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My mountaineering journey has been remarkable! Reaching the summits of some of the world's most famous peaks across various continents is a notable achievement. I am now scheduled for a 130-mile, two-week trek to Everest Base Camp in Nepal this September 2025, which stands at an elevation of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) above sea level. Below is a summary of my other significant mountain achievements to date:
- Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania, January 2017) – At 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), it is the tallest peak in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. The trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro is known for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical rainforests to alpine desert.
- Mount Elbrus (Russia, June 2018) – As the highest mountain in Europe (5,642 meters / 18,510 feet), Mount Elbrus is part of the Caucasus Range and is a popular peak for those looking to climb the Seven Summits, the highest mountains on each continent. It's a dormant volcano with a challenging ascent.
- Low's Peak, Mount Kinabalu (Malaysia, April 2019) – Standing at 4,095 meters (13,435 feet), Low's Peak is the highest point in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. The mountain is known for its unique biodiversity and challenging yet rewarding climb, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
These climbs represent a significant achievement in mountaineering, and each offered a unique experience and set of challenges.
I have a rich and committed athletic background. Achieving my first marathon in 2015 marked a major milestone, demonstrating my determination and stamina. Additionally, my years of playing ice hockey in both a forward and goaltender positions showcase my versatility and dedication to the game. Each position has equipped me with unique skills, from teamwork and offensive tactics as a forward to resilience and rapid decision-making as a goaltender.
My diverse athletic experiences have undoubtedly fostered a robust mindset centered on goal-setting, discipline, and perseverance—qualities that extend into various areas of my life.
Moreover, my commitment to philanthropy alongside athletics is truly admirable. My efforts reflect a profound sense of duty to give back to communities and assist those in need, all while challenging myself physically through sports.
Philanthropic Initiatives:
1. Sponsoring a Child in Peru with World Vision:
For several years while my own children were young. My commitment to also sponsoring a child through World Vision reflects a deep sense of responsibility toward improving the lives of children in developing countries. By providing access to education, healthcare, and other essential services, your sponsorship has had a lasting effect on the child and their community. This support highlights my belief in sustainable change and empowerment.
2. Board Member at East York Meals on Wheels (3 Years):
Having served on the Board of East York Meals on Wheels was a significant contribution to supporting those in need. Meals on Wheels plays a critical role in helping the elderly and those with mobility challenges access nutritious meals. My involvement in guiding the organization's efforts and ensuring its success reflects my leadership and dedication to helping others in our community.
3. Volunteering at the Scott Mission (20 Years):
My long-term continuing commitment to volunteering at the Scott Mission is truly inspiring. By serving meals in the kitchen and helping the underhoused, I’ve directly supported individuals in need for two decades. My volunteer work speaks to my passion for addressing poverty and homelessness and my willingness to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
4. Board Member for the Muldrew Lakes Cottagers’ Association (4 Years):
In my role with the Muldrew Lakes Cottagers' Association, I’ve helped maintain the Association’s website and contributed to other activities, such as gathering donations for the annual silent auction. This position highlights my ability to balance community-oriented tasks with a more technical and organizational focus, ensuring the success and sustainability of the association's initiatives.
Work
My career in IT management is both diverse and impressive, with significant experience across multiple industries. Here's a more detailed breakdown of my professional background:
Current Role:
- IT Project Manager at SMTC (Contract Electronic Manufacturing Services) – I am currently responsible for overseeing several IT Projects of all aspects of IT, infrastructure, system implementation, and ensuring smooth operations across various technology platforms. My role is pivotal in ensuring that the organization’s IT projects align with its broader business objectives.
Professional Experience:
- 20+ Years in the IT Industry – With over two decades of experience, I've developed a broad range of skills in technology and management. I have expertise in system design, implementation, security, and optimization, as well as leadership in managing teams and IT strategy.
- IT Management Positions – Over the years, I've held several leadership roles, demonstrating my ability to manage complex IT projects, lead cross-functional teams, and drive innovation within IT departments.
Industry Experience:
- Banking – Experience in the banking sector exposed me to highly regulated environments, secure transactions, and enterprise-level IT infrastructure.
- Insurance – In the insurance industry, I've dealt with complex data systems, compliance issues, and the integration of various technologies to improve business operations.
- Telecommunications – Working in telecommunications give me insights into large-scale network infrastructure, service delivery, and customer-facing technology solutions.
- Manufacturing - My current work in manufacturing offers a different set of challenges, where IT infrastructure supports production systems, supply chain management, and product lifecycle management. In this sector, I oversee enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, which help streamline manufacturing operations, inventory management, and procurement. Data integration across departments such as sales, production, and logistics are key to improving operational efficiency. Security remains a top priority in manufacturing IT, especially as industrial control systems (ICS) and operational technology (OT) become more connected.
Skills and Expertise:
My extensive experience across multiple sectors means I have a solid understanding of the diverse IT needs in each industry, including regulatory compliance, data security, and the implementation of scalable IT solutions. In my current role, I am leveraging this experience to manage complex IT projects within the fast-paced and competitive manufacturing sector.
It’s clear that my leadership in IT project management is informed by a deep understanding of both the technical and strategic aspects of IT, as well as my ability to adapt to various business environments.
Life
My personal life and interests reflect a well-rounded and thoughtful individual with a mix of passions, routines, and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of what makes me unique:
Family Life:
- Father to Three Engaging Young Adults – My role as a father to three young adults speaks to my commitment to family and involvement in shaping their lives as they grow into their own.
Personal Interests:
- Vacuuming – I have a love for vacuuming, which may sound unique, but it often reflects a love for order and cleanliness, or perhaps a therapeutic routine that helps clear both physical and mental spaces.
- Fear of Snakes – Everyone has their phobias, and a fear of snakes is fairly common. It's a small but relatable part of my personality.
- Coffee – You like my coffee black, which suggests a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to life, valuing simplicity.
- Chocolate – My fondness for chocolate points to my enjoyment of life's little indulgences, and who doesn't enjoy a good sweet treat every now and then?
Hobbies & Beliefs:
- Chess as a Sport – Proficient in but enjoy losing in both Western Chess and Chinese Xiangqi. I believe that chess is a sport, which highlights my intellectual and strategic mindset. Chess requires critical thinking, patience, and discipline—qualities that can also reflect how I approach life and challenges.
- Gym Routine – Spending my mornings at the gym shows a strong commitment to health and fitness. It’s clear that I value physical well-being and make it a priority in my daily life.
Tech Habits:
- Don't wear a Watch, But Always on my Phone – While I don't wear a watch, I can't be away from my phone or computer. This suggests a preference for technology and staying connected.