Open Forum

@Ray Hope started his career as a software developer and business owner, making business solutions for healthcare and local government. After progressing to full-time software development project management for a number of years, Ray transitioned into the manufacturing industry, leading the development of an ERP system, and then later as CIO for a lumber manufacturer. In his current role as VP, Information Technology at Qualico, Ray leads an amazing team of professionals who support infrastructure and business system needs, including NEWSTAR.

What is your professional background?

Software developer, Project Manager (PMP), Senior Leader

How did you become interested in homebuilding?

Homebuilding is very similar to manufacturing, so there was a lot of overlap, and opportunity to introduce concepts across industries.

What is the most rewarding thing about your work?

Seeing the impact of digital technologies.

If you could give yourself advice when you started in the industry, what would it be?

Start at the end: good data (create a desire for it, and the rest will fall into place).

What do you think is the biggest challenge the homebuilding industry faces today?

Currently, the market conditions, both supply and demand.

What are you looking forward to most in the next 5 to 10 years?

Trusted, secure, and low-friction data between all stakeholders, including internal business, suppliers, and customers.

What's your favorite tip for someone using NEWSTAR?

The more you put in, the more you get out – put more data in!

What do you do when you're not working?

Rock/ice climbing and filmmaking.