About Me

I am an effective leader with acute attention to detail. With a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a robust background in Digital Electronics, I spend my days architecting and building complex systems. My work seamlessly transitions from designing schematics and laying out PCBs to writing iOS code that interfaces with the firmware I develop for the microcontrollers on the boards I design.

I am passionate about building businesses and assembling the right teams, which is essential for any venture’s success. I believe in hiring individuals who are smarter than myself, prioritizing moral character and work ethic over experience. Those with strong character and work ethic can always acquire the necessary experience. As I often say, “Your parents were supposed to teach you the former.”

Throughout my career, I have successfully founded and developed businesses, leveraging my entrepreneurial instincts and strong management skills. For instance, I managed a global team of technical representatives at Rational Software, ensuring effective collaboration with our customers. Additionally, as the CEO of a winery and crush facility, I navigated the complexities of the business world, demonstrating my ability to lead and adapt. My management approach focuses on fostering a culture of trust, mentorship, and continuous learning, as I believe a supportive team environment drives innovation and success.

I am an avid follower of Steven Covey and practice many of his principles, particularly the “big rock” analogy for time management and priority setting, which is integral to my personal and professional life.

Moreover, I am a dedicated Trekkie, a lover of science and technology, a devoted dog owner, and a private pilot.

 

Individuals I Admire (Top 5)

The famous saying, “Show me who your friends are, and I will tell you who you are,” resonates deeply with me. Although I do not personally know the individuals I admire, their achievements greatly inspire me. I would adapt the quote to, “Show me who you admire, and I will tell you who you are.” I believe that you can learn the most about me by reviewing the list of individuals I hold in high regard, as shown below.

Carl Sagan

Renowned astronomer, astrophysicist, and science communicator. His perspective on science and cosmology, as well as his predictions of fear about where our society might end up, have deeply influenced me. I especially loved his series “Cosmos” when I was a kid and cherished both the “Cosmos” book and “The Demon-Haunted World.”

Alan Turing

Father of theoretical computer science and artificial intelligence, whose work laid the foundation for modern computing. The Turing Guild, the education arm of Windy City Lab, is named in his honor, and the Alan One computer we build in the ‘Build Your Own Computer’ course is also a nod to him.

Sam Altman

What Sam Altman is doing in the AI frontier is truly inspiring to me. I also feel like his heart is in the right place and wants to make AI accessible to everyone.

Margaret Hamilton

Pioneering software engineer who led the development of the on-board flight software for NASA’s Apollo missions.

Stephen Covey

Author of “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” his insights on personal development and leadership have been invaluable.

Neil deGrasse Tyson

Astrophysicist and science communicator, known for making complex scientific concepts accessible to the public.

Steve Wozniak

Co-founder of Apple Inc. and the creative genius behind the Apple I and II computers.

Albert Einstein

Theoretical physicist whose theory of relativity revolutionized our understanding of space, time, and energy.

Richard Feynman

Theoretical physicist celebrated for his work in quantum mechanics and his unique approach to teaching and problem-solving.

Leonard da Vinci

an Italian polymath of the Renaissance period, widely recognized for his contributions to art, science, and engineering

Grace Hopper

Computer scientist and United States Navy rear admiral. She was a pioneer of computer programming and developed the first compiler for a computer programming language.

Astronomer, physicist, and engineer who played a key role in the scientific revolution.