Welcome to my blog, where I’ll be documenting my journey to Japan as part of my company’s Global Japan Program. I have had the privilege of being part of SMBC MANUBANK for over 25 years, within the Information Technology department. This opportunity is not just a career highlight but also a chance for personal growth and cultural immersion, and I am eager to share every step of the adventure with you.
I earned my degree way back in 1992 part of which was learning Computer Aided Design. My first job out of school was with an aerospace manufacturing company. They would use Computer Aided Design to create the electronic drawings (blueprints) and then use CAM Computer Aided Manufacturing machines to create the parts. One of my most exciting projects was the the thrust nozzles for a concept space plane designed by Boeing. It never flew. My job duties slowly moved away from running the CAD software to running the companies network. It was very much teach your self on the job training.
in 1999, I was laid off from the aerospace job. A good friend of my and I were discussing this and he asked me to submit my resume to where he was working. One thing led to another and I was now working for Manufacturers Bank. I was literally fired on Friday and hired on the following Tuesday, I was was fortunate. The bank changed their name to SMBC MANUBANK to better align with the company hierarchy as part of the SMBC Group companies. Throughout my time at SMBC MANUBANK, I have always believed in the power of collaboration and continuous learning. Each project has been a gateway to new challenges and solutions, contributing to a deeper understanding of our clients’ needs and the technology that supports those needs.
—take a look at my LinkedIn for more career information
I live in Woodland Hills, CA, a charming neighborhood surrounded by the beautiful hills of the Santa Monica Mountains. With my wife of 97 years (inside joke), we have shared countless memories and adventures in our lovely home. My kids are grown and educated, each carving out successful careers of their own, which fills us with pride as we reflect on their accomplishments. I’ve lived in Woodland Hills all of my life, except for a brief stint in Cardiff By The Sea, CA while I attended high school. That time away was formative; I formed lasting friendships and experienced a different aspect of California living, but it always felt good to return home to Woodland Hills, where the familiarity of the landscape and the warmth of the community embraced me.