So Cal Free Net.org

Matt Fanady, Network Development

Matt Fanady is a gear-head turned networking and computer enthusiast and has been wrenching on cars and building computers since was was 16. He is currently working on his own startup computer and network consulting company and spends his free time troubleshooting computers and exploring new ways to incorporate the latest communications technologies into everyday life. Matt was one of the early pioneers of community wireless networks. In 2002, he began building a grass-roots community wireless network in his own neighborhood of Ocean Beach, where he was able to bring his passion for tech together with his passion for wrenching. His efforts, along with those of others in San Diego, led to the inception of SocalFreenet.

Michael Mee, Project Management, R&D

Michael Mee is an information technology consultant and a founding member of Socalfreenet.org. He worked for eight years in the 1990s at Microsoft Corp as a Program Manager on a diverse group of products including Microsoft Access, Expedia, Pocket PC, MSN Communities and SQl Server. Michael had key roles in two software startup companies, including creating and managing the USA IT team for Dendrite from 1987-1990.

Most recently Michael’s interests have focused on wireless Internet and working to bridge the digital divide. He has led the deployment for Socalfreenet.org of several large networks that provide Internet service for 1,000 people per month in low-income areas of San Diego, lectured at IT conferences, and authored chapters in popular wireless books. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Michael led a team to Bay St Louis MS that successfully deployed to shelters in the region Internet connected computers and Internet-based phone systems.

Mr. Mee is originally from Australia and has worked on four continents in the IT industry. He holds a degree in Mathematics and Computer Science from the University of Technology Sydney, an Honours degree in Computer Science from Macquarie University, and a Masters in Space Studies from University of North Dakota

Andre Pilevsky, Organizational Development

André is currently the head of business and strategic development for Socalfreenet.org. He negotiates and designs business and community partnerships and revenue opportunities. He interfaces with the technical team, volunteers, customers, partners, and end users of the Socalfreenet networks.

André served as the Director of the Center for Cardiovascular Education (CCE), an organization that he founded in 1994. In 1995, he founded the educational HeartInfo Web site. As director of the CCE, André coordinated the advisory board’s physicians and medical professionals who developed materials on cardiovascular issues for educational, marketing, and advertising purposes. In addition, André directed HeartInfo and its operations, managing staff, recruiting sponsors, developing content, and designing and maintaining its computer databases and programs.

In 1999, Andre sold the CCE and HeartInfo.org continuing to work as Cardiovascular Director. In 2000, Andre founded Innovative Medical Resources, LLC (IMR). André consults with companies and entrepreneurs on strategic business development topics.

André has over 27 years experience in the computer industry. He founded his first company, Cyber-Tech, Inc., in 1984. As President of Cyber-Tech, Inc., Andre designed and implemented over 50 database management systems for several companies including AT&T. In 1992, Andre completed the sale of the IP and assets of Cyber-Tech, Inc. to AT&T. André earned his B.S. Degree in Neural Science from Brown University in 1985, and graduated from Stuyvesant High School in NY (1981). In high school and college, André won numerous prestigious science awards and scholarships, including the Westinghouse Science Award for original research “Human Cancer Detection Utilizing Corona Discharge Photography”.