Michael Thorpe
112 Westcliff Cir Apt D, Warner Robins,GA
Summary
Dedicated Mycology Professional with over 10 years of comprehensive commercial mushroom cultivation experience. Expert in managing all aspects of production lifecycles, from tissue culture to harvest, with specialized knowledge in laboratory design and sterile techniques. Proven track record in optimizing growing room environments and developing efficient cultivation protocols across multiple commercial facilities. Having provided consultation services to diverse mushroom farms, I bring industry-specific knowledge, connections, and innovative approaches to production challenges in Georgia. Possess 15+ years of specialized experience in mycological tissue culture and spawn production, superior genetic selection, and culture purity. Approach mushroom cultivation as a precise science and a refined art form, continuously seeking to blend technological advancements with traditional cultivation wisdom. Committed to pushing the boundaries of production efficiency while maintaining exceptional quality standards. Eager to leverage my passion, technical expertise, and management experience to drive innovation and excellence in commercial mushroom operations.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner
Ideal Mushrooms
06.2015 - Current
- Deployed $75,000 for construction of 3,000 sq. ft laboratory capable of a weekly capacity of 1,000 lbs.
- Designed facility and sourced equipment to optimize labor and energy efficiency.
- Developed and oversaw fabrication of several custom built machines to improve production efficiency.
- Supervised buildout by coordinating electricians, HVAC personnel, boiler mechanics, and contractors.
- Produced approximately 300 lbs of Shiitake, Oyster, Lion's Mane, and King Oyster mushrooms weekly for local restaurants and distributors.
- Delivered between 300 and 400 mushroom blocks weekly to smaller growers in shipping containers.
- Consulted with container growers on design specifications and production efficiency improvements.
- Currently offering consulting services, culture bank and spawn services, while currently pursuing a B.S. in Information Technology at Middle Georgia State University
Consultant
Sparta Imperial Mushrooms
01.2024 - 04.2024
- Hired to restart Sparta Imperial Mushrooms under new ownership
- Consulted on repairs and improvements to essential equipment such as humidification, cleanroom environment(HEPA systems), and substrate processing labor.
- Generated 900 lbs of grain spawn on site for inoculation of 6,000 blocks for initial inventory with a near 0% contamination rate.
Head Grower / Manager
Sparta Imperial Mushrooms
09.2014 - 05.2015
- Sourced raw materials, including oak sawdust, supplements, and cereal grains.
- Educated employees on grain preparation, substrate formulation, and sterilization techniques.
- Increased production from 200 pounds to 800 pounds weekly within two months.
- Maintained sterile lab and culture library for spawn production using submerged fermentation.
- Managed customer relations with major distributors and local markets in Atlanta Metro area, including all Whole Foods stores
- Produced primarily Shiitake mushrooms along with Oyster, Lion's Mane, and King Oyster varieties.
- Ensured compliance with organic certification standards.
- Trained employees to operate independently across all operational aspects.
Horticulturist
Forest Glen Nursery
05.2013 - 09.2014
- Inspected gardens to identify insect or disease problems and weed control needs.
- Retained knowledge of garden plants and understanding of cultural requirements to maximize growth and cultivation.
- Assisted clients in selecting appropriate plants based on climate conditions, sun exposure, soil type, and desired aesthetic appeal.
- Maintained horticultural calendar to track bloom periods and seasonal cultural needs.
- Enhanced plant health by implementing proper pruning, watering, and fertilization techniques.
- Collaborated with landscape architects to create functional outdoor spaces that met client needs and preferences.
- Resolved client concerns promptly through effective communication skills addressing their specific horticultural issues.
Sterilization Technician
J.O. Thorpe General Dentistry
01.2008 - 05.2009
- Reduced risks of infection by consistently maintaining a clean and sterile work environment.
- Sterilized and disinfected dental instruments to prevent growth of bacteria on instruments and surfaces, using American Dental Association protocols.
- Prepared trays with standard dental instruments to promote quick turnover from one patient to next.
- Operated and maintained steam autoclaves by using distilled water, checking for leaks and cleaning air traps and water sensors.
- Supported surgical teams with timely delivery of properly sterilized instruments required for various procedures.
- Wrapped trays, instrument packs, and sets.
- Ordered and restocked supplies for decontamination and surgical areas.
- Followed OSHA, FDA and AAMI guidelines related to sterilization in compliance with administrative regulations.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Information Technology
Middle Georgia State University
Macon, GA04-2027
Skills
- Expert-level spawn production with specialized knowledge of grain preparation and mycelium propagation
- Advanced proficiency in tissue culture techniques including isolation, cloning, and culture maintenance
- Expert in designing and implementing sterile laboratory environments for commercial mushroom cultivation
- Skilled in laboratory workflow optimization to maximize production efficiency and consistency
- Experienced in troubleshooting cultivation issues and implementing corrective measures
- Adept at integrating technological solutions for cultivation monitoring and data analysis
- Demonstrated ability to develop innovative cultivation methods that improve yield and quality
- Experienced in growing room environmental management including humidity, temperature, and air exchange control
- Proficient in training production teams on sterile laboratory techniques and contamination prevention strategies
- Detail-oriented approach to maintaining precise cultivation parameters and documentation
- Skilled in educating staff on substrate preparation, and environmental monitoring protocols
- Skilled in developing standardized operating procedures for all cultivation phases
Timeline
Consultant
Sparta Imperial Mushrooms
01.2024 - 04.2024
Owner
Ideal Mushrooms
06.2015 - Current
Head Grower / Manager
Sparta Imperial Mushrooms
09.2014 - 05.2015
Horticulturist
Forest Glen Nursery
05.2013 - 09.2014
Sterilization Technician
J.O. Thorpe General Dentistry
01.2008 - 05.2009
Bachelor of Science - Information Technology
Middle Georgia State University
Similar Profiles
Cheng Yew LottCheng Yew Lott
Runner at Mercer Mushrooms LtdRunner at Mercer Mushrooms Ltd
Ma Del Carmen CastroMa Del Carmen Castro
Administrative Assistant at To-Jo Foods MushroomsAdministrative Assistant at To-Jo Foods Mushrooms
MOHAMED IBRAHIM SESAYMOHAMED IBRAHIM SESAY
Parking Associate at Highline MushroomsParking Associate at Highline Mushrooms