Rick has served on several community committees, including the Miami-Dade County Housing and Urban Development Advisory Board, City of Miami Community Social Development Committee, Metro Miami Action Plan, and the Business Friends of the Northeast Dade Coalition.

In addition to teaching CAM classes with GCPS, Rick is also an adjunct at the school of business at Johnson & Wales University, where he is teaching business and finance courses.

Rick is married and has two daughters.

A recent addition to the GCPS team, Rick notes: “I value the reputation and the quality of Gold Coast Schools. I came here as a student in 1992, and I have been coming to the school for my continuing education ever since. Now I can assist others in achieving their objectives.”

Real Estate & CAM Instructor
Stanley MedowReal Estate & CAM Instructor

Construction Instructors

Construction Instructor
Ali has been in construction since 2005 and is currenlty the Vice President of Stone Concept Miami Inc. He has his Certified General Contractor License, Read More...
Ali SarrafiConstruction Instructor

Ali has been in construction since 2005 and is currenlty the Vice President of Stone Concept Miami Inc. He has his Certified General Contractor License, Home Inspection License, Certified Glass and Glazing License and is OSHA-30 Certified.

Ali got his Bachelor of Construction Management , from Florida International University 2013

Construction Instructor
Charles Stanley has worked for more than thirty years in the mechanical/electrical/plumbing trades. He received his Mechanical and Plumbing contractors licenses from the State of Read More...
Charles StanleyConstruction Instructor

Charles Stanley has worked for more than thirty years in the mechanical/electrical/plumbing trades. He received his Mechanical and Plumbing contractors licenses from the State of Florida in 1993. He is currently serving Gold Coast Schools as an instructor for Air Conditioning and Mechanical contractor license applicants.

Chris Clausing is a Certified General Contractor in the State of Florida with over 20 years’ experience in the Construction and Inspection industry. As a Read More...
Chris Clausing

Chris Clausing is a Certified General Contractor in the State of Florida with over 20 years’ experience in the Construction and Inspection industry. As a Gold Coast Instructor, Chris has helped thousands of students prepare for and pass their certification exams for state licensure. Chris works as a Consultant with The University of Miami – Master of Construction Management Program mentoring future Contractors and Construction Professionals and sits as a Consensus Committee Member for the IECC helping shape the energy codes of the future. As Program and Curriculum Innovation Director, Chris is committed to providing the best learning experience for all Gold Coast students and developing best-in-class industry training programs for lifelong professional development.

Construction Instructor
Daniel “Dan” Villa, AIA is a registered architect. He has been drafting since 1994 and he loves helping people find better ways to do what Read More...
Daniel VillaConstruction Instructor

Daniel “Dan” Villa, AIA is a registered architect. He has been drafting since 1994 and he loves helping people find better ways to do what they do. He is a sole-practitioner currently focusing on single family residential, but he has also been involved in commercial design and construction during his 20+ years in the field. Dan currently teaches Plan Reading.

Construction Instructor
David joined Gold Coast in 2005  and is an Air Conditioning and Mechanical instructor with over 17 years of classroom experience preparing students for the Read More...
David MotolaConstruction Instructor

David joined Gold Coast in 2005  and is an Air Conditioning and Mechanical instructor with over 17 years of classroom experience preparing students for the State of Florida trade exam. He has developed curriculums and questions for in class and online simulators. He passed the A, B, and Mechanical trade exams multiple times. Prior to joining Gold Coast, David worked for Ford Motor Company for 23 years where he handled various service related issues and gained extensive experience in HVAC.  He holds an MBA from Florida Atlantic University and is an ASE Master Automotive and Truck Technician.  In his free time, David enjoys fixing and restoring cars.

David Sawyer has over 10 years of experience as an Instructor and Trainer in the field of Construction Management and Real Estate. He has a Read More...
David Sawyer

David Sawyer has over 10 years of experience as an Instructor and Trainer in the field of Construction Management and Real Estate. He has a master’s degree in construction management from Florida International University. David also holds both a Home Inspection and Real Estate license in Florida.

Construction Instructor
Dawn is an Instructor for Gold Coast and teaches the General Contractor cram classes to aid students in their preparation for their state licensing tests. Read More...
Dawn FerrariConstruction Instructor

Dawn is an Instructor for Gold Coast and teaches the General Contractor cram classes to aid students in their preparation for their state licensing tests. She teaches out of the Tamarac, Lantana, and Doral campuses.

Dawn has an Associate of Arts degree in Secondary Education from Broward Community College, a Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Barry University, Graduate Work in Psychology from Nova University, and a General Contractor license from Gold Coast Schools. She has been working in various phases of the construction industry since 1985. She has been teaching both individuals and small groups in private tutoring here at Gold Coast, and also teaches in a classroom setting. Dawn is passionate about seeing students have that “AH-HA moment” when problem solving.

When not working, Dawn enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, and active adventure traveling. Dawn has completed several bicycle trips across the United States and Canada.

Construction Instructor
Dominick Scarfo is a licensed Florida Architect and Licensed Florida General Contractor. He has been in the Architectural Profession since 1958 and studied at the Read More...
Dominick ScarfoConstruction Instructor

Dominick Scarfo is a licensed Florida Architect and Licensed Florida General Contractor. He has been in the Architectural Profession since 1958 and studied at the Boston Architectural Center, where he won the top student award in his fifth year of studies. He taught for four years at the Boston Architectural Center and opened his own firm in Boston in 1973. He converted old estate buildings into condominiums in the late 70s and early 80s and semi retired until he received a call stating that a former client was having problems getting his building finished in Florida. He came to Florida and got the building completed ahead of time and decided to relocate to Florida. He received his Certified General Contractors License in 1987. He enjoys teaching and helping students and started with Gold Coast Schools in 1998.

Construction Instructor
Gilberto Fernandez is a Certified Building Contractor since 1976, a Certified Roofing Contractor since 2005, and a Certified Home Inspector since 2010. He received his Read More...
Gilberto FernandezConstruction Instructor

Gilberto Fernandez is a Certified Building Contractor since 1976, a Certified Roofing Contractor since 2005, and a Certified Home Inspector since 2010.

He received his Business Administration and Accounting Degree at The Havana & Oriente University – Cuba. Once residing in the US, he attended the following higher learning institutions to improve knowledge in business: Jones College – Orlando, Fla – Administrative Accounting. Rollins College – Winter Park, Fla – Business Administration and Commercial Law Courses.

Gilberto was once the President of the Florida Prestressed Concrete Assn. and held chairmanship of different committees with the association including the FDOT Liaison and Plant Certification, Safety. He conducted presentations and seminars with Trade Associations, Engineers, and Architects about the benefits of utilizing Prestressed Concrete in their design and construction. Gilberto has been married for 46 years with 2 children and 2 grandchildren.

Hans Pinto, originally from Santiago de Chile, has been in construction since 2005, working until 2016 with electrical companies doing things such as replacing old Read More...
Hans Pinto

Hans Pinto, originally from Santiago de Chile, has been in construction since 2005, working until 2016 with electrical companies doing things such as replacing old electrical panels in residential buildings, installing complete electrical systems for brand new homes and rewiring lighting systems for each of the inmates’ cells in one of the towers at a jail in Coconut Creek, just to name a few.

Currently he is the President/Owner of “An American Dream Home Inspection”, his own licensed and certified Home Inspection company, as well as the vice president of a maintenance company servicing restaurants across South Florida. Hans became a part of the Gold Coast roster during the beginning of 2022 and is now an instructor for Home Inspection; he also teaches the cram course the day before the State test and the Home Inspection Continuing Education class as well.

Construction Instructor
Jeff Shanley, a South Florida native, began his career at Miami-Dade College following the curriculum toward becoming a mechanical contractor in 1980. Jeff’s primary background Read More...
Jeff ShanleyConstruction Instructor

Jeff Shanley, a South Florida native, began his career at Miami-Dade College following the curriculum toward becoming a mechanical contractor in 1980. Jeff’s primary background as a Mechanical Contractor has been in Design/Build of commercial projects throughout Florida, then specializing in international work where his specialty in design-build brought him to the General Service Administration (GSA) assigned to the U.S. State Department. During his time with the GSA, Jeff specialized in hospitals, U.S. Embassies, U.S. Interest Sections, and power plants. He was instrumental in identifying and overcoming the challenges of design and installation of mechanical systems in these entities within the unique environments of Cuba, Western Europe, and South America. After nearly two decades, Jeff retired in 2018 from his work with the GSA, and from active contracting endeavors in 2019. During his tenure as a mechanical contractor, Jeff has served as a mentor to dozens of up-and-comers in the industry as they worked their way through Trade and Union School and into their careers. Jeff remains dedicated to enhancing the profession of mechanical contracting and presently serves as an Inspector for the International Building Code Inspector for the GSA and has been an instructor at Gold Coast Schools since 2019. Jeff is happy to answer any questions or provide guidance regarding obtaining one’s license in mechanical contracting, air conditioning, or plumbing. Please contact Jeff at JShanley@goldcoastschools.com.

Construction Instructor
Mr. Joseph C. Rebuck is a state Certified General Contractor since 2003, Joe first joined the Gold Coast team as a part time instructor in Read More...
Joe RebuckConstruction Instructor

Mr. Joseph C. Rebuck is a state Certified General Contractor since 2003, Joe first joined the Gold Coast team as a part time instructor in 2004. Over his career Mr. Rebuck has owned his own General Contracting Company, served as director of Property Management for Lennar Homes Dade Division, was an area Facility Manager for Washington Mutual Bank/CB Richard Ellis as well as an area manager for Kings Point Condominium Association in Tamarac, Florida.

In addition to holding his General Contracting & Roofing Licenses Mr. Rebuck is credentialed as a License Real Estate Broker, Licensed CAM, Licensed Home Inspector, License Mold Assessor & Remediator, LEED AP and a Certified Pool Operator (CPO)

Construction Instructor
Jorge Urrutia has been an instructor at Gold Coast Schools since 1995. He is an instructor for Home Inspection, Wind Mitigation and Continuing Education. He Read More...
Jorge UrrutiaConstruction Instructor

Jorge Urrutia has been an instructor at Gold Coast Schools since 1995. He is an instructor for Home Inspection, Wind Mitigation and Continuing Education. He started his career as a Building Inspector and has since become a Project Manager. He holds a Bachelor Degree in Architecture from the University of Florida and Professional Certifications in General Contracting, Plans Examination, Building Inspection, Home Inspection, Mold Remediation, Mold Assessment and Roofing. He authored our current Wind Mitigation and Home Inspection CE courses.

Construction Instructor
Luis Bentancor joined Gold Coast in 2016 and teaches the General Contractor exam prep courses that help students who are preparing for the state contractor Read More...
Luis BentancorConstruction Instructor

Luis Bentancor joined Gold Coast in 2016 and teaches the General Contractor exam prep courses that help students who are preparing for the state contractor exam. He is an Architect and a General Contractor with years of industry experience that he brings into the classroom to help students succeed. He holds a Bachelor Degree in Architecture from Universidad de la República from Montevideo, Uruguay; he studied Engineering at Universidad Simón Bolívar in Caracas, Venezuela and is a LEED Accredited Professional. He previously worked as a Project Manager for a construction company and as an Associate Architect in an Architectural Studio. He owns and manages his own construction company.

Miguel graduated from Dade County Junior College with a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering Technology in 1969. He started in roadway and bridge construction from Read More...
MIGUEL A. (MIKE) QUESADA

Miguel graduated from Dade County Junior College with a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering Technology in 1969. He started in roadway and bridge construction from 1967 until 1969. He then went on to start in building construction in 1970. He has held his General Contractor license since 1981. In addition, he holds a Roofing Contractor and Home Inspector licenses. Miguel owned a construction business and retired in 2018. He teaches General, Building, Residential and Roofing Contractor courses.

Construction Instructor
Miguel is an experienced Building Code Professional, General, and Roofing Contractor with a demonstrated history of working in the construction and public administration industries. He Read More...
Miguel A. NunezConstruction Instructor

Miguel is an experienced Building Code Professional, General, and Roofing Contractor with a demonstrated history of working in the construction and public administration industries. He has a Master of Construction Management and Public Administration (MPA).

Orlando Cuello is a Construction professional with over 30 years of experience managing private and public construction projects. He graduated from Universidad Piloto in Bogota, Read More...
Orlando Cuello

Orlando Cuello is a Construction professional with over 30 years of experience managing private and public construction projects. He graduated from Universidad Piloto in Bogota, Colombia in 1981 with a bachelor’s degree in Architecture. He continued onto his M.B.A. at Universidad del Norte in Barranquilla, Colombia and graduated in 1997. In addition, he obtained his ESAP (Escuela Superior de Adm. Publica) in Barranquilla, Colombia in 2000 in Public Management. He holds a General Contractor license since 2006.

Senior Home Inspection Instructor IFREC Home Inspection Series Author Florida Home Inspector License HI 1354 Redesign Architectural Services, Owner WHS Home Inspections,Owner IRIS Certified Residential Read More...
William H.”Bill” Smith
  • Senior Home Inspection Instructor
  • IFREC Home Inspection Series Author
  • Florida Home Inspector License HI 1354
  • Redesign Architectural Services, Owner
  • WHS Home Inspections,Owner
  • IRIS Certified Residential Inspector