Nishant, a co-op student finishing his master’s in computer science from the University of Victoria. Having two years of Teaching Assistant experience and one year of volunteer experience, but new to the software development industry, He brings with him a sense of motivation and eagerness to learn new software and tackle some real-world problems in the field of software development. With his positive attitude, he has been able to understand the working culture of UDUTU, and help with the implementation of a new functionality to the already existing UDUTU Learning Management System which will help the company with their future endeavour’s in becoming a leading LMS provider in Online Learning Industry.

A graduate of the National Coaching Institute in Victoria, Canada, Richard started his career as a professional sailing coach working with provincial and national team athletes striving for national and international success. He was eventually recruited for and transitioned into, business and IT management applying his analysis and coaching skills to the natural gas and mobile telecom industries as an analyst and certified ITIL specialist. In 2001, Richard was asked to help West Marine, the world’s largest retailer in marine products, open a total of 13 stores in Canada. That success was followed by a Merchandise Category Management position in West Marine’s head office near Santa Cruz, California where he oversaw over $125MM in annual category sales. Each previous role identified the many benefits online learning would increasingly play in driving standards, processes, and performance. Richard’s particular expertise is in coaching organizations and individuals in the optimal use of web-based training solutions to drive positive change and results. “When combined with business practices that embrace it, online learning and training can drive the important standards and processes so many organizations struggle to achieve.”

Maria, with a degree in biochemistry from the University of Victoria, spent 3 years working as a lab technician/assistant administrator for the UVic-Genome BC Proteomics Centre. She decided to leave her science roots and venture into the IT industry in July of 2006 when she joined the Udutu team as office manager. Her background in science has made her a quick learner and has given her the organizational and problem solving skills needed to manage resources and projects. Within two years, Maria quickly moved into the VP of Operations role. She currently works directly to manage projects, staff, multimedia production resources, as well as assist in course development projects. She also plays a key role in marketing and sales. Maria also served multiple terms on the Board of Directors of VIATeC, an organization developed to promote and enhance the development of the local advanced technology industry.