About us

It All Started with a Vision for Better Technology Consulting

Applied Open Source, LLC was founded on a simple idea: small and mid-size organizations deserve the same level of technical expertise and architectural discipline as large enterprises, without the overhead and complexity. From the beginning, the focus has been on practical solutions built with open, well-understood technologies. Over the years, Applied Open Source has delivered projects across software development, web and mobile applications, CRM and ERP implementations, infrastructure, and security. Each engagement has reinforced a core principle: technology should serve clear business outcomes, not the other way around.

From Open Source to Applied AI

As the technology landscape evolved from traditional on-prem systems to cloud, open source, and now AI-driven solutions, Applied Open Source evolved with it. Today, the firm specializes in combining modern AI capabilities with robust open-source platforms to create solutions that are both powerful and maintainable. Applied Open Source brings together:
  • 30+ years of experience in software engineering, architecture, and systems design
  • Hands-on work with regulated and compliance-sensitive environments
  • Deep familiarity with open-source stacks, cloud infrastructure, and integration patterns
  • A pragmatic approach to AI that emphasizes measurable business value over hype
The mission is clear: make practical AI accessible to small and mid-size organizations by leveraging a disciplined engineering mindset and the best of open-source and cloud technologies.

How Applied Open Source Works

Every engagement starts with listening. Applied Open Source takes the time to understand existing systems, processes, constraints, and goals before proposing a path forward. From there, work is structured around:
  • Clear outcomes: Statements of work with defined objectives, scope, and success criteria.
  • Small, high-impact pilots: Initial projects designed to show value quickly and reduce risk.
  • Transparent architectures: Full visibility into designs, configurations, and code.
  • Knowledge transfer: Documentation and collaboration that empower internal teams to own solutions.
Clients can choose between one-time projects, pilot programs, or ongoing advisory and support, depending on their internal capacity and roadmap.

What Sets Applied Open Source Apart

  • Business-first mindset: AI and technology are evaluated based on their impact on revenue, cost, risk, and customer experience.
  • Open and flexible stack: Preference for open-source and interoperable components to avoid lock-in.
  • Hands-on engineering depth: Ability to work at the code, data, and infrastructure level—not just at the slideware level.
  • Long-term perspective: Focus on solutions that can be evolved and maintained as your organization and the AI ecosystem grow.
Whether the need is a new AI-powered solution, an upgrade to an existing system, or a roadmap for modernizing an entire stack, Applied Open Source is built to be a trusted partner for the next phase of your business evolution.

Meet our Founders

Carlos Fernandez

My passion is building technology that solves real business problems.

With more than 30 years of experience in software engineering, architecture, and technology leadership, I have designed and delivered cross-platform solutions for large enterprises, mid-sized organizations, and growing companies.

Before relocating to Florida in 2004, I owned and operated an information technology consulting firm serving clients throughout the New York metropolitan area. After moving to Florida, I worked as a Software Architect and helped design a rules engine and mortgage compliance platform that contributed to revenue growth from $5 million to $128 million in two years.

My background includes enterprise software development, cloud architecture, databases, systems integration, DevOps, artificial intelligence, and open-source technologies. I have completed training and certifications in CFR Part 11 validation, Oracle and Microsoft database technologies, Salesforce administration, and Scrum.

Today, I focus on helping organizations apply AI, automation, and custom software to reduce manual work, improve customer experiences, and create measurable business value.

I am also the proud father of four children, which has given me plenty of real-world experience in leadership, adaptability, and keeping complex systems running.

Don Whipple

I am a sales and operations leader with more than 20 years of experience building customer relationships, growing strategic accounts, and improving operational performance.

Throughout my career, I have held leadership roles including Enterprise Account Manager, Business Development Manager, and Senior Account Executive for technology companies and internet startups. My client experience has included organizations such as AT&T, Hewlett-Packard, Oracle, Intel, RealNetworks, International Data Group, and Travelport.

What I value most is earning trust, delivering on commitments, and helping clients achieve meaningful results. As co-founder and managing partner of Applied Open Source, I bring a direct, transparent approach to every engagement. I ask thoughtful questions, stay focused on the business objective, and work closely with clients to ensure the solution delivers real value.

Originally from New Jersey, I am known for my straightforward personality, curiosity, and commitment to doing what I say I will do.

Outside of work, I enjoy discovering great restaurants, watching movies, and spending time with family and friends, especially my partner, Michael, and our very spoiled dog, Lita.