Michael Mei - Candidate

I have been an NCF member since about 1994. My first active contribution to the NCF was through an equipment donation resulting from discussions with a former colleague and NCF board member, Chris Hawley. Chris put me in touch with the NCF executive director at the time, Chris Cope, and the rest as they say is history.

I grew up in Sault Ste. Marie (Ontario), acquired a Computer Engineering degree from the University of Waterloo (Ontario), and began my career at Newbridge (now Alcatel) locally in 1992. At Newbridge I developed software, traveled the world supporting products, and finally promoted and planned the development of products as a product line and business manager until late 2002. In 2003 I joined a new startup, SIPquest, where I managed its initial products and most of the relationship with its first large customer (3Com). I joined Mitel in late 2005 as a product manager. I acquired my Masters of Business Administration part-time from the University of Ottawa between 1996 and 1999.

What skills will you contribute to the NCF Board?

I understand both Internet technology and business issues. I am a resourceful problem solver through research and collaboration. Finally my experience as a product manager makes me think in terms of pragmatic things that can be done now that should result in improvements in the future.

What do you think are the most important functions of NCF for its members?

I think that the most important function the NCF should provide for its members is access to the Internet, including spam free email, for anyone who needs and/or wants it. I believe that the NCF is already meeting this need effectively, especially with the recent introduction of high speed service and the access assistance fund. I believe that another important NCF function includes facilitation of communication amongst community groups using easy to establish discussion groups.

Why do you want to be an NCF director?

I am generally motivated by being able to make a contribution in my areas of expertise while at the same time learning new things. I believe that I have knowledge, skills, and abilities that will allow me to continue to positively contribute to the NCF Board. At the same time I will continue to learn new things from other NCF board members. Finally I will feel good about being involved with something that directly benefits the local community.

Michael Mei