Dave has worked for SoftSource since 2020.
Seven Questions with Dave
When did you first start programming and with what language/computer and what did you like the most about this programming experience?
In 1978, I bought an Apple ][ with Integer BASIC which I upgraded to Applesoft BASIC (loaded from cassette). 6502 assembly! Becoming a beta for the Microsoft Z-80 Softcard opened the door to Z-80 assembly, CP/M, Fortran, and yes, COBOL in 1979, This truly was the wild west of computing.
Describe a project you’ve been involved with which you consider to be your greatest success so far. What made it so successful?
Building a telemetry solution that collected, transmitted, governed, ingested, and visualized PC usage data was a tremendous challenge. Privacy, security, and scale required constant attention to detail. This project stands out because of the people I worked with and how we each brought our expertise to create a great solution.
If computers and related technology didn’t exist, what do you think your career would be?
My career without tech would probably be a paramedic, a sous chef, or a caseworker for foster kids.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far in your career?
When working on a team, respect is earned. It is an asset to manage well so that it can grow. If things go well, you can give it away.
When it’s time to turn off the computer, what do you do instead?
Enjoy Oregon with my wife. Be available and encouraging to my kids and grandkids. Read nerdy books.
Anything else you think we would like to know about you?
I got my first C++ compiler (cfront 1.0) in the fall of 1985 and ran it on Microsoft/SCO Xenix.
Bacon, sausage, both, or neither?
Bacon-wrapped sausage. I am proud to be an honorary member of the Pork Consumer Association. People. Pig. Planet.