Andrew Chan Chor-wing, assistant project manager with Advanced Card Systems, specialises in cryptography and uses his skills and knowledge to popularise smart-card technology and make people's lives easier. I am 30 years old and have been with my company for four years. I studied computer engineering at the University of Toronto in Canada, specialising in cryptography, which involves the security of ATM cards, computer passwords and electronic commerce. Secured smart cards are about using cryptography to secure sensitive information. Working for a company with a business focus on smart-card technology and doing the work related to my field of interest is a perfect fit. As a team leader in charge of the company's engineering projects relating to the security of smart-card operating systems, most of my time is spent working with developers to tailor a security system, testing systems to identify security vulnerabilities and programming errors, responding to technical inquiries of clients, and discussing new projects with customers and management of my company. I have five co-workers in my team and we constantly interact with each other to develop ideas and solve problems. Ensuring the smooth implementation of our smart card system requires much discussion in my team to find out which methods work and which don't. The cryptographic technology, which we developed, allows our customers to deploy a secure logon to computers, e-mails, websites and a diverse number of applications. Therefore, being able to explain to customers how everything ties together in a non-technical way is also important. And this requires a high level of interpersonal and communication skills. My job is quite desk-bound, except for the time I spend in training sessions and attending meetings with internal staff and customers. I work eight hours a day, and most of the time I sit in front of the computer working on projects. This job requires a high level of competency in information technology. Therefore my company provides me and my co-workers with frequent training, and encourages us to attend seminars and trade shows regularly to keep up-to-date with the latest developments in the industry. Customers will lose confidence in us if we lack knowledge on the subject matter. Keeping abreast of the latest developments in the industry is crucial. The information security field moves at a fast pace. Every day we hear of new viruses, hacks and vulnerability in all sorts of information systems. Banks and large corporations are increasingly moving towards using more secure, yet user-friendly information systems. Therefore, it is important to have the ability to grasp new information quickly by learning how to apply new technology in commercial areas. Developing products that meet the industry requirements and the needs of clients is the most challenging part of my job. Working in an international company that sells products to more than 80 countries, I sometimes need to travel abroad to provide training and support to customers. To be successful in the information technology industry you need to have a keen interest in system security and technological variations. This is a fast-evolving field, and there are always new things to learn. I read a lot of IT magazines and books. Having a lifelong learning drive is important. My interest in this field keeps me motivated and wanting to upgrade my knowledge all the time.
