Chris Longston

Background

Job Description

I was responsible for aligning the technology vision with the overall organizational strategy and overseeing all aspects of technology, including implementation of strategic initiatives as well as operational support for the technical infrastructure, business systems and computing services for staff and the public.

Company Description

Seattle Public Library sees Seattle as a city where imagination and opportunity thrive. Their mission is to bring people, information and ideas together to enrich lives and build community. SPL has 27 branches across the city, including the iconic 11 story flagship in downtown Seattle.

Employment History

Chris spent 27 years at PACCAR in a variety of executive positions in the US and Europe. He was responsible for developing IT strategies to support business initiatives in sales, marketing, engineering, manufacturing, materials management, finance and after-market support. In 2013, Chris joined Altruist Partners to pursue his passion of working with non-profits to help them magnify the impact of their work. In 2018, he joined the Pacific Science Center in a role that brought together his background with both technology and nonprofits. Chris continued his focus on serving the community by joining the Seattle Public Library in 2020.

Education

MBA - Seattle University BS - Washington State University

Mentoring Objectives & Scope

I enjoy helping students leverage their Seattle U. degree and plan for their next career steps. Topics I've covered in past years include resume writing/reviews, interviewing, networking, job searches, setting up informational interviews, and tours of various facilities where I've worked. My style in informal and interactive. I expect students to bring their ideas of what they want to accomplish, be proactive in scheduling meetings, and be engaged in the discussion.

When and where do you hold meetings with your students?

Flexible - I work and live in Seattle

Additional Information

Since retiring, I have focused on providing pro-bono consulting to nonprofits and mentoring the next generation of leaders, as well as traveling in the US and abroad.