DATAFLEX COMPUTER SERVICES

I hung out in the computer room trying to learn more. Ron Parker also spent a lot of time in the computer room and was most helpful to me. Ron patiently answered my questions and helped debug my code when I was stuck. Working with Dr. Bob Farzanegan, Ron developed the first interactive computer-based version of "The Inter-Nation Simulation." When Ron graduated in 1976, he passed the project to me. I added interactive "what if" capabilities so students could project the consequences of their decisions before committing to them... Despite having a degree in political science, not computer science, I landed my first programming job at Application Computer Systems in Greenville SC in 1980. Working with MAI Basic Four minicomputers, I installed and supported the first computerized accounting, inventory and job costing systems for many businesses across the upstate. ACS expanded to Charlotte in 1986 and I hit the road for two years before moving to NC in 1988... IBM's PC arrived in 1982..