My Story

I was hooked on computers the day that an electrical engineering professor at Salford University demonstrated how to add two numbers using light bulbs and switches. During my engineering degree at Cambridge, I only had one term learning to program, which led me to immigrate to Canada and become part of the first cohort of Masters of Computer Science at UBC. Computers and the technology using them have changed ‘a bit’ since I graduated in 1969, but my fascination and involvement with technology hasn’t.

Over 50 years of diverse Canadian business consulting in a variety of fields and many industries cannot easily be summarized. Here are some highlights: Designing, programming, and marketing an accounting system for the construction industry; Consulting in computer and software system acquisitions at a major national firm; Spending 20 years explaining the technological advances at small software development companies so that they could get government grants. I’ve also led a successful business turnaround for an about-to-be-bankrupt business in the lighting industry; Helped over 100 professionals and managers, who’d lost their jobs, to re-focus their careers and find new employment; Kept the accounting records for many small businesses; Led and financed an HR software development project that ended up bankrupt (a humbling and great learning experience).

As part of my ongoing contribution to society, I’ve volunteered to help set up and run: Ethnic, professional, and alumnus organizations; Government and university committees – and even a recovery home for female alcoholics. I also continue to be a guest speaker, teacher, and mentor.

And now I am helping people take control of their job future while coping with the accelerating impact  of technology on the world of work  – helping both those starting out, and those contemplating a mid-career change. There is wisdom in the saying “good judgement comes from experience, and experience comes from bad judgement” – and, as my story shows, I have gained a lot of experience! This is my 14th career initiative.