Can'd Aid Foundation

Scott Hicar, an experienced professional with more than twenty years of practical expertise in transformational positions in Technology Leadership, presently holds the position of Senior Vice President and CIO at Benchmark Electronics. In this role, he is globally accountable for ensuring smooth operations, systems, and infrastructure that effectively cater to the needs of our business and customers worldwide.

As the Chief Information Officer (CIO) and a board member at Can'd Aid Foundation, could you provide an overview of your role and responsibilities within the company?

As the Chief Information Officer (CIO) and a board member at Can'd Aid Foundation, my primary focus will be on providing an overview of my role and responsibilities within Benchmark, where I serve as the Senior Vice President (SVP) and CIO. In this capacity, I am responsible for overseeing global Information Technology and Cyber Security for our company. I report directly to the CEO and lead a team responsible for managing all aspects of infrastructure, IT Operations, Application Development, and Cyber Security within the organization. While my board support for Can'd Aid Foundation is also significant, I will primarily concentrate on discussing my role within Benchmark in response to your inquiry.

As a CIO, what are some of the key challenges you face in leveraging technology effectively?

As a CIO in the manufacturing industry, some of the key challenges I face in leveraging technology effectively are ensuring pragmatism and value delivery within a complex, lower-margin operating model. With factories operating round-the-clock, limited time is available for implementing enterprise changes and applications, necessitating a highly focused approach to utilize time effectively.

With the rapid pace of technological advancements, how tostay informed about emerging technologies and assess their potential impact?

To stay informed about emerging technologies and assess their potential impact, it is advisable to closely observe the vendor community, both directly and through Value Added Resellers, as they often deploy technology in various scenarios, providing insights into emerging trends. Additionally, engaging in peer discussions with other CIOs about their experiences of success and failure can further enhance your understanding of the market and its technological developments.

What advice would you give to young professionals who are interested in pursuing a career in technology, and what qualities do you think are essential for success in this field?

The most crucial advice for young professionals interested in pursuing a career in technology is to embrace curiosity. In the field of IT, technologies are constantly evolving and advancing. Starting with a particular technology will often lead to encountering new technologies or improved versions of existing ones over time. Therefore, cultivating a strong desire to continuously learn and stay updated on emerging trends will pave the way for a rewarding and enduring career in the technology industry.