Douglas Farrar

There was great interest by the college in our employment opportunities as (in 1969) this was the onset of the digital age and the beginnings of a very rewarding career for me.

I joined IBM Canada as a programmer analyst and advanced to senior roles in the marketing, project management and management areas. Some of my roles at IBM, and then later at other organizations such as CIBC, Hewlett-Packard and the public sector in Alberta and Ontario have included: Project Executive, Manager of a financial institution data centre, Director of IT, IT industry adviser and Chair of various IT steering committees.

I am currently responsible for the IT department at the Ontario Energy Board and the lead Manager in the rollout of our four-year IT Strategy. I have my PMP (Project Management Professional) certification from the Project Management Institute, which is also affiliated with Sheridan.

My advice to Sheridan students is to leverage the outstanding reputation of Sheridan, apply yourself to excel, continue with a lifetime Learning Development Plan and understand that the accumulation of all experiences provides a rewarding body of knowledge.

As a 40-year alumnus, I have continued to network with my classmates and enjoy the sharing of our unique bond. Last year I attended the Homecoming celebrations and the Big Picture Gala. Both events drew interest from other accomplished Sheridan alumni and were terrific examples of the ongoing work that the institution is doing to provide an exceptional learning experience for existing students.

Current Occupation: Manager of Information and Information Technology, Ontario Energy Board