Meet Geek Girl Susan Cook
Susan Cook will be teaching workshops on: QuickBooks and POS/ecommerce – See all workshops here
1. How and when did you become a Geek Girl?
In 1978 as a sophomore in high school, I was chosen along with 2 boys from my math class to attend a summer SMU computer programming course. I learned to write a simple DOS program and have been hooked on computers ever since.
2. Technology is so big, so diverse: in what parts are you an expert?
Accounting software is my expertise. in what realms are you still learning? Social media is still intimidating, and I call for help with IT and networks.
3. Did you have an experience growing up or as an adult where you felt the huge divide between women and technology?
When my dad died in the late 1960’s, my mom was left helpless and vulnerable in many ways. I remember she could not even write a check to pay the bills.
4. If you answered yes, how did you handle it?
I determined to be capable, so as not to be vulnerable.
5. What was your favorite part of Geek Girl Camp 2009?
Being part of a women helping women event, and meeting some great people.
6. List 3 ways that women (or you specifically) can have an impact on technology.
First, I listen to the needs of my clients to see areas where improved technology can fill the gaps. Second, as a member of 3 different national councils on accounting software, I participate in BETAs, contribute feedback, and make suggestions for improvement in software and applied technologies. Finally, by teaching our children to use technology considerately, economically, and wisely.
7. If you could change one thing about the world (and we know you can) what would it be?
There is a saying, “Give a man(woman) a fish and feed him for a day. Teach a man(woman) to fish and feed him for a lifetime.” Valuable, practical, and true education is the way for change, one person at a time.
8. What is your desire, wish or goal for Geek Girl Camp 2010?
That the women who attend have fun and feel empowered by their new knowledge and network of friends.
9. If the Geek Girls could have 1 minute to talk to the world, what would we say?
You’re smarter than you think you are. Learn, learn, learn!
Susan Cook’s Biography:
Susan R. Cook, President and founder of Account Ability in 1987 on Nantucket Island, a full-service bookkeeping, tax, & payroll service firm that served over 90 different businesses. With over 20 years experience in small business accounting, Susan immediately recognized the value of QuickBooks as an accounting software tool. Now living on Cape Cod, she works as a freelance consultant, Account Ability, selling, supporting, implementing & training QuickBooks and related products. She has taught adult education QuickBooks courses at Upper Cape Cod Regional Technical School. She is a Certified Sleeter Group Consultant, a member of the National Advisor Network, and an Intuit Solution Provider. She has been an Advanced Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor since 2008. She holds additional certifications in QuickBooks Pro & Premier, Point of Sale and Enterprise. Account Ability is the Cape & Islands only Intuit Solutions Provider, offering a full range of value-added consulting services for Intuit QuickBooks Enterprise and Point of Sale Solutions. She is excited to return for a second year as a Geek Girl speaker and share her enthusiasm for QuickBooks and the way it can make running a business simpler.