Michael Webb

CIO/CTO at Syntech Networks

Can you please provide a little introduction about yourself

I've been blessed enough to have been in the IT industry for just over 30 years now. Starting my career in Florida in the early 90s, and currently residing in Bradenton, FL since 2022. 

My passion for helping secure and simplify technology use for people drove efforts to identify and develop solutions to improve security, supportability and user experience in the growing IoT Smart Technology space. 

What path have you taken to your current position? 

Curiosity in Technology bit me in the late 80s, and early 90s, and started me down a path of growing interest in computer hardware and networking technologies. Starting at Microsoft in 1994, I was one of many who were part of an early Internet boom, supporting and developing solutions that continue to be improved upon at an exponential rate. Having had the opportunity to implement technology across multiple different markets,

I've remained proud of the successes while using the misses as an opportunity for improvement. Focusing my attention on requirements, and use cases and setting expectations through defining what 'good looks like', has served me well throughout my career.

My biggest milestone is the recognition that no one does this alone. I've been blessed to have worked with and grown with some of the most incredible people throughout this process, and thankful for how they've helped me along the path. 

Has it always been your vision to reach the position you’re at? Was your current role part of your vision to become a tech leader?

My vision has never been about achieving a position or earning some set amount of money, but about how I can help use the tools available to me to help others achieve the goals they set for themselves or their business. Prioritizing the desire to participate in successful endeavors above all else. 

Have you had a role model or mentor that has helped you on your journey?

I have had many role models, yet they aren't people most would consider. My father, who always pushed me to never accept that when you succeed in reaching a goal, you need to take a step back and set the next one.

To countless honest, hard-working, passionate, open and communicative colleagues and partners who've contributed in small and large ways to forming the North Start I pursue today. At the same time, I'm thankful for so many of the wrong people who crossed my paths.

Those who helped me learn that title, money and reputation mean nothing without integrity and an interest in hearing opposing perspectives.

How do you see the role of the technology leader evolving over the next 5 years?

I've always believed that technology is only as valuable as those who understand how to use it. As technology affects more and more people, my perspective is that those who listen to and deliver a customer-first vision will lead the pack. 

What skills do you think leaders of the future will need in order to thrive?

Patience. The ability to listen, consume and understand multiple perspectives before moving forward. The 'fail fast' approach is nice in concept, but to often, the customer is on the impacted end of those 'rushed' approaches.

Put yourself in the mind and experience of a consumer. If you're unable to do that then that's a gap. 

Is there anything in particular that you would still like to achieve in your career or what is the next step on your journey?

As long as my mind and health allow me, there is no final achievement. This path is a never-ending step-by-step approach of continuously learning, listening, developing, delivering, rinse and repeat while bringing others along to continue when I'm done. 

What advice would you give to aspiring technology leaders who are just starting their careers?

Listen to many. The tendency to follow or believe that someone with a title delivers the answers that fit you best is naive. We are all independent souls with unique passions, interests, goals and visions.

Find the things that drive you, jump on and enjoy the ride. In many cases I've been given better advice from an unemployed veteran than I have a VP or C-Level leader. Keep your mind open. 

"Listen to many."

What has been the biggest challenge you've faced in your career so far, and how did you overcome it?

I believe we all have our own demons that take us down the wrong path. Recognition that what you are doing isn't working and resetting your course. It's a long ride, and mistakes will happen along the way.

Don't let them define you, but allow them to improve you. 

What role do you see emerging technologies (e.g., AI, machine learning, blockchain) playing in your industry, and how are you preparing for them?

In 30+ years, technology has grown, changed, failed, switched and recovered more than any other business catalyst. As much as I appreciate and respect the deliverables of AI, ML and all other new acronyms, I continue to focus my energy on customers and how we ensure what's delivered is clear, consumable, supportable and delivers on the value propositions promised.

I don't jump onto the new technology solutions immediately, but want to ensure they are ready for primetime before considering their use. Having been bitten by the bad effects of good sales pitches in the past, I think there are amazing breakthroughs coming, but that doesn't negate the need to continue to ask the questions that matter. 

How do you measure and communicate the value and impact of technology initiatives to other business leaders and stakeholders?

I measure success through the voices of the customers. When working with or engaging with others, I step into the customers' shoes and try to act as a vote for what matters to them. 

What has been your most significant achievement or proudest moment as a technology leader?

There are too many to remember. There isn't a 'proudest' moment, per se, but successful participation in hard-fought firefighting efforts that landed the right way are unacclaimed moments of pride and satisfaction for me.

Watching exceptionally good and passionate people when the lightbulb goes off they see how the efforts they participated in finally come together. It's not about me. I'm just along for the ride.

How do you ensure that you and your team stay updated with the latest technology trends and industry best practices?

Communicate, listen, learn, play with, dig deep, share, educate. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to how to stay relevant. You have to always be a contributing member at the table, and ensure you represent more than just yourself. 

A big thank you to Michael Webb from Syntech Networks for sharing his journey to date.

If you would like to gain more perspective from Tech Leaders and CIOs you can read some of our other interviews here.