CIC SIG recently adopted an informal ‘meet the expert’ format, giving members the opportunity to learn from, and be inspired by, senior STC’ers who have built successful careers as independents.

On February 17, Thomas Quine met with the group to give his thoughts on “Making the transition from technical writing to instructional design and training”. He pointed out that professional technical writers already possess the analytical and communication skills needed to become successful instructional designers. The group also discussed various training and business development issues.

Thomas Quine has spent more than 20 years in instructional design and technical documentation, and has managed projects for AT&T Canada, Bell Canada, BellSouth, Ameritech, Cox Communications, Nortel, Infowave, and NCompass Labs. He teaches Analysis for Information Design at the University of British Columbia and is also developing an online course for Malaspina College, Project Management for Technical Writers. Thomas is currently coaching technical writers and trainers at Vancouver Coastal Health, the largest employer in the province.