Steven Hughes

When Steve Hughes graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Systems from James Cook University in 1992, his first job in IT wasn’t exactly what he had envisaged. 

"I got a job at the Meat Works, and because they knew I had IT skills, I was given the job of typing into a computer to print out labels for the meat boxes,’’ he said.

Steve said  in 1992 business were just beginning to get computers ,and it was an exciting time to be entering the field.

After working in a number of IT jobs in Townsville, Steve decided to travel the well-worn path of young Aussies, and headed to London.

For seven years he had the enviable job of working for the Lawn Tennis Association of England, Scotland and Wales, attending  the Wimbledon championships.

Steve said his most memorable tennis moment was when Pat Rafter took on Goran Ivanišević in the Men’s Final of 2001.

London was also the place where he met his South African future-bride, Norma, who also worked in IT.

After their first daughter was born, the young family travelled to Townsville for a three month holiday; however, the plan changed, and they decided to stay.

Steve went on to work for the Townsville City Council for ten years before joining the Mater Private Hospital Townsville five years ago.

Steve says he is a self-confessed nerd, and loves working in IT.

"I enjoy the challenge of IT - every day is different, and healthcare is one of the biggest areas of IT change,’’ he said.

In his role, Steve leads a team of three IT professionals.

"We have a great culture in our team, and I love coming to work every day,’’ he said.