Affiliated with:

Dr. Phillip Laplante

Dr. Phillip Laplante

Professor | Advisor | Author | Consultant

Software and systems engineer with deep experience in strategic technology applications and board level experience in a variety of domains.

What attracted you to data management or IT, and why did you choose to pursue this career?

My father was a data analyst/software engineer, and I grew up talking about computers, data, and technology from an early age. I was always fascinated with the rapid advancements and societal implications of these technologies.

What has been your greatest career accomplishment so far, and why has it been important to your career?

My book on Real-Time Systems Engineering, now in its 4th edition after 30 years has influenced thousands of practitioners and decision makers and has led me to many opportunities.

What are the two or three biggest challenges you face as a data management professional / CDO and how can we address them?

I think the challenges involve balancing so many different, but often conflicting factors such as customer needs, regulatory compliance, competitive advantage, finding and keeping staff, and so much more. These come on top of the usual challenges of keeping up with technology, vendor offerings, and more.

How do you see data management / the role of the CDO / IT changing in the next 2 – 3 years?

Security is going to be the number one focus of all data managers. More than ever.  Privacy will be just as important.

Do you have any planned next steps for your career?

In my 40 years in IT, I have had the opportunity to work with and eventually influence so many people. I love mentoring motivated individuals. Most recently I have been doing a fair bit of executive and C-level coaching which I find most satisfying.

What is the single best piece of advice you have received in your data management / IT career so far?  Why has it been so important to you?

Stay current. Continue to grow and study, in all areas, technical, spiritual, physical, and more. It’s amazing how my learnings in one discipline translate into another, completely different discipline.

Can you share something about yourself as a person that people wouldn’t know about you?

I’m a lifelong martial artist with blackbelts in multiple disciplines.

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