Martin Lack, Director, MLAA

Martin joined the computer industry in 1968 and worked on some of the earliest multi-access computer systems. They serviced 25 research institutions across the whole of southern England. We had 256K RAM, 30Mb of hard drive and used 80cps remote teleprinters; technology has progressed a little since then.

Over those 40 years, Martin enjoyed a number of distinct careers. Initially it was sales support in the UK research sector, then project management of large computer systems in Australasia, as marketing manager at the beginning of the PC revolution, commercialisation of ICT research at Queensland universities, a period as a self-employed consultant and now managing leading-edge computer conferences across Australia, more so than any other company. 

Martin became an inaugural committee member of the Queensland Branch of the AIIA on its formation in 1997. He has continued to work with AIIA to grow the industry and increase dialogue between all stake holders. For most of the time Martin has been Honorary Secretary, but also had a stint as Branch Chair and a three year term on the AIIA Federal Board. For two of those years he was a member of the Executive, a key operational committee at the federal level. 

Martin brings passion, commitment and endless enthusiasm to his roles with AIIA. His special interest is growing the market and engaging local companies in our success as an association.

Martin is retiring after 24 years with the AIIA and it is only fitting that he be acknowledged for his tireless efforts to promote the Australian ICT industry. As a final highlight Martin delivered the first combined state awards event with AIIA, ACS and Pearcey Foundation in July this year. His is surely a hard act to follow.