What are your technology specialties?
Working in an IT role has been a common thread in my previous jobs and freelance work for the past 25+ years. I really enjoy helping provide solutions for people, whether it is with web development or computer troubleshooting and repair.
What professional events do you participate in, or what skills or accomplishments have you attained, that sets you apart?
The Raymond Voter Information Project is a small non-profit I have been involved with as a volunteer for several years. I have been President of the Board of Directors since 2019. Our mission and goals are to provide voters with straightforward, objective information about warrant articles, candidates, and the basics of how to participate in elections in the Town of Raymond. We believe that a well-informed voter has the greatest freedom of choice. Our team of community volunteers produce an annual Voting Guide prior to voting in the town each March, which is printed and mailed to all town residents as well as posted on our website. Residents can read the guide and fill out a checklist and bring it with them to the polls. 2023 will see our 14th annual issue. I am currently the head administrator of the guide. I manage all aspects of production between the months of November through February. It is very satisfying to be able to contribute to this cause and to my local community. We even have an archive on our website of all the voting guides back to the beginning in 2010.
What was your first memory of using computers?
I remember having a computer class is junior high school where we learned about Basic, the big beige machines with the green text on the screens. I have been interested in electronics and video games since I was about 7 years old.
When you’re not found in front of a computer you are…?
Spending time with family, housekeeping, playing with my two cats, or trying to get in some fun seasonal activities like downhill mountain biking, paddle boarding, hiking, studying local foraged mushrooms, or going skiing. Getting out in nature adds a lot of value to my life, helps me to decompress from technical work and allows me to connect with friends and family.
What is a silly or interesting event that you’ve participated in previously, and what did you take away from the experience?
For several years I participated in running and ran many races. The most intense race I ever participated in was Reach the Beach (under the umbrella of Ragnar races). I trained for several months before. What I learned through that training is that most of the challenges are mental, not physical. It taught me about physical and mental endurance as well as confidence and feeling capable.
What would you do if you had an extra 5 hours every week?
Organize my house and exercise!
What are you most frequently heard listening to?
Music is so important in my life. I like to listen to a range of rock, alternative, indie, EDM, classic oldies, and 80’s music. I try to keep up with new interesting music as much as I can and love to attend concerts.