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Charles Wesley

Job Title: Library Technology Officer
Company: Seattle Public Library
Industry: Public sector in higher ed, state, and local government
Mentor Since: Fall 2023
Will Mentor: Graduate Students
Mentor Type: Albers
Profile

Background

Job Description

As the Library Technology Officer, I lead the Information Technology team at the library. Key functions of my role includes strategy and policy, budgeting, operations, service design and delivery, and supporting the library's equity goals.

Company Description

Since 1891, we have grown from a single reading room in Pioneer Square to a world-class Library system with 27 locations. Providing access to a vast physical and digital collection, access to programming, and connections to community resources, the Library is plays a key role in our democracy.

Employment History

After graduation from Seattle University in 2004, I spent the first ten years of my career working in higher education primarily in an individual contributor role as a web developer. The past ten years, I moved into the leadership track leading technical teams in state and local government.

Education

I have a BA in English Literature from Seattle University in 2004 and an Executive Master in Public Administration from the University of Washington in 2022.

Mentoring Objectives & Scope

The best and most effective mentor/mentee relationships in my experience is a partnership. My own career path has included setting goals, adapting to big shifts such as the financial crisis and the pandemic, and working to become a well rounded and versatile leader. Your plan and strategy are key elements to career growth, and I would love to explore that with you.

When and where do you hold meetings with your students?

I can be flexible and would prefer a mix of in person and online meetings. Generally available in person downtown on select week days or in north King County or Snohomish County.

Additional Information

As an "elder millennial" I started my career in a time when once-in-a-generation events started to become more frequent. I have learned a lot about what it takes to build a career in uncertain times, and feel that for my generation and the ones to follow, we will all face challenges that will test us and our abilities to adapt and innovate.