Dan King
Program Manager
Hometown: Seattle,
USA
I work in HR, where I’m involved in several projects with an international dimension – for example I manage the international internship program, work on overseas recruiting, and provide service to our non-Chinese speaking employees. Besides that I might be asked to write/edit/translate correspondence, policy documents, forms – anything under the HR sun. I also do editing and proofreading for ITRI Today, and often help other ITRI departments editing technical papers, proposals, and so on. I like the variety, getting to work in a lot of different areas – so I’m never bored, I’m learning all the time, and I feel like I’m able to get some new ideas implemented and make a positive contribution.
Both of my kids went through ITRI's on-campus kindergarten which provides a nice environment, good teachers and a lot of space to play. The campus is large and has some nice fields (not easy to find here) so we often come in on weekends to play ball, or go swimming in the indoor pool.
I’ve lived in Taiwan since 1996. It definitely has its upsides and downsides – but then, what place doesn’t? You can live very comfortably, do interesting work and be well appreciated and rewarded for it. Not only are most Taiwanese quite friendly, you also meet amusing characters from all over the world. On a regular basis you will see things you’ve never seen before. What are the drawbacks? Many foreigners would mention the crowds – it can be hard to get away to someplace quiet, though that’s something you figure out as you live here longer. The tropical climate is wonderful at times – oppressive at others. But there’s nothing you can’t adjust to, even learn to enjoy. I would just say that if you’re curious, come on over. Experience it for yourself.