Art Hierl, Owner, founded A.H. Hierl Associates in 1992 after working in companies ranging from General Dynamics (aerospace) to Northeast Utilities (electric and gas utility) for 20 years. Art bought his first home computer in 1985, a Texas Instruments model 99 a, and was so intrigued by the potential of personal computers that he subsequently decided to develop software fulltime. He won first place among about 300 developers in a technical knowledge contest at a users’ conference. While his children consider this a nerdy programming award, Art believes it helps inspire confidence in his work. He holds an electrical engineering degree, along with advanced degrees in business and economics, including a Ph. D. in Finance. When not with clients or in front of his numerous computers, Art is playing tennis or jogging with one of his associates, Toby, the black lab.