From the classrooms of SFU to the testing grounds for the 2010 Olympics, SFU alumni Josh Pablo has been given a unique opportunity to be a part of the upcoming Games. Josh graduated from SFU in 2007 with a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Applied Physics. He is now applying his knowledge as a Results System Tester for the Vancouver Organizing Committee (VANOC) for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. More specifically, Josh is responsible for testing the computer systems that will be used for Ski Jumping in Whistler for the Olympic Games.
“Right now, I’m focusing on becoming familiar with my role at VANOC. I am currently familiarizing myself with different applications, understanding the technical infrastructure, and developing test plans leading to several Sport Events taking place in the near future,” Josh explains. “My team and I will be busy trying to implement these systems so they operate perfectly during the Olympic Games.”
His initial involvement with VANOC was as a volunteer in the call centre answering questions from potential volunteers and screening applicants over the phone. Josh extended his volunteer capacity by joining the Technology Team, assisting them with numerous tech-related projects. This introduced him to numerous job opportunities with VANOC, and led him to his current position as a Results System Tester. In regards to his job Josh says, “This new role takes advantage of my technical background and problem-solving skills. I’ve been closely-involved with Olympic planning and work with an awesome team, so I’m very satisfied to be here.”
Josh attributes some of his success with VANOC to the skills he acquired while at SFU. “My work tends to involve spreadsheets and developing test situations. I feel that my physics laboratory classes provided me with the necessary experience in managing data, designing experiments, and using critical thinking skills effectively.”
While at SFU, Josh participated in four Co-op work terms. The first was as a science facilitator at Telus World of Science in Vancouver. The following three took place in Japan at Yamatake Corporation, an industrial firm, and taught him practical work experience in product development. Reflecting on his Co-op experience, Josh says, “I was directly involved in testing products to improve them and my experience brought me a sense of working in a modern engineering environment.” He goes on to say, “Co-op provided me with great work experience and knowledge which prepared me for work following graduation.”
Aside from work, Josh plans to take-part in various sporting events leading up to the 2010 Winter Games in a volunteer capacity. He’s also begun studying photography part-time at Langara College.
