Technology and nature working together

From Innovation to Impact

My journey in technology spans 28+ years, from developing cutting-edge systems in Silicon Valley to running a local business in Western North Carolina. Now, I'm focused on applying this experience to projects that serve life and community.

John Repass

Professional Journey

Education

Physics Degree - UNC Asheville

Built an analytical foundation in problem-solving and systems thinking that continues to inform my approach to technology.

  • Scientific method
  • Complex systems analysis
  • Mathematical modeling
Early Career

Research Triangle Park

Developed broadband technology during the early days of high-speed internet, gaining deep experience in network infrastructure.

  • Broadband technology development
  • Network architecture
  • Infrastructure design
Silicon Valley Years

Multiple Technology Startups

Worked with innovative companies in Sunnyvale and San Francisco, contributing to breakthrough technologies across various domains.

  • Search technology development
  • Streaming media platforms
  • Music technology innovation
  • Online education systems
  • VoIP services
2008-2023

Silver Fox Computer Services

Founded and ran a technology services company in Western North Carolina for 16 years, serving local businesses and organizations.

  • Local business support
  • Community technology solutions
  • IT infrastructure management
Present

Values-Driven Technology

Applying 28+ years of technical expertise to projects that matter, focusing on ecological and social applications of technology.

  • Mission-aligned projects
  • Sustainable technology
  • Community collaboration

A Shift in Perspective

My technical journey began with a fascination for what's possible—the excitement of building new systems and pushing technological boundaries. Over the years, especially influenced by systems thinkers like Nate Hagens, I've come to see technology through a different lens.

I now understand that our technological choices have profound implications for ecological systems, social structures, and future generations. This awareness has shifted my focus from "what can we build?" to "what should we build?" and "how can technology serve life?"

Today, I'm less interested in technology for its own sake and more interested in how it can support regenerative agriculture, strengthen local communities, enable cooperative economics, and help us live within planetary boundaries.

Key Influences

  • Systems thinking and energy blindness (Nate Hagens)
  • Ecological economics and steady-state theory
  • Appropriate technology movement
  • Cooperative and solidarity economics
  • Regenerative agriculture principles
  • Community resilience frameworks

Where I Am Now

🏔️ Location

Based in Western North Carolina, I'm deeply connected to this region and its communities. I prefer virtual collaboration over extensive travel, focusing my energy on meaningful work rather than commutes.

🤝 Collaboration Style

I seek partnership rather than traditional consulting relationships. I'm interested in working with organizations that share my values and are committed to positive change.

🎯 Project Selection

I carefully choose projects based on their potential for positive impact, alignment with ecological principles, and contribution to community resilience and human flourishing.

💡 Technical Approach

I bring deep technical expertise while maintaining a critical perspective on technology's role. I advocate for human-scale, locally maintainable, open-source solutions.

Ready to Collaborate?

If you're working on projects that align technology with ecological and social values, I'd love to explore how we might work together.