Ben Payne
Solutions Architect
Ben Payne is the CEO of Blue Rock, where he leads a cutting-edge software development and system architecture company. Since founding the business in 2019, Ben has leveraged his expertise to drive innovation, spearhead projects, and provide strategic leadership. With a deep understanding of embedded systems and middleware, Ben has cultivated Blue Rock into a premier technology firm known for delivering impactful solutions.
Over his impressive career, Ben has built a reputation as an accomplished entrepreneur, engineer, and innovator. He co-founded JetHead Development, where he held roles ranging from VP of Engineering to COO, guiding the company through 15 years of growth. During this time, he expanded the organization from 10 to 85 employees, led the development of the RVU protocol now deployed in over 30 million DIRECTV Genie Mini devices, and demonstrated unparalleled skill in software architecture and business development. His passion for innovation extends to cryptocurrency, where he founded New School Mining and developed one of the most scalable GPU mining systems in the industry.
Ben holds a degree from the University of California, Riverside, where he laid the foundation for his career in technology. His educational background, combined with his hands-on experience, has fueled his ability to create groundbreaking solutions across various fields. Whether designing embedded systems, championing cryptocurrency technologies, or building industry standards, Ben exemplifies what it means to lead with vision and expertise.
Ron Madrid
Customer Success Partner
Ron’s role at Blue Rock is managing all phases of projects for our customers from ideation through final production. His project experience encompasses hardware and software development, integrated systems, R&D, and data analytics. Past projects include set-top-box software porting, software-defined radio development, Free Space Optical communications, IDIQ production management, hi-fi audio product development, mobile app development, and AI-assisted medical workflows. With a persistent focus on creating end-to-end solutions, Ron’s skillset helps to deliver projects on-time and within budget regardless of the industry.
Ron came to project management from the software development field. He started his career as a Linux Device Driver developer and later moved into a Software Test management role. His more than 12 years of experience in project management reaches across multiple industries, including both commercial and government entities.
Ron holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Electrical Engineering from Cal Poly Pomona (‘05) and a multi-disciplinary Masters of Engineering degree from San Diego State University (‘10) with an emphasis in digital communications and technology commercialization. He is PMP certified and also holds Professional Certificates in Project Management (‘13) and Software Engineering Management (‘12) from UCSD.
Ron Madrid is a seasoned Program and Project Manager with over 15 years of experience driving innovation and delivering results in both commercial and government sectors. Based in San Diego, California, Ron combines his strong technical foundation with leadership expertise to manage complex projects with precision and vision.
Tano Simonian
IT Strategist
Tano Simonian is an accomplished Director of Information Technology with over 20 years of experience in IT infrastructure, network management, and technology innovation. Based in Riverside, California, Tano combines a passion for cutting-edge solutions with a commitment to sustainable practices, helping organizations evolve and thrive in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
Since 2011, Tano leads the research and implementation of new technical initiatives while optimizing IT systems to align with green technology goals. His work has significantly enhanced operational efficiency, reduced administrative costs, and improved environmental sustainability.
Tano’s previous roles include managing advanced network systems at UCLA and UCR, where he specialized in Cisco and Alcatel networks, VMWare ESX Enterprise solutions, and EMC SANs. His experience also includes consulting for AGBU, where he guided technological strategies and improved productivity through innovative solutions.
Tano earned his Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of California, Riverside, equipping him with a unique perspective on technology’s impact on business strategy.
At Blue Rock, Tano’s expertise in IT and sustainability drives the organization’s commitment to excellence and innovation.
