Mike Paget | Explorer with an aptitude for technology

“Entomologist, archaeologist, artist, chef, double O agent, time traveler,” says Mike Paget, when asked what career paths he wanted to pursue as a child. Never did he imagine he would be in his current job as manager of Academic Technologies at the Cumming School of Medicine (CSM). “We create web applications and develop solutions for students, faculty and staff,” explains Mike. “The work we do improves the student experience, supports research and makes running the CSM programs more efficient.”

Working with technology wasn’t Mike’s first foray into the workforce. In a previous job as a cook at the River Café, Mike had the honour of feeding one of Hollywood’s most cherished actors. “At the River Café we had many special guests, but it was a walk-in from Samuel L. Jackson that sent shivers through the kitchen team – especially since he sat across from the kitchen and watched us cook the entire time!” Another moment of pride in Mike’s varied career path was working with children. “Teaching eight year olds how to sail at the Glenmore Reservoir was an incredible summer job!” 

However, Mike’s current job at the CSM gives him the most satisfaction. “To be successful in this role means lots of conversations about ideas every day with everybody; from staff in various positions, students across years, course leadership and the Undergraduate Medical Education management team,” says Mike. “It also means being part of the daily delivery of our products. We often learn our next steps from being part of the operational activities. I work with such a strong, diverse group, so once we identify an opportunity, it’s really cool to see how the team can tackle it.” 

In his spare time, Mike has taken on some technology projects of his own. “I’ve made a few toddler mobile games, like one which lets you DJ letters on a turntable.” The game, ABC Planet, is available in the Google Play store. Mike says the greatest achievement in his life has been his kids. “Whatever tiny credit I can take for my children - that's what I'm most proud of.” 

“Finding my way here to CSM has been a great experience,” says Mike. “I’m lucky to have the opportunity to work with the incredible staff, students and faculty.” 

Tidbits from Mike:

His favourite way to spend free time: “Epic three-hour make-believe sessions with my kids on weekends.” 

His favourite place on Foothills Campus: “I love the monster-sized snow mounds that form on the north side of Parkade 6 during winter.” 

His personal motto: “My family motto translates from the Latin to "Always Revenge", which hasn't served me terribly well. I've been leaning on one I learned from Dr. Sylvain Coderre: "There are two things you can always be: kind and diligent".” 

Where he would like to see CSM in 50 years: I'll jog to the hyperloop station, enjoying my gene-therapy CRISPR invigorated body. Once I arrive at my granddaughter's MD graduation ceremony downtown, I'll think fondly of the incredible role the CSM has had in implementing precision medicine across an international audience of medical professionals.