My original background was in advanced electronics and electronic countermeasures (during 7 years with the U.S. Navy) followed by 10 years with IBM. At IBM, I gradually switched from computer hardware to computer software. Upon leaving IBM after 10 years, I began my career as an independent freelancer, writing custom software for small businesses. BFGoodrich hired me to write a Production Scheduling system and a Lab system which led to them hiring me full-time. The next 15 years were with BFGoodrich, Geon, and PolyOne corporations; involved with computer systems, software development, systems analysis and design, networks, database design, operations support, and process control. During my corporate career, I also taught computer courses (12 years at night) for Ivy Tech college in the areas of Operating Systems, Programming, and Networking.