Last week we issued a welcome to new Director, Tricia Spayer; this week we welcome back to the Board W. C. Wiese, who previously spent four years on the Board as Treasurer. He was elected Director earlier in the year and took his seat at the 2010 Summit. Below is a brief Q&A to reintroduce him to members.
First of all, congratulations! Can you give us a thumbnail bio of your non-STC life?
For 38 years, I have worked for Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. I think I’ve got one of the best jobs in the world as communications manager for MEADS International, a unique joint venture between Lockheed Martin and MBDA companies in Italy and Germany. I manage a staff that provides external technical, employee, and media communications for a missile defense program that will one day replace the decades-old Patriot Missile System. The program is a closely watched model for international cooperation in defense.
How long have you been an STC member?
22 years; I joined in 1988.
What other positions have you held in STC, both in the communities and nationally (if applicable)?
- STC Treasurer (2005-2009). As treasurer, worked with three STC Executive Directors in four years, contributing to financial stability during the change process. Implemented the chapter treasurers’ discussion group to enhance mentorship and communication, supported infrastructure investment, created an annual analysis of chapter financial trends, and continuously sought to strengthen STC’s financial footing.
- President of the Orlando Chapter (2001-2002). Inherited a disheartened chapter and implemented a three-year milestone strategic plan that provided the foundation for four consecutive Chapter of Distinction Awards.
- Treasurer of Orlando Chapter (1996-2001)
- Associate Fellow (2004)
- STC Fellow (2010)
- Conference presentations at 13 annual conferences.
- Published in Tieline and Technical Communication; have served as a peer reviewer.
- Frequent judge in the Florida Technical Communications Competition.
What prompted you to run for office this time around?
To be honest, from my previous experience on the board, I have a good understanding of the financial challenges STC faces and the need to connect with a next generation of membership that will sustain STC into the future. I wanted to be part of the solution.
What do you feel you bring to the position?
Perspective.
What are your goals for your term in office?
The board continues to work exciting initiatives that represent STC at its best. Our work with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, while not very expensive, has opened a valuable dialog with the principal definer of the technical communication as a career.
I especially want to pursue beneficial partnerships with allied professional organizations to expand the range of benefits to STC members, and to keep STC at the forefront of the profession.
There is an opportunity to reach out to technical communication undergraduates and make a better case for their future in STC, and to increase training opportunities of interest to all members.
It is also exciting to be on the board now that STC has committed to implementing a professional certification program. Former director Steve Jong (2007-2010), in particular, found ways to overcome many obstacles in bringing an achievable proposal forward. It falls to those on the board now to bring it to life and see our members benefit in the marketplace.
Any final comments for readers?
This is a great time to be part of STC. The hardships of the past two years have given the board and members together a glimpse of a future without STC, and I see a great commitment by all parties to make sure that doesn’t happen. You should see stronger communities and more resources for members in the next few years as the efforts already underway bear fruit.