Who he is: "I am someone who enjoys combining technology with helping people."
Q: What is a regular work day like for you?
A: My day typically includes cross-functional efforts to support moving technology solutions forward to better serve my FCSAmerica teammates and our hard-working customers.
Q: What do you love most about your career/major?
A: The opportunity to work with so many great people across a business or organization, and learn how each respective area serves its teammates and customers.
Q: When did you become inspired to partake in tech? What was your inspiration?
A: My Dad bought our first home computer when I was in Kindergarten. He taught me BASIC, and gave me an opportunity to compete in programming contents through local computer groups in the area. I enjoyed making programs that would celebrate the closest holiday, such as Halloween, and having fun by displaying our creations in the windows of our home for trick-or-treaters.
Q: What prepared you the best for your job/major today?
A: Within each role I have had the opportunity to contribute to, I have been lucky to be surrounded by people and experiences that taught me something new that I could carry forward into my next role. Each stage in life is a new opportunity to learn; Keep an eye open and a teachable spirit.
Q: What is the biggest obstacle you've been faced with, and how are/did you overcoming/overcome it?
A: One of my percieved challenges is that I do not currently have a college degree. I have however found that this is only important to a small segment of the IT community, and many are receptive to individuals who work to make a difference, and look to have fun doing it.
Q: What non-tech skill do you find most helpful/important that's for your career?
A: I absolutely believe that skills and development in working with people provide the most fulfilling career in IT. Any investment in this area will produce results that make the journey so much more enjoyable for yourself, and the people around you.
Q: Where do you see yourself in ten years?
A: The landscape of IT and the surrounding roles change so quickly, that it is challenging to say. I hope tha tin 10 years I can look back and name individuals that allowed me to in some way help them in their own journey.
Q: What's your favorite coding language?
A: Coding languages that provide a lower total cost of ownership.
Q: What are some of your interests outside tech?
A: Family, friends, learning and reading on self-development, business and technology topics, and being engaged and connected with good people in the community.
Q: What are your plans for future projects?
A: My plan for future projects are to continue to be involved with a variety of initiatives, learning as much as I can, making a difference where possible, and continuing to meet many of the great people in the community. Regardless of the actual projects themselves, if I have the opportunity to do these things, the projects will be fulfilling.
Q: What advice would you give a young person interested in tech now?
A: Never stop learning about technology, and find the technologies that align with your interests. For me, I enjoy technology that allows me to stay in direct contact with those I am serving. Equally important, focus on what it means to be an excellent team member, communicator, and positive influence. In hindsight, I wish I would have invested in these qualities sooner in my career; You will not regret focusing energies in these areas, and starting now.
