Hitting the books big time, Gene is currently enrolled in his second semester of computer courses at San Antonio College. To acclimate himself to the new environment of the classroom, he took only seven credit hours last semester. An A student after that experience, he's now a full-time student carrying a 15 hour load.

Also now a computer consultant, Gene assembles computers, builds web pages, and trains clients new to the electronic age. That single home computer which started it all has sprouted to — “at last count around 11, I think,” says Gene. He adds that his wife Janet would probably be happy to see a few of them disappear; meanwhile, 17-year-old twin sons Matthew and Michael are into computers as avidly as their dad is. “They even help me out if I get stuck,” chuckles Gene, “but they won't be around home that much longer.” Matthew will head off to Baylor’s pre-med program; Michael has not yet decided on a specific career path.

Gene will continue some involvement with the younger generation, though. He's a coach for Junior Olympian Bowling, working with youngsters in the 7 to 12 year old age group.

One thing that's obvious is Gene's eagerness at both acquiring computer knowledge and sharing it with others. He credits Ivor Olsen, chair of the Keeping It Simple SIG, with helping him learn computer hardware; Gene now helps Ivor. Gene also helps with the Computer Literacy SIG many Friday afternoons. Back when he first joined Alamo PC, he assisted in our move to Central Park Mall — anything that didn't aggravate an ailing back — and did some of the much needed painting of the walls. He also helped to raise the walls when the Computer Lab was being constructed!

Gene enjoys being his own boss and his new career-in-the-making. He sees a bright future in getting his certification through his SAC courses and his representative status with FLASH NET.