Tag: Professional Development
Kiko Liang: A Visionary Leader in Human Resources
I’m excited to share my professional biography, highlighting my journey in human resources and my passion for cultivating workplace excellence. From driving strategic HR initiatives to fostering inclusive cultures, I’m committed to aligning people with organizational success.
Lorin Ricker: A Leader in Software Development, Team Building and Servant Leadership; “Be Tough on Problems but Easy on People.”
Lorin Ricker: A Leader in Software Development, Team Building, and Servant Leadership
“Be tough on problems, but easy on people.”
Lorin Ricker is a seasoned software developer, team builder, and leader with over 45 years of experience in technology, engineering leadership, and mentorship. As a passionate advocate of servant leadership, Lorin’s career has been defined not just by the code he’s written, but by the people he’s inspired to become better technical creatives and leaders. From assembler to Ruby, from DEC PDP-11s to Linux systems, Lorin’s journey in the world of software development has been both extensive and impactful.
Currently, Lorin focuses on creating meaningful collaborations and helping organizations build resilient, empowered teams. Most recently, as Director of Software Engineering at the Western Growers Association, Lorin transformed a team of 20 software developers, pulling them out of isolated silos and building a culture of cross-training, knowledge sharing, and mutual support. His leadership introduced Agile practices, collaborative programming, and DevOps principles—transforming team members into highly capable software developers while fostering leadership for their future growth.
Lorin’s passion for mentorship and technical excellence is evident throughout his career. At RickerNet Enterprises, he conducted a popular Ruby programming bootcamp, providing aspiring developers a foundation for success. This effort expanded into a multi-week curriculum, covering Ruby, Rails, and agile methodologies for a major technical training company. Lorin thrives on empowering others, whether by teaching programming best practices, designing robust systems, or building leadership skills among emerging technical leaders.
Prior to these roles, Lorin served as a Senior Technical Consultant with The PARSEC Group, where he developed and marketed a Ruby Immersion bootcamp that focused on the Ruby programming language beyond websites and Rails. His work included course development, technical consulting, and hands-on software development for Linux, OpenVMS, and Oracle environments. Lorin’s contributions helped organizations adopt modern solutions, improve workflows, and achieve operational success.
As the Founder and Principal Developer at LockWorks LLC, Lorin led one of the earliest ASP-based SaaS solutions for law enforcement agencies, delivering Lock&Track Jail/Prison Management Systems to government organizations nationwide. Over 20 years, Lorin pioneered innovative approaches to technology deployment, establishing a foundation for today’s cloud-based systems while driving national adoption of mission-critical tools.
A lifelong learner and deeply interdisciplinary thinker, Lorin’s educational background reflects his love for both technology and the arts. He earned a BS in Interdisciplinary Engineering from Purdue University, combining studies in acoustics, music, computer science, and engineering. He later earned an MA in Music Composition from the University of Portland, specializing in electronic music techniques—an innovative intersection of engineering and creativity that continues to influence his work.
Lorin’s professional influence extends beyond technology; his volunteer work with Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) highlights his dedication to advocacy and civil action. As a volunteer coordinator, he provided critical mediation and support for National Guard and Armed Forces Reserve service members, demonstrating his values of service, collaboration, and fairness.
Lorin’s leadership is further supported by an impressive list of certifications, including Agile Development Practices, DevOps Foundations, and Git for Teams, underscoring his commitment to staying at the forefront of industry practices. His ability to combine technical expertise with effective team leadership makes him a rare asset in today’s dynamic business landscape.
With a professional philosophy of “Share it forward,” Lorin focuses on helping organizations solve complex technology problems, build thriving teams, and achieve long-term success. Whether guiding a software team to “Yes” or helping leaders embrace humility and growth, Lorin exemplifies the qualities of a servant leader who believes in the power of collaboration, learning, and human connection.
Summary
Character: Lorin’s integrity, humility, and servant leadership principles make him a trusted guide for technical teams and organizations, fostering collaboration and shared success.
Knowledge: With over 45 years of expertise in software development, Agile leadership, and team building, Lorin brings unmatched technical and managerial proficiency.
Strategic: Lorin excels at building systems, processes, and teams, transforming organizational challenges into opportunities for growth and excellence.
Communication: Lorin’s ability to teach, mentor, and inspire others ensures effective collaboration, knowledge sharing, and leadership development at all levels.
LinkedIn Share Message
I’m excited to share my professional journey—a 45-year adventure in software development, team building, and leadership. My passion has always been helping technical teams and leaders achieve success through collaboration, learning, and servant leadership. Here is my biography.
John Watts: Executive Leader in Data Analytics, Healthcare, and Technology
John Watts is a dynamic executive with a proven track record of leveraging his extensive expertise in data analytics, business intelligence, and healthcare analytics to drive organizational success. Known for his integrity, strategic mindset, and commitment to continuous professional development, John excels at transforming complex data into actionable insights that enhance decision-making and operational efficiency. With proficiency in tools like SQL, Tableau, and Power BI, he has consistently delivered innovative solutions that optimize business processes and foster strong customer engagement. As a leader, John is recognized for his ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring clarity and alignment across teams to achieve shared goals.
Dr. Barrett Matthews: Executive Leader, Entrepreneur, and International Speaker
Dr. Barrett Matthews is a seasoned entrepreneur, media expert, and leadership coach with over 37 years of experience across various industries. Known for his unwavering commitment to character and integrity, he has dedicated much of his career to empowering others and creating lasting, positive change in both business and the community. Dr. Matthews brings deep knowledge of leadership development, media production, and strategic entrepreneurship, having worked with international organizations and served as an advisor to the royal throne in Ghana. With his strategic vision, he helps guide businesses and individuals toward sustainable growth, while his engaging communication style as a dynamic speaker and media producer allows him to connect with audiences and inspire action. His personal mission, “You’re Something Special because you are God’s Vessel,” drives his passion for helping others realize their potential and create impactful legacies.
Karen Prewitt: Accomplished Mathematics Educator and Expert in Curriculum Development
Karen Prewitt is a highly accomplished mathematics educator with over 19 years of experience in curriculum development, instructional leadership, and professional development. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to student success and educational equity, earning recognition such as Teacher of the Year and Master Teacher. With extensive expertise in mathematics, she has developed and implemented innovative curricula aligned with state and national standards, while integrating technology to enhance the learning experience. Known for her strategic vision, Karen has led numerous initiatives to improve teaching practices and student outcomes, including facilitating professional development for educators and mentoring colleagues. Her ability to communicate clearly and foster collaboration has made her a key figure in transforming educational environments and empowering both students and educators.
Richard M. Brooks: Transformational Leader in Corporate Governance and Strategic Growth
Richard M. Brooks is a seasoned executive with over five decades of leadership experience in the hospitality and corporate sectors. Renowned for his expertise in corporate governance, strategic planning, and operational excellence, Richard has successfully directed fiscal operations for multi-million-dollar business units and spearheaded transformative initiatives that drive growth and profitability. A champion of customer service excellence, he has developed award-winning programs that elevate brand performance and enhance stakeholder value. Guided by his personal mission statement, “You are never wrong to do the right thing,” Richard combines ethical leadership with a relentless drive to innovate, making him an invaluable asset to organizations seeking visionary board leadership.
Danielle Diffenbaugh: Experienced Healthcare Leader and Quality Improvement Advocate
Danielle Diffenbaugh is a dedicated healthcare leader with over 30 years of experience in quality improvement, trauma care, and patient safety. Known for her strategic vision and collaborative leadership, Danielle has spearheaded initiatives that have reduced hospital mortality rates and enhanced aftercare quality. A respected mentor and speaker, she has shared her expertise on family-centered care, diabetes management, and evidence-based practices at conferences and public forums. Beyond her professional achievements, Danielle’s commitment to service and innovation continues to drive her mission to improve healthcare systems and outcomes.
Kirk Michealson: Strategic Leader and Board Advisor with 45 Years of Excellence
Kirk Michealson is a seasoned executive with over 45 years of experience in leadership, strategic planning, and operational excellence across government and commercial sectors. Renowned for his integrity and mentorship, Kirk has made significant contributions through his expertise in Lean Six Sigma, project management, and analytical problem-solving. An accomplished communicator, he has delivered impactful lectures and presentations, authored a textbook chapter, and published articles in industry magazines. With international exposure spanning Europe, Asia, and North America, Kirk brings a global perspective to every challenge, leveraging his extensive experience to drive measurable results and foster collaboration.
Charlie Shephard: Strategic Leader and Continuous Process Improvement Champion
Charlie’s ability to balance strategic foresight with hands-on execution has consistently driven measurable improvements in organizational performance. His leadership philosophy emphasizes empowering team members, fostering innovation, and maintaining a relentless focus on customer satisfaction. Whether managing multimillion-dollar assets, designing training frameworks, or driving change management initiatives, Charlie combines analytical precision with a collaborative approach to achieve sustainable results. His commitment to excellence and his passion for leveraging technology to streamline operations continue to position him as a leader who not only meets but exceeds organizational objectives.
Sean Gallitz: Empowering Stories, Building Connections, and Amplifying Impact.
I am passionate about storytelling and strategic communications, and I’ve been fortunate to build a career that bridges media, public relations, and leadership. My journey has been shaped by a commitment to amplifying voices and driving impact through innovative strategies. Here is my biography.
Courtney Graham: Fostering Growth, Empowering Minds, and Inspiring Positive Change.
As a leader in higher education, I am dedicated to empowering academic success through strategic planning, inclusive practices, and data-driven decision-making. I am excited to share more about my journey, experiences, and vision for education. Here is my biography.
Military Leadership Principles in Business
Military leadership principles offer a powerful blueprint for success in the business world, blending mission-driven focus, adaptability, and decentralized decision-making to create cohesive and high-performing teams. A clear mission aligns efforts and keeps teams motivated, while the ability to adapt to changing circumstances fosters resilience and agility. Empowering individuals to make decisions not only enhances responsiveness but also builds trust and accountability. By cultivating a supportive, values-driven culture rooted in continuous development and integrity, businesses can thrive even in the face of challenges. These principles, honed through military experience, lay a strong foundation for lasting success in a dynamic corporate landscape.
Lacy Presnell: Bringing Experience, Integrity, and Strategic Vision to Every Challenge.
With over 45 years of professional experience in law and leadership, I’ve had the privilege of serving organizations and communities through strategic guidance and dedicated service. From my legal career to my board leadership roles, I remain committed to fostering positive change and driving success. Here is my biography.
The Role of Leadership in Financial Services
In the ever-evolving world of financial services, exceptional leadership goes beyond meeting metrics or ensuring compliance; it focuses on inspiring and empowering individuals to excel. Effective leaders recognize the importance of understanding their team members’ unique strengths, communication styles, and motivations to create an environment of trust and collaboration. By leading with authenticity and empathy, they guide teams through change with clarity and reassurance, fostering resilience and adaptability. Moreover, they invest in professional development, mentorship, and continuous learning to build not only current success but also the future leaders of the industry. Through trust, adaptability, and a commitment to shared growth, transformative leadership in financial services drives both personal and organizational excellence.
Deena Giordano Ullom, Esq: Empowering Purpose-Driven Leadership and Transformational Growth.
I’m excited to share my professional biography, detailing my journey as a business leader and attorney dedicated to empowering purpose-driven organizations. With over two decades of experience in law, HR, and organizational development, I work with leaders and companies to foster growth, resilience, and impact that transcends traditional metrics. Here is my biography.
Dan Russi: Transformational Executive with a Passion for Leadership, Innovation, and Operational Excellence.
After decades of experience leading in SaaS, enterprise IT, and global operations, I’m thrilled to share my professional biography. It captures my passion for mentoring, driving operational transformation, and creating meaningful impact across industries.