Michael is an inventor, entrepreneur and veteran software and technology executive with experience in both Fortune 500 and startup companies. Prior to co-founding AKF Partners, Michael spent two years as the Chief Technology Officer of Quigo, a startup internet advertising company that was acquired by AOL in 2007.
Prior to Quigo, Michael served as Vice President, Engineering & Architecture for PayPal, Inc. an eBay company. Prior to joining PayPal, Michael spent seven years at General Electric helping to develop the company's technology strategy and processes. Michael served six years as a Captain and pilot in the US Army.
His education includes a BS in Computer Science from the United States Military Academy, an MBA from the Weatherhead School of Management, and an MS and PhD in Information Systems from Hawaii-Pacific University and Kennedy-Western University.
Michael is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Management at the Weatherhead School of Management. His research is on the attributes of products that enable viral growth. Michael's issued and pending patents include video content association and the automated aesthetic optimization of content, products, and advertising.
Michael is a certified Six-Sigma Master Black Belt, serves on the Board of Directors for ShareThis and is on the advisory boards at FameBall, JumpTap, and Distributed Energy Management.
