Meet the Team
What do a former jet pilot, kindergarten teacher, and DJ all have in common? They now work for one of the fastest growing technology consulting firms.
With a diversity of backgrounds, interests, and abilities, our team’s unifying traits are curiosity and perseverance. Through these characteristics, we are able to work under pressure, within budget, and on behalf of the most deserving, mission-focused clients in the world.
Senior Leadership
Dan Salazar
Founder and Director of Innovation
Eric Boone
Chief Executive Officer
Greg Bugbee
Chief Information Security OfficerGreg's focus is evaluating client's critical data, security, and business processes towards creating greater efficiency and sustainable organizational capacity. Recently, Greg has spearheaded efforts to deploy solutions that foster data sharing and collaboration between NGOs, foundations, and government entities. Greg's other interests include cycling, kayaking, and parenting his five cats and two Chihuahuas.
Derek Lemery
Chief Operating OfficerDerek holds a bachelor's degree in Computer Networking from Wentworth Institute of Technology, and has 10 years of experience in infrastructure administration and consulting. As Director of Operations, Derek ensures that all organizational technical operations run smoothly and efficiently. When not working, Derek still spends a fair amount of his time on computers, spends time with family and friends, and plays with his dog, Noah.
Robert Malt
Chief Client OfficerBob has a passion for client relationship management, VMware infrastructures, disaster recovery, strategic planning and enterprise networking. In his previous career, Bob was a corporate pilot flying a Citation Sovereign as a captain, a licensed aircraft mechanic for TWA, and a certified flight instructor. Outside his professional career, Bob enjoys family camping trips, hiking, woodworking and boating.
Management
Bob Laplante
Director of Client ServicesBob works primarily with non-profit entities and municipalities specializing in backup infrastructure, email services (Exchange, O365, Google Apps), and general technology infrastructure / design. In his free time, he enjoys bodybuilding, gaming of all varieties, and playing guitar.
Brendan O’Neill
Director of Professional ServicesBrendan has over 20 years of IT experience prior to his time at Novus, including 11 years as a director of IT for a K-12 school district. When he's not focused on using IT to help meet organizational goals, he serves on his town's Board of Education, enjoys spending time with his wife and kids, camping, and all things Disney.
Herbert Lierzer
Director of Application DevelopmentHerbert is a Software Developer with nearly two decades of experience, graduating from the University of Technology Graz, Austria with a BSc
Kelly Halligan
Client Success ManagerKelly has worked most of her professional IT career in municipalities and nonprofits collecting over 10 years of experience. Her love for being solution oriented and eager assists her in developing methods and strategies that improve quality of services. Outside of brainstorming ways to continuously improve Novus' processes, Kelly is enthusiastic for working out, redecorating, getting creative, and all things music.
Glen Nelson
Manager of Professional ServicesGlen has worked most of his professional IT career in higher education at Eastern Connecticut State University, where he also received a degree in Economics. Some of his interests are in art, photography, music, and spending time with friends and family.
Kevin Icart
Manager of Professional ServicesPrior to Novus, Kevin worked in IT for 4 ½ years at Coventry Public Schools. In his spare time, Kevin likes to go to the gym, hike, or spend time with his wife and their dog, Wilson.
Brandon Cosme
Manager of Professional ServicesBrandon is currently pursuing a degree in Computer Information Systems. He previously worked at Microsoft as a Service Advisor specializing in desktop support. In his free time, Brandon enjoys video games, exercising, and is an avid moviegoer. He also likes to keep up to date with the latest news on consumer tech.
Sales and Marketing
Carl Fazzina
Senior Sales ManagerCarl has an M.A. in Mass Communication, a B.A. in Communication, and 20 years of sales, development, and management experience. In his spare time, he enjoys playing table top and role playing games with friends and family.
Joe McGrattan
Strategic Partnership ManagerJoe has a B.S. in Marketing and over 20 years experience with business development and partner management in the area of technology consulting. He is a lifelong Connecticut resident who enjoys gardening, landscaping and travel in his spare time.
Brian Lalama
Sales Operations SpecialistBrian holds a B.A. in Professional Communications and years of experience in Customer Service, Sales, Account Management and Operations Coordination. Outside of work, Brian is a huge music nerd who enjoys the outdoors and spending time with his family.
Business and Operations
Melanie Harrison
Business Operations ManagerAs Melanie’s career path meandered from Environmental Scientist to IT project management, her love of technology, efficiency, and organization has remained unwavering. She is an avid cook and loves to travel, hike, and kayak.
Heather Petrone
Human Resources ManagerHeather graduated from UCONN with a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and a Master’s Degree in Human Resources Management. Her favorite thing is travel: researching, planning, going, and starting the process all over again. She also enjoys watching sports – mainly basketball, baseball, and football, both televised & live – from pro all the way down to her kids’ teams.
Laura Jakubczyk
Scheduling CoordinatorAs Novus' scheduling guru, Laura specializes in coordinating the schedules of Novus' remote support and managed services teams. In her spare time, she enjoys watching football and live music. Go Seahawks!!
Kevin Nott
Application DeveloperKevin specializes in full stack LAMP development and has been building websites for over 15 years. He is an avid board game enthusiast and considers a bicycle the best way to travel.
Natalie Icart
Finance Operations Specialist
Kamil Kluk
Accounting InternSecurity and Consulting Services
Greg Bugbee
Chief Information Security OfficerGreg's focus is evaluating client's critical data, security, and business processes towards creating greater efficiency and sustainable organizational capacity. Recently, Greg has spearheaded efforts to deploy solutions that foster data sharing and collaboration between NGOs, foundations, and government entities. Greg's other interests include cycling, kayaking, and parenting his five cats and two Chihuahuas.
Ben Mateus
Client Solutions ArchitectBen holds a degree in IT Web Development, and has a love for working on large projects and bringing them to completion. He also houses a love for tabletop games, building PCs, and hanging out with his wife and two cats.
Robert Goulart
Security Operations SpecialistBobby joins Novus from MA, where he provided technical support and worked on networking and security projects. In his free time, he enjoys playing a wide variety of games and baking.
Rocky Bragg
Security Architect
Jason Anderson
Security ArchitectJason is an experienced security, communications, and CISSP certified consultant with a specialization in the Microsoft and Microsoft cloud ecosystem. He brings over a decade of IT experience and over 8 years in the technology consulting space with a focus on small to enterprise size clients. Blending deep technical knowledge with security principles he drives to develop solutions that can meet both technical and organizational needs. Jason enjoys powerlifting, hiking, and gaming.
Darren Smith
Senior IT ConsultantDarren's career spans 21 years, beginning as a teacher, evolving into the role of Director of Digital Learning and Innovation within Colchester Public Schools, and finally becoming a senior consultant at Novus. In these pivotal roles, Darren has been instrumental in guiding the integration of technology across educational and nonprofit landscapes, emphasizing data-driven decision-making, innovative leadership, and the development of systems for continuous instructional improvement. Darren holds a Bachelor's degree in Management Information Systems from Central Connecticut State University, a Master's in Education, and a 6th year in Educational Administration from the University of Bridgeport. Darren enjoys playing golf, hiking, coaching, and volunteering.
Calvin Brown
Business AnalystCalvin has a M.A. in Public Policy and years of experience working in non-profits and state and local government. He has a passion for efficiency and analysis, and believes business drives technology – not the other way around. In his spare time, Calvin enjoys cooking, reading, or learning something new.
Data and Software Integration
Herbert Lierzer
Director of Application DevelopmentHerbert is a Software Developer with nearly two decades of experience, graduating from the University of Technology Graz, Austria with a BSc
Alex Cohen
AltruLink Brand Director/Data ArchitectAlex spent over 20 years with the largest retail grocery co-op in the US, honing his passion for process design, strategic planning, and data analysis. He holds a BS in Business Management from The University of Connecticut. Alex is instrumental in developing creative and effective data solutions for our clients. When he’s not at the office, Alex enjoys writing and recording music, strength training, and loves gaming with his sons.
Ken Fazzone
Application DeveloperKen has studied Computer Engineering at Middlesex, and resides in Meriden. When not at work, Ken can be found reading sci-fi novels, tinkering with electronics, and playing guitar.
Infrastructure and Projects
Jonathan Page
Systems Analyst - Infrastructure CoordinatorJon’s experience includes Windows server, networking, virtualization, and storage technology. He enjoys fixing cars, riding dirt bikes, gaming, and hanging out with friends.
Jonathan Law
Systems AnalystJon specializes in hardware repairs and replacements, but is always trying to broaden his knowledge of different topics. In his free time, Jon enjoys PC gaming, board games, and hiking.
Robert Meany
Technical Escalation AnalystRob joins Novus with 17 years of experience in IT, specifically for K-12 schools districts. For fun, he enjoys taking his car up to Lime Rock Park, spending time with his wife and dog, and gaming.
Matt Ayotte
Systems AnalystMatt graduated from Springfield Technical Community College with an A.S. in IT Security. He enjoys working with M365 and Azure environments. Outside of work, he enjoys going to concerts, playing baseball, and spending time with his wife and son.
Ryan Delmastro
Systems AnalystRyan works primarily with school districts, municipalities, and nonprofits. He specializes in strategic planning, budget management, and general technology/networking design. Ryan enjoys mountain biking, making music, and spending time with family.
Corey Hogan
Systems AnalystCorey brings to Novus experience in networking, virtualization, and infrastructure. He enjoys woodworking and graphic design.
Steve Barlow
Support AnalystSteve holds degrees in IT Network Engineering and A/V Production, and has been working in the IT field for 5 years. He enjoys driving (from the quiet corner of Connecticut) and is a PC game and tech enthusiast.
Jon Paquin
Support SpecialistJon joined Novus with a big interest in software development. In his free time, he quite literally develops software, has a home-lab, and works on project cars. He is also a big fan of music and more specifically, karaoke.
Remote Support Team
Kelly Halligan
Client Success ManagerKelly has worked most of her professional IT career in municipalities and nonprofits collecting over 10 years of experience. Her love for being solution oriented and eager assists her in developing methods and strategies that improve quality of services. Outside of brainstorming ways to continuously improve Novus' processes, Kelly is enthusiastic for working out, redecorating, getting creative, and all things music.
Joey McGann
Remote Support DispatchJoey joins Novus with over 10 years of customer service experience. He specializes in dispatching for our remote support team where his canny ability to multitask is utilized. In his free time, he considers himself “a big ol’ gym rat” whose taste for music is eclectic, and who has a love for video games, anime, and sushi.
Josh Boisse
Support SpecialistJosh earned a degree from Quinebaug Valley Community College in Computer Networking, specializing in Desktop Support. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, playing video games, and spending time with family.
Kasia Milczarek
Support SpecialistKasia started her IT path while working as a service advisor for Microsoft more than 5 years ago. While with Microsoft, she received Certifications and continues to expand her knowledge. In her spare time, Kasia loves to spend time with her dog at the beach or hiking, as well as gaming.
Robert Garrant
Support SpecialistBert holds a degree in Computer Science with a specialization in Cyber Security along with a CompTIA Network and Security + Certification. He has 5+ years of experience working for a MSP in retail, and thoroughly enjoys helping and educating others. In his spare time, Bert finds joy in listening to audiobooks, fishing in his kayak, visiting family, and navigating hands on labs.
Central West Team
Brandon Cosme
Manager of Professional ServicesBrandon is currently pursuing a degree in Computer Information Systems. He previously worked at Microsoft as a Service Advisor specializing in desktop support. In his free time, Brandon enjoys video games, exercising, and is an avid moviegoer. He also likes to keep up to date with the latest news on consumer tech.
Alan MacKenzie
Client Solutions SpecialistAlan brings with him to Novus a background in IT Client Management for schools, hospitals, and LEGO! Outside of ensuring his client's needs are understood and plans are successfully executed, he also enjoys cooking, working on home projects, spending time with his fiancé, and riding his dirt bike.
Pete Carey
Support AnalystPete previously worked in Development/Fundraising at Hartford Stage Company, and studied Performing Arts Management at The University of Hartford. When not at work, Pete can be found at the gym, playing Warhammer 40k, and brewing beer.
Efrain Matos
Support AnalystEfrain has over 17 years of experience in desktop support and small business IT support. He has a B.S. in Management Information Systems from the University of Connecticut, and a M.S. in Computer Information Technology from Central Connecticut State University. Along with his passion for technology and gaming, he enjoys movies, TV shows, and spending time with friends and family.
Jesse Figueroa
Support SpecialistJesse previously worked in a technical role and brings with him 7 plus years of experience. He labels himself a "history buff" and is constantly seeking to learn something new, not just related to technology. He enjoys reading books, philosophy, podcasts, traveling, and gaming. Jesse is passionate for all things technology related and its place in our society.
Jacksonville Team
Brandon Cyr
Systems AnalystA Connecticut native, Brandon relocated to Jacksonville, FL in 2015 to open Novus' first location outside of Connecticut. Brandon is an avid gamer, Fantasy novel reader, and part-time DJ.
Roger Griffin
Technical Escalation AnalystRoger’s IT experience includes many years of desktop support and customer service roles and he is currently pursuing his degree in network administration. Outside of work, he enjoys PC gaming, cooking, and exercising.
Eastern Team
Kevin Icart
Manager of Professional ServicesPrior to Novus, Kevin worked in IT for 4 ½ years at Coventry Public Schools. In his spare time, Kevin likes to go to the gym, hike, or spend time with his wife and their dog, Wilson.
Chris Gurtowsky
Support Analyst
Cameron Larsen
Support AnalystCam has 2 years of Mechanical Engineering education from Roger Williams University. He worked with the Board of Education in Tolland for 3 years. Cam is a regular volunteer for his church and Feeding Children Everywhere. He also enjoys longboarding, snowboarding, wakeboarding, extreme hammocking, hiking, camping, fishing, piano, music production, and cooking.
Mark Sullivan
Support AnalystMark comes to Novus with an extensive background in both the transportation industry and hospitality management. Outside of work, he enjoys a wide array of activities such as photography, drone work, hiking, and visiting new restaurants and breweries.
Johnathan Quick
Support Specialist
Andrew Tingley
Support SpecialistAndrew has experience in supporting IT for manufacturing facilities, Towns, and Libraries. In his free time, you can find him hiking with dog, exploring local cities, or spending time with his partner.
William Bradley
Support Specialist ApprenticeNorthern Team
Mark Goldish
Systems Analyst Steve Barlow
Support AnalystSteve holds degrees in IT Network Engineering and A/V Production, and has been working in the IT field for 5 years. He enjoys driving (from the quiet corner of Connecticut) and is a PC game and tech enthusiast.
Colin Irujo
Support AnalystAfter two summers spent interning with Novus, Colin returned with an A.S. in Computer and IT Security from Springfield Technical Community College, and a B.S. in Cybersecurity from Utica University. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, playing, and watching sports, Formula1, gaming, and anything related to cars and racing.
Nick Starke
Support SpecialistNick joins Novus with 7 years of experience in the field of IT. During his down time, Nick is enthusiastic for arcade rhythm games, PC gaming, and strength training/powerlifting.
Oak Hill Team
Brendan O’Neill
Director of Professional ServicesBrendan has over 20 years of IT experience prior to his time at Novus, including 11 years as a director of IT for a K-12 school district. When he's not focused on using IT to help meet organizational goals, he serves on his town's Board of Education, enjoys spending time with his wife and kids, camping, and all things Disney.
Jason Gray
Support AnalystJason Gray assumed his role, at the time, of Support Specialist Apprentice in March 2020. Before that, he gained valuable experience through serving 13+ years of active duty military and remains in the Army Reserve. Jason is attending Liberty University and is pursuing a degree in Computer Information Systems.
Duane Pichay
Support SpecialistDuane joins Novus with IT experience in the Hospitality Management industry. In his free time he enjoys martial arts, dance, fitness, gaming, and spending time with family and friends.
William Medina
Support SpecialistWilliam brings his enjoyment of doing whatever it takes to solve the puzzle to Novus. Will's career path moved from mechanic to IT professional, and his appreciation of hard work, technology, and creating meaningful relationships with clients has remained tireless. Outside of learning something new, you bet you'll find William building his next race car or bodybuilding.
Brandon Legister
Support SpecialistBrandon previously worked at Apple and is currently studying cybersecurity. He enjoys traveling and being active.
Kyle Bishop
Support SpecialistKyle joins Novus with experience as a Field Service Support for Xerox and an IT vendor for a hospital's clients and services. He holds certifications in CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network +, and Microsoft MCP. In his free time, he enjoys dirt biking, playing Call of Duty, and small engine repair. His twin daughters mean the world to him!
South West Team
Ken Salcedo
Systems Analyst
Slava Shnitman
Support Analyst
Adam Gould
Support AnalystAdam began his career in IT as a student technician between classes at UCONN, and then worked for Windham Public Schools as a computer technician before coming over to Novus. He has a passion for problem-solving and building client relationships. Outside of work he enjoys spending time with his wife and son, cooking, and gaming.
Jacob Goldstein
Support SpecialistJacob graduated from the University of Arizona with a B.S. in Management Information Systems, and enjoys hiking with his dog, listening to music, and flying drones.
Joshua Lee
Support SpecialistJosh joined Novus with over a decade of experience in the service industry, and a passion for networking and cloud architecture. As a huge fan of the Knicks and Giants, he loves to watch sports, along with listening to music, going to the gym, and playing competitive PC shooters.
Wilton Team
Glen Nelson
Manager of Professional ServicesGlen has worked most of his professional IT career in higher education at Eastern Connecticut State University, where he also received a degree in Economics. Some of his interests are in art, photography, music, and spending time with friends and family.
Colin Hampe
Support AnalystColin brings with him experience in Manufacturing and Technical support of a large school district. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, cars, and virtual reality.
Zach Omichinski
Support Specialist
Sam Melendez
Support SpecialistSam has spent the last 10 years at a small non profit organization in Bridgeport providing affordable Microsoft authorized refurbished desktop and laptop computers to the public along with youth training courses. In his free time, Sam loves to spend time with family & friends. He's a sci-fi and Comic-Con geek, loves Broadway, camping and staying happy.
Ruben Espinal
Support SpecialistRuben is currently enrolled in Western Connecticut State University where he is completing his degree in Cybersecurity. He joins Novus with experience in technically supporting a school district. He enjoys reading, playing video games, and spending time with family.
