How I arrived at my present job (academic and other influences):
I have a bachelors degree in Computer Science. During university, I did a 16 month internship at the IBM Toronto Lab doing product builds and testing and internal tools development, which led to a position after graduation. My career progression has been from product testing to product development to product technical and project team lead to my current management position.
How I organize my day: It isn't always organized! The work environment at IBM is very dynamic, but I try to prioritize my work and complete the most important items each day.
Amount of time spent working daily (at home and office): Usually 10 hours each day at the office. I don't usually spend time working at home other than on the weekends.
What I do to relieve stress: Vegging in front of the TV, relaxing with a book, working out at the gym.
My hero, mentor, or person I most admire and why: A manager I had a few years ago at IBM. To me, she exemplified the best qualities in a manager. Now that I am a manger myself, I find myself thinking how she would handle a situation and learning from that.
How a negative event changed my life in a positive way: Before I started my current position, there was another position I really, really wanted. After interviewing, I was told that I didn't get the job because I didn't have the necessary skills, which was very upsetting. A week later, I found a job posting for my current position. I got the management job that I have now, which I love. When I see people performing the other job, I realize that wouldn't have been happy with. If I hadn't been turned down on the first position, I wouldn't have found a job that I enjoy very much.
What values are the most important to me and what I value in others: I value honesty, integrity, and hard work.
What inspires, motivates, or gets me excited about my job on a daily basis: I find my job very interesting and stimulating. My work environment is very dynamic, fast-paced, and challenging. I love going to work each day, since I never know what problem will need to be solved or situation dealt with. It's never boring!
Survey filled out: March 2001
Last Modified:
Location: www.acm.org/crossroads/dayinlife/bios/lisa_barclay.html