A Computer Scientist with a Thirst for Knowledge

In each issue of the newsletter, we spotlight a member of our organization. This month, we’d like to introduce you to Vitalii Baglaiev, a computer analyst with a rather unique journey.
 

Mr. Baglaiev, you work in the Information Resources and Biomedical Engineering Directorate as a computer analyst. Can you tell us a little about the journey that led you to this position? 
“I should start by telling you that before immigrating to Québec in 2012, I worked in the hospitality and tourism industry back in my native country, Ukraine.  In the low season, I also worked in IT. Prior to that, I obtained a bachelor’s degree in business administration and another in IT and network management. I then went on to get a master’s degree in business management as well as IT. It’s fair to say that I was somewhat of a professional student! 

When I arrived here, I was quick to enroll in the Programme intensif de francisation offered at the Université de Montréal. I wanted to improve my knowledge of French, which at the time was rather limited. I went on to obtain a college diploma (DEC) in information technology management from Champlain College in Saint-Lambert, in addition to a certificate in project management from McGill University.”

What prompted you to choose Québec as your new home?  
“You know, for generations of fellow Ukrainians, Canada has represented a safe and welcoming haven. Many are drawn by the vastness of the land, the prospect of starting a business, especially in the agricultural sector, not to mention the culture, peace and freedom this country is known for.

I was personally drawn to Montréal because of its rich culture, the quality of its English and French language educational institutions, the great career opportunities and the fact that it’s pleasant and friendly. The decision to settle in Québec was made well before the heartbreaking events that have plagued Ukraine for some months now. 

With so many degrees, can we assume that it was relatively easy for you to land your first job?  
“As part of my college diploma (DEC), I did an internship at the Jewish General Hospital in the summer of 2015. It was my very first experience working in a healthcare setting. Then, after being hired by Trilogie Groupe Conseil inc., an IT consultation firm, I continued to work in that facility for six months.  

The next winter, my employer sent me to work at Hôpital du Sacré-Cœur-de-Montréal. And then, on March 1, 2016, I transitioned to the Lakeshore General Hospital, once again as a consultant. Three years later, I joined the extended CIUSSS family as a computer technician and, just a few months ago, began working as a computer analyst.”

What does a typical day look like for you?
“This won’t come as a surprise, but much of my work involves dealing with IT-related issues encountered by employees across our organization. More often than not, we must react quickly and resolve problems of varying complexity.  Every day brings its share of challenges. It’s something I find very stimulating. 

We also undertake longer range projects that require thought, research and focus. Just as an example, at the Lakeshore General Hospital, we adapted and integrated software for the Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine. We combined our expertise with that of radiologists, physicians and picture archiving and communication system (PACS) administrators to implement a PowerScribe 360 voice-to-text application with MR14 PACS, a first of its kind in Québec.”

What motivates you to work in the health and social services network and, more specifically, at the Lakeshore General Hospital? 
“When I started working in the healthcare field, the first thing that struck me was the size of the computer networks that are needed to make sure that everything runs smoothly. I wanted to understand the basic principles of these networks, from a technical point of view, as well as learn about the rules for relaying information to the various target audiences.

Since I enjoy interacting and chatting with people of different cultural backgrounds, working at the Lakeshore General Hospital is wonderful. Whether it’s with coworkers or any of the staff members, managers or physicians who call on our services, I am able to satiate my interest in communicating with people from other cultures. 

Lastly, I love our IT team! I also really appreciate my manager Yves Bergeron, who gives every team member an opportunity to develop their full potential.”    

Mr. Baglaiev kindly agreed to share some aspects of his personal life with us…

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and about your family?
“I am married to Kseniia who also works in the health and social services network. She’s a pharmacy technical assistant at the CIUSSS du Nord-de-l’Île-de-Montréal. We are the proud parents of a 17-year old son whose name is Valerii, a gifted ballet dancer who studies at the École supérieure de ballet du Québec.”

What do you like to do for fun?
“My wife and I love to kayak in the Greater Montréal area. When we can get away, we enjoy exploring Canada, especially Québec and the Maritimes. Of the places we’ve visited so far, Bonaventure, in the Gaspé Peninsula and Shediac, New Brunswick are among our favourites.

I also enjoy activities that energize me such as being out in nature and cycling, or attending rock or classical music concerts.  I must add that we live in Rosemont and I absolutely love this area! We are in the heart of Montréal and everything the city has to offer is within easy reach.”

Do you have a hidden talent?
“I don’t know if it’s really a talent, but I speak several languages, namely English, French, Ukrainian, Russian and Czech.” 

Is there anything people don’t know about you?
“Back when I lived in Ukraine, in an area near the Black Sea, I was the representative for my village not once but twice! This is what prompted me to study law at Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University.”

“I have an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, particularly when it comes to science, geography and history. I love to study,” says Vitalii Baglaiev.

“I’m fortunate to be part of an amazing team of ten dedicated coworkers. As a matter of fact, they were kind enough to step in for me while I give this interview,” adds M. Baglaiev proudly.

Mr. Baglaiev has been teaching IT support part-time in the Department of Continuing Education at Champlain College, in Saint-Lambert since the fall of 2018.  “I really enjoy broadening my knowledge in the field of healthcare where being flexible and reacting quickly is a valuable asset. A student once said to me “If you’re able to manage IT projects in the field of healthcare, you can manage anything.” He was absolutely right!”