I am a long-time computer geek that started programming on a commodore VIC-20 in the 1980s when I was in elementary school, and I haven't taken my hands off the keyboard since! Currently, I work full time in the industry as the Vice President of Operations at Auto~Star Compusystems, a Medicine Hat based company that develops software for pharmacy, grocery and other retail stores across North America. 

In my role, I oversee the technical services department, product development, quality assurance, and internal networks. I'm also Auto-Star's PCI compliance officer, ensuring compliance with industry security standards in the area of credit card processing.  Lured by the chance to travel that Auto~Star gave me, I started my career in the IT industry right after graduating from MHC, and I still get that chance when I assist with Auto~Star's marketing division at trade shows and meet with potential customers.

Before my current role, I worked mostly in technical support and training, and dabbled in project management.  In addition I played a lead role in internal network design and implementation, particularly with our UNIX/Linux based systems, which I love and still run at home.  I have a diploma in Computer Systems Technology from Medicine Hat College, and have taken many industry certification and training programs, including Microsoft, IBM, and Cisco. I also have had the chance to work as an instructor at MHC for a variety of subjects including Linux, network security, cryptography and special topics. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, martial arts, and volunteering with the Knights of Columbus and Medicine Hat Little League.