I am a capitalist [View all]

[Retired Engineer Bob]

After such a provocative statement further explanation is needed of course.

Where to begin........

Mom was a stay at home person. She has convinced me that this was her choice, although I have lingering doubts. Our regional school district had no pre-school when I was a pup, nor kindergarten. School started at grade 1.

I did watch Sesame Street, and Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood pre-school at home. Mother made a point to read to me early. I was encouraged to learn early on.

Reading, reading, reading. I loved reading, evolved from Hardy Boys to Jaws by the 4th grade. Science fiction became a big thing for me. I recall being excited getting a library card for Milwaukee system, the world opened up.

Per testing, the school suggested I move up one or two grades. Mother refused, thought emotional development is as important as scholastic, and held me back.

I guess I had a penchant for math and science. High school testing suggested I persue (sp?) engineering. Graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee in ‘89.

The first job was for a consulting engineering firm, $22k/yr. After almost 10 years, my boss told me they were fed up with the current company which had been bought and sold several times. The top four folks from the local office were going to start a new company. I was invited to join, and I could invest in shares.

I did. Borrowed $25k (at 9% interest) from my folks. Shares were $125/per. Paid folks back. Part of my retirement is being forced to sell share back. Current value is $2,550/share. I can retire at 56.

My company did water and wastewater treatment. We had to compete against other firms to get our work. Contractors had to competitively bid our projects. Everything was open to public inspection. We won more often than not and we’re successful. Access to clean water has saved more lives than any other medical advance. Our work prevents cholera, typhoid, dysentary among others.

I refuse to feel guilty.

I am a Democratic Party supporter. My first presidential vote was for Dukakis.