Linux vs Windows in the Business World.
The new improved Windows Vista is here and Linux is now better than it has ever been. They both provide different benefits and price points, as well as notable switchover challenges. Which one is right for your company’s future? Or is it both? Come and find out from TechBiz Connection’s distinguished panel of experts.

MODERATOR:

Harvey Modlin | Senior IT Manager | Freedom Communications
Harvey Modlin has been selling and supporting computer systems and managing IT teams since the 1970's. He has experience on every type of computing platform from mainframes down to handheld computers. At the Orange County Register, Harvey he architected the production systems and databases that depend on hundreds of Windows, Linux, Apple, IBM and Sun servers all working cooperatively around the clock. Harvey’s education includes degrees in Computer Science, Engineering, and an MBA.

PANELISTS:

Larry Godec | SVP & CIO | First American Title Insurance Company
Mr. Godec oversees the strategic architecture, business process management, applications development, data center operations, infrastructure and core technologies that support the business at the First American Title Insurance Company. Larry has over 25 years of experience in all facets of information technology. Prior to First American, Larry held senior technology management positions at Nissan North America and Dr Pepper/Seven-up. Larry has a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics from Colorado State University. He has been involved in numerous professional and community organizations including the Society of Information Managers, Data Administration management association and Software AG International Users Group, where he served as president for 2 years.

Roman Pelikh | VP of Information Technology |  Mantra Films 
Roman started his career as Consultant at CSG Consulting Group by showing strong leadership qualifications, coupled with a hands-on management style moved to become a Director of Software Development for the CSG. Later on transitioned into the Director of Information Technology position at Mandalay Direct from which rose to a VP of Information Technology position at Mantra Films Inc. Roman is in his current position since 2001 and is responsible for entire IT operations and infrastructure including 24x7x365 operation of the datacenter, 300 seat contact center and CRM Development.

Mark McReynolds | Technology Specialist | Microsoft
Mark is a Technology Specialist with Microsoft focusing on Windows Server and Directory and Identity Management technologies. He has been with Microsoft for 6 years and has implemented Microsoft based solutions in some of the largest companies in Southern California. Prior to his current role, Mark spent 5 years in Microsoft Consulting Services, where he was Lead Architect for Infrastructure Security for the West Region. He has extensive experience doing infrastructure architecture, security remediation, and identity management projects.

Wilson Mattos | Sr. Technology Specialist | Novell
Mr. Mattos is focused on the adoption and deployment of Linux in corporate environments. He has 15 years of experience in the IT industry and has been a Linux advocate since 1995. Wilson’s previous roles, include Director of Systems Engineering for Paramount Pictures, where he was responsible for global infrastructure services and Senior Consultant for Novell Consulting Services, where he assisted Fortune 500 companies accelerate the deployment of IT infrastructure services. He holds a Masters of Science Degree in Technology Management from Pepperdine University.