Management Team

Our leadership team consists of seasoned professionals with extensive experience both in the staffing industry and in information technology. Our hands-on experience contributes to our domain expertise for the benefit of both clients and consultants.

Joseph Contino, President
Dennis Caparelli, Vice-President
Melanie Harer, Business Development Manager

Laura Tepper, Business Development Manager

Joseph Contino
President

As founder and President of Contech Systems, Joseph Contino leverages more than 25 years in the IT industry to deliver perfect-fit resources for clients. Joe uses his extensive technology and business background in overseeing sales, recruiting and operations for the company.

Previously, Joe specialized in high-level application analysis, design and software development. His career expanded into project management and, ultimately, business leadership. Joe’s extensive experience has enabled the company to evolve to a full-service firm providing contract staffing and direct placement as well as value-added training services.

Joe’s first-hand experience with many complex IT applications and technologies provides a clear understanding of clients’ IT recruitment challenges and helps ensure that the services Contech Systems provides are of the highest quality. Joe has an advanced certification in software development from the Programming Systems Institute in New York and is an active member in the National Association of Computer Consultant Businesses (NACCB).

Dennis Caparelli
Vice-President

Dennis manages many aspects of Contech Systems’ day-to-day operations and maintains a hands-on approach in recruiting, quality, and client services. He joined Contech Systems in 2003, applying his extensive technology and financial background to benefit clients and consultants.

Previously, Dennis served in an executive position with Prudential Financial, managing many major applications including: prudential.com; Accounts Payable; Accounts Receivable; Treasury Systems; Corporate Funds Transfer Systems; and HR Systems.

Dennis started his career with Metropolitan Life in New York in 1969, ultimately advancing to lead Met’s Field Automation program from 1986 to 1996. In that role, Dennis was responsible for the Hardware, Networking, and Software Development in 1,200 Branch offices.

Melanie Harer
Business Development Manager

Melanie Harer combines extensive sales and marketing experience with an information technology focus. A member of the leadership team, she manages key national accounts and is expanding the firm’s reach within Minnesota. Melanie’s background includes working with Fortune 100 accounts and the Financial, Healthcare, and Manufacturing vertical markets.

Melanie offers expertise in solution selling developed during a 15+ year sales career, primarily with technology training and IT services firms. Prior to joining Contech Systems, she specialized in national sales and service for firms such as AppDev Training, MindSharp and Wave Technologies International. She has a strong track record delivering increased efficiency and profitability to her clients. Melanie has a BA from Towson State University and attended St. Thomas University for her MBA coursework.

Laura Tepper
Business Development Manager

Laura Tepper joined Contech Systems in 2008, bringing extensive experience in account management, business development and recruiting. Charged with developing the firm’s Office Services division, Laura combines a proven entrepreneurial track record with strong customer service.

Before joining Contech Systems, Laura increased a start-up franchise business from one office to three branches at Express Personnel. Her staffing career also includes business development and management roles at Spherion, Independence Systems, and Focus Management (subsequently Hobart West). Earlier in her career, Laura served nearly 10 years in the health care industry.

A certified paralegal, Laura holds a B.A. from Washington University. She supports local educational institutions through student outreach programs, educating and assisting imminent graduates in their search for suitable employment.