My idea notebook is over 100 pages. There are too many to pursue, but that doesn’t stop me from thinking. I find that as I think of new ideas, it sparks ways of improving the businesses I work with already, as well as my ability to help others with their businesses.

I like to have a big impact wherever I go. Not for the acclaim, but to use my creativity in interconnected ways. For example: When working at McKim & Creed, I was in charge of technology. But technology now touches all aspects of a business – so I got involved in service development, marketing, sales, delivery, and support. I also streamlined management and the back-end processes that lead to outstanding client care. I often lead cross-functional teams to improve company-wide processes. That may be one reason that the Board of Directors asked me to start Blue Sahara and build upon some technology and know-how developed at McKim & Creed.

I have worked in numerous positions, but the latest ones have been the most exciting and fulfilling. I worked for McKim & Creed, a top engineering consultancy, started Blue Sahara Technologies to develop industry-changing water utility design and management software, led marketing for GolfSoftware.com, and now consult and train business owners for startup and mid-size businesses both locally and internationally. All of these positions have challenged me in new ways and have helped me learn and grow in different areas.

As a strategic advisor and consultant to small and mid-size businesses, I help entrepreneurs and technologists in build thriving companies. I start by establishing a firm foundation with vision and goals, then create the proper infrastructure for the company, build out the teams and strategic planning, writing business, marketing, and operations plans, connect entrepreneurs with a support network, and help them market and sell their products. Since I have been involved in all of these areas for my own companies, I bring experience from both successful and unsuccessful projects.

Business is about profit, but when you look deeper, it’s about connection. Connecting your capacity to invent and produce and deliver to someone else’s need. When you get that right, magic happens.

Go make some magic!