The author, Thomas (Tom) Merle, since joining Design Continuum in 1998, has been engaged in project management, product development, and client relations for some of the company's key accounts. Prior to Design Continuum Tom worked at Eastman Kodak Company for 14 years in research and product development. He was involved in the development of technologies and products including military systems, advanced telescope systems, copiers, and consumer imaging and was extensively involved with the development of Kodak's Advanced Photo System. Tom has a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Clarkson University and he is a licensed Professional Engineer.

Tom and his wife and their two boys enjoy living in the New England area with access to the beaches of Maine, Cape Cod, and Rhode Island. "Plus the Italian food in the north end of Boston rules!" The boys are into hockey and Tom is a supportive hockey Dad.

During Tom's tenure at Kodak, the family had the opportunity to live in Paris when the boys were 10 months and 2 1/2 years old. With the family taking in many European sites and activities. Tom's other interests include cars (classic Chevy SS), camping, and music.