The Lifeguard's Transition to Mainframe Software Development

From the age of 12 to 23, my best gig was undoubtedly as a lifeguard. It wasn't just a job filled with salaries and work hours; it was a role that demanded constant vigilance and a deep understanding of safety and rescue techniques. Amidst my responsibilities, I honed skills that have perennially served me well: quick problem-solving, calmness in emergencies, and a profound sense of responsibility.

The Early Career

Before joining the army and the computer industry, I held a few jobs. At one point, I drove a delivery van and performed piece work. It was during my military service in the early 1970s that I gained exposure to computers. The army provided an environment where I learned without formal training. I picked up PL/I and explored computer logic, developing a foundation for my future career.

The Army Experience

The best jobs are the challenges. In the army, I had a mundane role, but I embraced it. I read manuals and self-taught PL/I, a language that would become invaluable. My friend introduced me to computer logic, and together, we started programming. Without the pressure of formal training, this was a genuine joy, akin to playing with a wonderful toy. During my free time, I read manuals and delved into the systems.

The Private Sector

After the army, I worked for two employers in the private sector, a US-owned company. Initially, I worked in Data Control, managing data traffic requests and reports. Once I got it organized, my role expanded, and I became more immersed in the systems. The best part of my job was when new equipment and protocols were introduced. From SNA to internet, from IBM/VM to UNIX, each piece of new technology brought with it its own set of challenges.

One of the most memorable challenges was setting up a disaster recovery (DR) site that was fully operational within two hours. This site, from the moment we arrived on site, required data to be restored from tape by someone with limited technical knowledge. Years later, this setup proved to be worthless. By 2023, the site faced access problems, and in October of that year, it could only be accessed through nearby areas. Another time, a road flood disrupted our operations. These experiences taught me the value of resilience and adaptability.

Education and Career

I am an orphan from Malaysia, born in 1961, and was raised by a poor widow with four children. Despite these challenges, I aimed to secure a professional job in mainframe software development. I received a scholarship to study Computer Science at the University of London, where I graduated in 1985. After graduation, I received an offer to work as a Software Developer for the world's largest software company in the USA, starting my career in the industry.

International Career

My career has been marked by diverse experiences across borders. I worked in the USA, Australia, Singapore, and Thailand. Throughout my career, I had the opportunity to travel to 30 countries for assignments and meetings, immersing myself in a myriad of cultures and business environments. By 2014, at the age of 53, I retired as a CEO, but my love for the industry remains. Upon retiring, I returned to Malaysia, living a life akin to an expatriate, always connected to the world of technology and innovation.

Reflecting on my journey, the skills I developed as a lifeguard—courage, precision, and an unwavering sense of duty—have been instrumental in my success in the tech industry. This experience serves as a testament to the importance of continuously challenging oneself and embracing difficulties as opportunities for growth.