Our Team

“Technology will not replace great teachers, but technology in the hands of great teachers can be transformational.”

– George Couros

Nicole Bongard
Owner

Nicole’s first experience with Apple computers came over 25 years ago at Parsons School of Design in NYC, where she earned a BFA in Communication Design. Working in graphic design for many years enabled her to learn the ins and outs of Apple products, and everything Adobe.

After moving to Boston Nicole worked for Apple as a Mac Specialist. After yet another move to San Francisco's Union Square Apple store, she spent 4 years designing and implementing a robust custom training program specific to the Flagship's employee needs.

Nicole discovered that her passion is more inline with technology, and training customers to be more efficient and to feel empowered, not fearful, of technology. Customers who purchased Apple products and related gear were often uneasy taking it home, setting it up and getting everything to work together seamlessly. She left retail and launched Appleseed Consultants, providing premium quality, in-home support.

Sixteen years later, Nicole has relocated back to her roots on the East Coast, and growing Appleseed more than ever. The company has expanded to the Pittsburgh area, and as for the Bay Area, Max and I welcome Tyrone to our growing Team of consultants…

Max Killen
Contractor

Max and Nicole have maintained a close friendship for over 20 years since they worked together at the original Union Square Apple Store.

A certified Apple Repair Technician, Max brings to Appleseed over 17 years of experience working at Apple and exceptional customer service skills. With a background that includes training managers for AOL in Germany (in German!), working directly with Apple Executives, and leading training sessions for Apple Geniuses, he is an invaluable asset for Appleseed.

Max has a passion for empowering clients to navigate their Apple products and services. Sprinkled with a wonderful sense of humor, he embodies patience, integrity, honesty, and a commitment to excellence. As an active Apple Beta Tester, Max can send feedback to Apple engineers and ensure his clients receive first-hand, top-notch support and solutions tailored to their needs.

Tyrone Cullinen
Contractor

A lifelong Apple enthusiast with roots tracing back to his childhood, Tyrone brings 16 years of comprehensive experience from across multiple Bay Area Apple retail flagship stores. Throughout his tenure, he advanced through key roles—including Sales Expert, Onboarding and Training Specialist, and Genius Bar Technical Manager—cultivating deep expertise in technical support, cross-functional team leadership, and product mastery.

Driven by a passion for emerging technologies, Tyrone specializes in translating complex technical concepts into approachable, user-friendly solutions. Recognized for his meticulous attention to detail, exceptional patience, and dedication to elite client service, he excels at curating personalized technology recommendations tailored to each client's unique lifestyle. Whether troubleshooting intricate technical challenges or optimizing hardware configurations, Tyrone consistently delivers an elevated client experience.