Technology and nature working together

Technology in Service of Life

I'm John Repass, a technologist in Western North Carolina exploring how intelligent systems can support ecological balance and human flourishing.

After 16 years running an IT business and decades in technology development, I'm interested in applying technical skills to work that matters—projects that contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.

What I Believe

🌍 Ecological Limits

Technology must work within planetary boundaries. We need solutions that enhance rather than degrade the natural systems we depend on.

🤲 Human Dignity

Everyone deserves access to a decent and fulfilling life. Technology should distribute benefits broadly, not concentrate power and wealth.

🔄 Systems Thinking

Influenced by thinkers like Nate Hagens, I believe we need to understand the deep connections between energy, economics, ecology, and human behavior.

🌱 Regenerative Approach

Rather than just "doing less harm," I'm interested in technology that actively contributes to healing and regeneration.

Where Technology Meets Values

I'm particularly interested in applying technical expertise to these areas where technology can serve ecological and social well-being.

🌱

Sustainable Food Systems

Technology supporting plant-based agriculture, local food networks, and regenerative farming practices

Examples:
  • Precision agriculture for smaller farms
  • Sensor networks for soil health
  • Distribution systems for local food
🤝

Cooperative Economics

Digital infrastructure for worker cooperatives, mutual aid networks, and community-owned resources

Examples:
  • Platform cooperatives
  • Resource sharing systems
  • Community decision-making tools
🌍

Ecological Monitoring

AI and sensor systems for understanding and protecting natural systems

Examples:
  • Biodiversity monitoring
  • Water quality sensing
  • Carbon cycle tracking
🔧

Appropriate Technology

Human-scale technology that serves communities without creating dependency or harm

Examples:
  • Open-source designs
  • Locally repairable systems
  • Energy-efficient solutions

What I Can Contribute

I have deep experience in artificial intelligence, embedded systems, and software development. This technical background, combined with 16 years of running a technology business in Western North Carolina, gives me practical knowledge of both cutting-edge possibilities and real-world constraints.

I'm not interested in traveling extensively or traditional consulting relationships. Instead, I'm looking for meaningful collaboration with organizations and projects that align with my values.

Technical Capabilities

  • AI/ML systems design and implementation
  • Embedded systems and IoT development
  • Linux-based custom solutions
  • Sensor networks and data processing
  • Edge computing architectures
  • Open-source software development

Interested in Collaboration?

I'm open to working with cooperatives, nonprofits, and mission-driven organizations on projects that use technology to create positive change. If you're working on something that resonates with these ideas, I'd love to hear from you.

Worker Cooperatives

Technology platforms and infrastructure for cooperative enterprises

Environmental Organizations

Monitoring, analysis, and decision-support systems for ecological work

Sustainable Agriculture

Precision farming and distribution systems for regenerative food production

Community Resilience

Local resource sharing and mutual aid coordination platforms

Let's Talk