Mac expert David has been working with IvanExpert for a few years, and has helped many of our clients with issues ranging from server setups, to networking problems, to sync solutions, to replacements of dead Mac hard drives.

We were curious about how he got his extensive Apple knowledge, so we asked him a few questions about his background and his technical experience.

1. Where are you from originally?

Springfield, New Jersey.

2. How long have you lived in New York City?

Four years.

3. How did you get so much Mac experience?

I taught math at a private boarding school in VT, before moving to NYC in ’07. I became the default IT person there. When I started at the school in ’92, I had never owned a computer before. In college we just had big mainframes and punch cards and all that. In any case, in my first year as math teacher at the school I was given a Mac Classic to do work on and have fun. The headmaster was an “early adopter” of all things Mac. Over time, I dreamed in Tetris, then helped the school fundraise the transition to OS X with a G5 Tower running Panther server, and a lab of about 20 eMacs. Along the way I taught arts classes in object animation using iPhoto and iMovie, and songwriting using Garageband and Pro Tools.

4. What’s your favorite technical solution you’ve ever figured out?

I used to own a 1965 Dodge Van. It had a bad ignition switch, so I bought a push-button switch, mounted it on the dashboard and rewired the ignition to the dash. It was pretty cool. In the earlier days of wifi (when many users didn’t protect their routers with passwords), I built a cantenna to “acquire” wifi from my neighbors. It was directional!

5. Outside of IvanExpert work, what are three Mac-related activities that really matter in your life?

Recording music on the Mac has been a big part of my life for a long time. I mainly use Pro Tools and a sometimes Logic.  I also use my Mac to help manage my finances, although I often feel I could use more help than the Mac is capable of providing. Lastly, entertainment! Movies, music, podcasts and photos continue to command an ever-expanding presence on my hard drives…and in my life.

6. What’s your favorite thing about NYC?

Jeremy Lin, and/or, not having a car. I can get anywhere in the city by train, bus, or bicycle. Cycling over any of the East River bridges provides amazing views.  As to the subways, I usually arrange my schedule so that I am not on the subway for morning rush hour. There is something peaceful about a half-empty subway car, in a relative way. The system in NYC is so vast. I have a goal to take each line end to end. I also like Momofuku Noodle Bar.

7. What’s your favorite iPhone app?

Spotify!