5 Minutes with John Filippelli

Where the Managing Editor is coming from

BY JIM HARRISON

Jim Harrison: So John, how long have you been in the magazine/website business?

John Filippelli: I started my career in 1999 doing freelancing, working on different periodicals and focusing on writing, such as poetry, plays and short stories, essays, etc. to hone my craft in my free time.

Jim: Where were you born and raised?

John: I was born in Bay Shore, NY, part of Islip Township on Long Island (almost right in the middle of the island). As a lifetime Long Islander I have really come to appreciate the diverse geographic landscape of the area. For instance, the South Shore is very flat while the north shore (where I live now) is extremely hilly, which almost gives it an upstate feel. Of course, the island is very, well, long (about 120 miles) but is only about 18 miles North to South. If you were to make that drive you would notice a gradual — but noticeable difference in the landscape (as well as the traffic!) as you reached Montauk. The payoff is you’ll also find some great seafood and wine there, as there are many vineyards and ports — plus being in such great proximity to New York City and even Connecticut by ferry is so convenient. I love it!

Jim: When you were in high school, what did you think you would be doing as a career?

John: I knew I would always have something to do with writing. I love hearing people’s stories and have always been a writer. For a while I considered psychology too, as I tend to have empathy for people. But writing always had me hooked. When I was about seven or eight I used to write stories and drag my mother around with me door to door to sell them for 25 cents each. Of course, times seemed safer then and I’d probably charge a bit more if I did that today! (Of course I don’t think my mother would join me for that.)

Jim: You decided to move into technology publishing when you came to Electronic Products 12 months ago, was that for the glamor and excitement of it all?

John: Ha! Yes it was! Seriously, for our field it takes a certain type of person to keep up with the everyday deadline demands, travel, etc. plus keeping up with the constant changes in technology — whether it be an advancement in passive components or the capabilities of the new iPhone. I guess that is something that even the layperson must do too to some degree, but as the experts in the industry, we carry the duty of being out front at all times. That is a challenge that I really enjoy. Every day is different!

Jim: What college/university did you attend and what was your focus there?

John: I attended Dowling College in Oakdale, NY, on Long Island. I started as an English major but still was interested enough in psychology that I decided after my first semester to switch so that I could major in social sciences (psychology, sociology, economics, etc.) and still pursue writing as a minor. Best of both worlds! ■