Ariston Technologies was founded by Dave Fornaro in 2008 to provide services in the areas of composites engineering, structural analysis and mechanical systems to clients in the marine, wind energy, automotive, architectural and aerospace industries.

Dave provides a substantial breadth and depth of skills to his clients, drawing upon over two decades of experience in various disciplines including: Finite Element Analysis of composite structures; Laminate engineering and scantling rule compliance; Parametric and free-form surface modeling of advanced aero/hydro shapes and structural elements; Design and engineering of lifting foils; and Engineering of mechanical and hydraulic systems.  Applications have included: Hull/deck/internal composite structures; Mast/rigging and rigid wing composite structures; Wind turbine composite structures; Keel, bulb, trim tab, daggerboard and rudder designs; Canting/lifting keels systems, lifting daggerboards and multiple rudder steering systems.

Prior to establishing Ariston Technologies, Dave worked for ten years at Farr Yacht Design applying his skills to many of the areas noted above.  Over the years, Dave has made valuable contributions to the design of four America's Cup challengers, six Volvo 70’s, five Volvo 60’s, seven Open 60’s, countless grand prix racing yachts and numerous cruising yachts.

Prior to working at Farr Yacht Design, Dave had a nine-year career in the automotive industry, working first for Ford Motor Company and later as a consultant.  His areas of specialty included structural engine component design, finite element analysis, solid modeling, testing and analysis of prototype engine components and production machining.

Dave holds a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania.

In addition to an active yacht design career, Dave also regularly competes on many high performance racing yachts including A-class and Tornado catamarans, Mumm 30 and Melges 24 one-designs and various larger handicap racers.