Based in central New Jersey, Ricci Melendez is a tech focused entrepreneur who leads companies such as SMDR Associates and IbuildI.T. At the latter company, he delivers home and office refurbishment solutions that integrate smart home features. Ricci Melendez builds out properties in ways that incorporate leading edge audio, security, Wi-Fi, home theater, and thermostat functions within a unified, simple-to-use platform. Mr. Melendez has also taken on a leadership role with Peace Rose Montessori, which he co-founded with his wife, the school director. His efforts included setting up a space that provides more than 120 preschool and elementary school age students with a fully technology-integrated learning experience. He has also helped manage financial and hiring aspects of the institution, and successfully marketed the school to the local community. Mr. Melendez began his career in the tech field in the 1990s as a desktop engineer and was responsible for developing and deploying integrated software and hardware systems. Accepting a position with Bloomberg, LP, in 1999, he managed the design of structured cable systems and guided network engineering applications across the Americas that provided online office connectivity. With SMDR Associates, Ricci Melendez works with clients spanning the globe to integrate next-generation corporate technology solutions.