Photo courtesy of Sarah Kerr

Michael trained as an Electronics Technician at Vancouver Vocational Institute in 1970. He says “We were the last class trained in tube technology . . . By the time I graduated, I was obsolete.”

After graduating, Michael started work as a “Central Office Maintenance Man” at BC Tel. He would have a 32 year career at BC Tel, now Telus. Then the company “made me an offer I couldn't refuse” and so retired from in 2003.

Michael had become interested in computers, first as a hobby and later as part of his work at Telus, building his first micro computer in 1978. “It could count to 16 by flashing four lights -- my wife was not impressed.”

Getting some formal training but mainly “picking up as I went along”, Michael saw his retirement as an opportunity to get more formal training on computer systems. And in 2005, he graduated with a diploma in Computer Science from North Island College in Comox, BC.

Not all Michael’s training has been technical. He has taken courses in subjects ranging from photography to accounting. He has been active in community with over 20 years in LIONS International and six years on the Creston Library Board of Directors.

When asked to sum up his career so far Michael said “It has been great. I spent 32 years at a job I loved; my wife and I raised two wonderful children; and have run a number of small businesses.” As for the future, “TIMR Web Services lets me use my experience and knowledge to help other people -- What could be better than that?”

I started my career in the printing industry, apprenticing in prepress as a platemaker. I had a passion for Macintosh computers so took a course on design and design applications. Through many strange twists, ended up as a compositor for a newspaper chain for over 10 years, designing advertising, page layout and puzzling together classified ads. Because of a strong knowledge of the software and hardware, I also did a lot of staff training and became the in-house tech support for the office. I wanted more of a challenge so I decided it was time for a change. I took the Computer Science Diploma Program at North Island College, where I also met Mike. After graduating, I did some consulting work as an IT technician before starting TIMR Web Services with Mike.

As it turns out, TIMR Web Services is the perfect match for my past experiences in design, technical and people skills. When not working, I can be found surfing the web, studying the latest in design techniques and trends.

As the Internet continues to advance and progress, so do we. Mike and I strive to be on the cutting edge of design and development, so we can pass these advancements on to our clients.