Learn more about the team at UTEC & what makes us great!
About Us
Meet the Management Team
Kevin Van Kannel
President
Having spent 18 years working in the office equipment industry for the “large box retailers/finance companies”, Kevin always believed there was a better way to take care of customers. Kevin wants our customers to appreciate the creative ways we can apply the latest technology to their office/workflow needs, and see the value of the many flexible programs from their local hometown company.
Kevin says, “In building meaningful relationships and creating a buying experience that exceeds customer expectations, I can be a role model for my three kids. I want them to realize that a business can be successful by earning trust and giving back to the community. It’s important for them to understand there are other ways to build a business but none as rewarding as doing it the right way.”
On a personal note, Kevin wants to take this chance to publicly thank his supportive and beautiful wife, Carolyn. Without her support and understanding, their dream wouldn’t be possible. He also wants to thank his wonderful kids Grace, Grant, and Anna for all of their support and sacrifices as they embark on this journey together as a family.
Tom Harrison
Chief Operating Officer
Tom Harrison brings decades of real-world leadership experience to his role as COO — and a genuine passion for building teams and businesses that thrive. Over the course of his career, Tom has developed extensive experience in organizations ranging in size, from Ford Motor Company and Carhartt to a family-owned Michigan manufacturer, always with a focus on people, culture, and sustainable growth. As Managing Director of Carhartt Europe, he helped bring a beloved American brand to customers across Europe. As President and CEO of Michigan Ladder Company, he not only grew the business significantly but created meaningful employment opportunities for veterans, formerly incarcerated individuals, and people with disabilities.
At UTEC, that same commitment to doing things the right way shows up every day — in a collaborative culture and a customer Net Promoter Score that consistently tops 90%. Tom holds an MBA from the University of Michigan and a BA from Michigan State University, and he's proud to call southeast Michigan home..
Les Harris
Vice President of Sales
Les Harris is the Director of Sales of Advanced Technology for UTEC. Les has 25+ years of helping clients adopt technologies to improve their business and life experiences. He believes in finding innovative solutions that take advantage of today's technology. Les currently lives in Rochester Hills, Michigan, is married, and has three children.
Dale Vanderford
Chief Information Officer
Dale Vanderford serves as Chief Information Officer at UTEC, where he leads the strategy and operations of IT and Audio/Visual services. With more than 25 years of experience, Dale specializes in bridging business needs with practical technology solutions that help organizations scale and operate more efficiently.
He has held senior leadership roles with organizations including La-Z-Boy, Plante Moran, and Washtenaw County, guiding teams through infrastructure modernization, system selection, and complex operational initiatives. Today, he partners primarily with manufacturing, engineering, and professional service firms to align technology with business strategy and drive measurable results.
Known as a hands-on problem solver and strong partner, Dale works closely with clients to simplify complex challenges and deliver solutions that make a real impact.
Outside of work, Dale is active in the boating community and served as Commodore of the Inter-lake Yachting Association in 2024. He lives with his wife, Teressa, and their two dachshunds, Moose and Bailey.
Tour Our Office!
Our Ann Arbor office gives you an inside look at where the UTEC team delivers the service and support we’re known for. As you walk through, you’ll see our commitment to innovation and client care in action. The space is designed to foster collaboration, with open workstations and modern tech setups that keep our teams connected and efficient. We’ve built every area with intention, from the meeting spaces where strategy takes shape, to the service areas where our techs prep equipment and support clients hands-on, and even our built-in office putting range!