Mentor Profile

Bio

I live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area of Texas. I have been married nearly 38 years, have 8 children and 13 grandchildren.

I started my career in manufacturing in 1977 as a Manufacturing Engineer/NC Programmer. My work in IT within the manufacturing processes led to my becoming the IT Operations Manager and being responsible for converting an entirely IBM Mainframe location to a Mini-Computer / PC Client environment, including the transformation of all ERP/MRP business systems.

I went on a 4-year consulting sabbatical to assist a colleague in starting a consulting business and worked with mainly automotive clients on systems and implementing Quality Systems (like ISO9001). Additionally, we spent 2-years doing Y2K audits for companies to assess the business risk for their systems.

Returning to manufacturing, I led the Quality and IT organizations of a major mining and construction company. I also was responsible for the shutdown of one of the manufacturing facilities and selecting new suppliers for the products made at that location.

Upon the acquisition of that company, I was shifted to being only the IT Manager and was responsible for the local Data Center which supported all US locations. I worked internationally for Corporate IT for 2 years in charge of all Computing and Mobile Technology.

With travel becoming burdensome, I was asked to lead the local factory and distribution center to improve the Safety record of the facilities. Within 2 years, we implemented a Human Factors Safety program which reduced our injuries and lost-time accidents by 70%. The success of the implementation led to the Corporation implementing it worldwide with my leading the project from 2018-2021 when I retired. I continued on a part time basis through July of 2024 to support the company in this endeavor.

Today, I continue to do some consulting in Human Behavior/Factors.

In all my roles, managing and leading colleagues was the most satisfying aspect of the job. In today's world, employees don't get near the guidance and development needed as managers have grown in tactical responsibilities. I always tried to buck that trend and go out of my way to manage careers and not just processes.

For hobbies, I love acting in theater and have a YouTube channel on Music/Vinyl.

Prior Experience