IBM Champion Steve Wolk
Steve Wolk, Chief Technology Officer at PC Richard & Son, has been an IBM Champion since 2020, a title he considers one of the most meaningful in his professional journey. With a strong passion for IBM i, Steve describes the platform as securable, scalable, and incredibly reliable, calling it “the best-kept secret in enterprise computing.” His mission is to change that by advocating for its capabilities and driving awareness of its impact on modern business.
Steve thrives on face-to-face engagement, finding his energy in speaking at conferences and connecting with others through local user groups like LISUG and LUG. For him, advocacy is about building genuine community; spaces where technologists can share ideas, grow together, and support one another. His curiosity began with fixing broken electronics as a kid and continues to fuel his drive to improve systems and coach the next generation of tech leaders.
One of Steve’s proudest accomplishments is fostering a team culture rooted in collaboration, innovation, and mutual respect. He believes success is built on shared purpose and creating an environment where people feel empowered to share ideas, grow, and build amazing solutions. Outside of tech, his dream jobs: Disney Imagineer or Starship Captain, reflect his love for creative problem-solving and inspiring others. His advice to aspiring IBM Champions: share what you know, lift others up, and be a helpful voice in the community.
Lightning Round
- What would be your superpower and why?
The ability to slow down time - so I could finally catch up on my to-do list (and maybe binge a few more episodes of Strange New Worlds).
- Ice cream or cake?
Ice cream. Preferably Mickey-shaped.
- Cats or dogs?
Dogs. Loyal, energetic, and always ready to go on an adventure!
- Summer or winter?
Summer. I’m a big fan of sunshine and vacation mode.
- Morning or evening?
Definitely mornings. I’m up at 5am every day to hit the gym on the way to the office. It gives me the energy to get through a packed day and is usually the time when I do my most creative thinking.
- eBook or paper book?
eBooks – or audio books. I love to travel, so I’m always looking to lighten my load. Bonus points if the book is about leadership, tech, or Star Trek.
- TV shows or movies?
TV shows. Long-form storytelling for the win – especially anything with a sprinkle of optimism!
- A night out or a night in?
Both great! But I really do appreciate a night out with great friends, a good meal, and maybe a fun speakeasy!
- Cannonball into the pool or dip a toe in first?
Cannonball! Go big or go home.
- Go-to karaoke song?
I can’t sing to save my life, but if I could, it would be I Lived by One Republic. That song speaks my language, with a message of living life to the fullest, with no regrets for missing out. I love motivational quotes, and one of my favorites is from Lucille Ball who said, “I’d rather regret the things I’ve done than the things I haven’t done.”.
- Drive or fly?
Fly. I love travel, especially when the destination includes a new culture to explore and new foods to try - or a Disney Park. OK, so maybe teleportation wouldn’t be a bad superpower to have!
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