“Michael has been a valuable resource for Breakthrough – contributing to dozens of successful projects. We welcome him back after a brief hiatus with open arms and great plans. We look forward to all his contributions this year and beyond.” - Darren Callahan, Project Director for Breakthrough Technologies
Tell us a little bit about your technical expertise and how you ended up with that skillset. I’ve been working in the Software Quality Assurance field since the late nineties. While my formal education is in music, I’ve had the opportunity to work for a string of amazing technology and media companies throughout the years. I stumbled into the QA field rather early in my career and have never looked back.
Which do you prefer, coffee or tea?
Coffee (or tea if Jennifer Freeman is making it!).
IPhone or Galaxy?
iPhone.
Favorite hobbies?
Building Legos with my 5 year old son Zach, a true master builder.
Do you have any pets?
Poppycat, named by my son.
Favorite Movie or TV Show, or Book?
Movie: Lost Highway, TV Show: Twin Peaks, Book: London Fields by Martin Amis.
Where does your allegiance lie? Apple, Microsoft, Google or [Other]?
While I’ve been using Apple products since ye olde days of the Mac Classic II, I generally stick to whatever works for the problem at hand. I remain an independent.
Where did you grow up?
After a peaceful childhood on the Northwest side of Chicago, I spent my teen years wandering the mean streets of Northbrook, IL.
If you could choose anyone, who would you pick as your mentor?
Arnold Schoenberg, the composer.
Describe your earliest computing or Internet memory.
I vividly remember buying the Commodore 64 game Exodus: Ultima III with my Dad at Waldenbooks for the exorbitant sum of $59.99. It seemed a fortune at the time, but was well worth the price of the floppy discs and entertainment contained within.
What software or websites couldn't you live without?
I’m not really sure…I need them all.
Star Wars or Star Trek? Answer VERY carefully...
Battlestar Galactica!
Who is your favorite artist/musician?
This changes on a daily basis, but for today it is post-80s Scott Walker.
What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
Sweetbreads are neither sweet, nor are they bread.
What was your first job?
Cashier at V&S Variety Store.