Ben Greiner
Ben created Forget Computers in 1998 (then known as Digital Logic) after being placed on hold with mediocre tech support one too many times. His unique understanding of the creative, technical, and production aspects of graphic design comes from previous work experience at a pre-press service bureau, commercial photography studio, and offset print shop, in addition to years of marketing and design work at ad agencies in Indiana and Chicago.
Christopher Cole
Christopher joined Forget Computers in April 2000. Previously he worked in a number of technology support positions, from basic Mac support to database administration and desktop publishing, for Northwestern University. Christopher has degrees in music theory/composition and uses great Apple software like Logic, GarageBand, and Finale to write and record his music. He also runs jazz label 251 Records in his spare time.
Christine Greiner
Christine provides administrative assistance to Forget Computers. She previously worked in the sales department, and as Rights Manager for Getty Images in Chicago.
Mike Shanholtz
Mike has been using Apple computers since the early 80’s, starting with an Apple IIc (before the Macintosh!). He started his career in pre-press as a production artist and has experience in everything from type-setting and film output to web production. He’s been a Macintosh support specialist for various design studios in the area during the past 6 years, and most recently spent 2 years as a Mac Genius at a local Apple store. He is an Apple Certified OS X Help Desk Technician, Apple Certified Desktop Technician, and an Apple Certified Portable Technician. Mike also has a private pilot’s license and truly loves helping people -- especially with their Macs!
Rick Smith
Rick has been a Mac fanatic since 1984. He owned the very first model with 128k of RAM and upgraded it himself when there wasn’t anyone else to call for help. He’s been a professional graphic designer for over 17 years, pioneering the Mac as a design tool every step of the way. A former design studio principal, he brings with him a specialized insight into creative applications, processes and support. Rick also teaches design and typography for Columbia College.
Paul Vargas
Paul has been a Mac consultant and Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer since 1999. His knowledge of creative professional applications, fonts, and workflow comes from his prepress background. He even has a beta copy of Illustrator version 0.5 on a 400k floppy disk! His other interests include playing guitar and piloting helicopters.
Kiran Weber
Kiran comes from a design and prepress background. (He's Swiss!) Before coming to Chicago he worked at the AIGA office in New York where he managed advocacy projects and initiatives. Then he saved a lot of Mac users from total breakdown while supervising the Mac Genius team at the Fifth Avenue Apple Store. He's an Apple Certified Help Desk Specialist, Desktop Technician, and Portable Technician. He can also say 'please restart your Mac' in German, Swiss and French.
Kris Youngsteadt
Kris has been working with Macs since the 80’s! He’s a former graphic designer with a strong background in pre-press production. His extensive knowledge of professional design applications, fonts, printers, scanners and monitors allows him to solve the unique problems of design offices quickly and efficiently. Kris is also a a color management expert and has participated in the annual GATF Color Management Conference for the past six years.