Our Company
Smartacus Inc. is an Oregon-based company founded in 2004. We specialize in Apple Macintosh while also working with many integrated systems. We decipher technological issues ranging from installing small wireless networks to deploying self-healing cross-platform network infrastructures. We are experienced in networks consisting of more than 350 Apple Macintosh computers. We are always looking for new opportunities to share our knowledge and expertise with the individuals and businesses we serve.
Michael Lippold, principal
Most kids get teased in junior high. In an all-too-common scenario, Michael Lippold, the founder of Smartacus Inc., found himself at the mercy of his fellow students. They had given him a new name, Smartacus. Mr. Nunez, the teacher present in the classroom, didn't think this incident was funny. He quickly informed the students of the class that Michael was indeed intelligent, but that he needed a strong lesson in the ways of hard work. It took several years for this message to sink in; fortunately, this has been one of the most important lessons Michael was ever given.
After becoming one of the first ten engineers to receive an Apple Certified Systems Administrator certification and completing his Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer certification, Michael Lippold decided it was time to start a company specializing in Apple Macintosh. His early experience working for a local fortune 500, where he designed and implemented his first major Macintosh network, consisting of roughly 70 systems from the ground up rounded out his knowledge of today's most common computing platforms.
He chose to use the name Smartacus Inc. as a reminder that there are few things as rewarding as hard work. He values the idea of leadership though service.
Chris Frazee graduated from the University of Phoenix in 2006 with his BS in Computer Information Technology and has a strong background in Unix administration. In 1996, Chris began
work at a small start-up company called Hotmail as a support agent. As the company grew and their needs changed Chris implemented the company's Unix- and Windows-based monitoring systems. He
was also instrumental in transitioning to Windows after the Microsoft acquisition of Hotmail. From there, Chris went on to work under contract for Sony Electronics and Netli Corporation. His
attention to detail and care for others has become an inspiring addition to Smartacus. We are so pleased Chris has crossed to the Mac-side by becoming Apple Certified and making Portland, Oregon
his home.
Chris Frazee
Macs are known for their great artistic programs. Jenni Keller is our resident expert on these artistic programs and offers tutoring to all skill levels. Jenni has a BA
in Design and Fine Arts from the University of Oregon and her Masters in Digital Design and Digital Photography from Brooks Institute of Photography. While Jenni was in grad school, she worked
for Nikon and Canon. After school Jenni worked for Magnum Photography in New York on their digital archive project, and as a graphic designer for a firm in San Francisco.
Jenni is currently working full-time for the Portland Art Institute while operating her own photography studio. Jenni is a very patient teacher and her diverse experience
and education make her a wonderful tutor for those who are interested in the digital arts. She is a welcome addition to the Smartacus team.
Jenni Keller
