Technology Entrepreneur, Co-Founder of Doggy Logs
Where are you from and where do you work now?
“I’m from Mississauga, Ontario, and moved out west to study Mechanical Engineering at UBC. I am the co-founder of Doggy Logs, a small technology start-up that offers a smartphone compatible GPS tracking solution for dog walkers.”
Why did you choose to work in this field?
“While I was at UBC I took an entrepreneurship class, and our student project, Energy Aware, turned into a real business. Although I had never thought about entrepreneurship as a career path, it was such an exciting opportunity we had to give it a shot. Now I am hooked, and Doggy Logs is my second company. Since both have been technology start-ups, I’ve had the chance to apply my engineering background to the business world.”
What is your favourite thing about your job?
“Seeing something you have created develop from just an idea into a real product is so incredibly rewarding! There is also a lot of variety in running a business, and I am always learning something new. Being self-employed also gives you a lot of flexibility, and allows you to dedicate your time to something you feel passionately about.”
What are some of the challenges in your job?
“Where to even begin? Starting up a company has so many challenges and can be stressful at times… finding funding to get things off the ground is probably the hardest part. The lack of mentorship can also be a challenge. But the key is to be resourceful, and find people who can act as mentors and help steer you in the right direction.”
What do you like to do in your spare time?
“I love spending time outdoors. Snowboarding, surfing, hiking and hitting the beach with my dog are at the top of the list! And of course, spending time with the people I love – that’s what’s most important.”
Is there anything you wish someone had told you when you were in high school?
“I wish someone had told me not to worry so much. I never really knew exactly what I wanted to do as a career, and that would stress me out. But when the right opportunity comes along – be it a school project, a job opportunity, or a cool idea with a friend, you’ll start to realize what really interests you and things will build from there. Just be open minded and go with your gut, and things will work out!”
In a nutshell, why are engineering and science AWESOME?
“Engineering and science are awesome because they can open so many doors and opportunities for you! Plus you get to learn about really cool and interesting things and how to apply them to the real world.”
Tell us a joke.
“To the optimist, the glass is half-full. To the pessimist, the glass is half empty. To the engineer…. the glass is twice as big as it needs to be!”
