Member Spotlight
- Shannon Farguson
- Ari Hershberg
Welcome to our CHEFS Team Member Spotlight Page
Get to know the team behind the work! As part of our commitment to collaboration, we’ve launched a Spotlight Page—your go-to place to meet our team put faces to names, and build stronger connections. Check it out and discover the people driving our shared success!
For our seventh edition of the CHEFS Team Member Spotlight, we are introducing Jason Chung, a Full Stack Developer on the CHEFS Team.
Q & A with Jason Chung
What is your role in BC GOV and what product are you currently working on at the CHEFS team
I am a full-stack developer at BC GOV, currently focused on Tenant Management Systems (TMS). My main responsibilities involve enhancing our developer operations, specifically by setting up a pipeline to automate the deployment process of TMS to the OpenShift platform, allowing us to share it publicly.
What do you like most about working at the CHEFS team?
My experience working with the CHEFS team has been very positive, and I believe this attitude extends throughout the Exchange Lab. While it is a challenging environment, it is not stressful. I've heard accounts of negative experiences for software developers in the public sector, but I have not encountered any of that. Everyone here maintains a professional work ethic while still being approachable and relatable.
Do you have a favourite failure or apparent failure that has set you up for later success?
In my first job, I was responsible for developing a program to be used at the ingress points of events around the city. The development took place here in Canada, while testing was conducted after we traveled to another country to upload the program to the kiosks. The temperatures in that country were significantly hotter, which caused the computers inside the kiosks to throttle themselves due to the heat. This created a cascading series of issues for the program. As a result, I became much more risk-averse, ensuring that everything I built included failover features, concurrency management, backup systems, and redundancy. Working in a team, this mindset allows me to approach the software and architecture we develop in a more secure and robust manner.
What is an absurd thing you love?
I enjoy consuming media in the horror genre! Growing up, I watched all sorts of spooky movies and I'm always on the lookout for the next film that will frighten me. One of my favorite classic horror movies is Alien (1979), while a modern horror film I really enjoyed is Hereditary (2018). I'm also looking forward to the upcoming movie 28 Years Later, primarily because of the nostalgia it brings.
What is a book or movie that has greatly influenced your life?
"Alien" (1979) was probably the most influential movie in my life. It was the first time I truly felt scared by a horror film, but it also sparked my interest in science fiction! I have always found the technology depicted in science fiction fascinating, which led me to research the technological aspects of those fictional universes. This curiosity ultimately guided me toward a career in software development.
One piece of technology that particularly blew my mind was the replicator in "Star Trek." It could create and recycle just about anything! These days, we have a variety of prosumer printing technologies available for hobbyists, home builders, and even in kitchens.
Q & A with Walter Moar
1. What is your role in BC GOV and what product are you currently working on at the CHEFS team
I'm a full stack developer with the BC Government, currently working on the frontend of the Tenant Management System (TMS). TMS serves as the administrative hub for managing organizations, users, and permissions across our shared digital tools, ensuring that the right people have access to the right information.
I build user interfaces using Vue.js, a modern web framework that enables us to create clean, interactive experiences for users on the platform. Think of it like using flexible Lego blocks to design responsive and accessible applications.
My focus is not just on today's needs but also on building a foundation other developers can rely on years from now—so every decision we make balances ease of use, maintainability, and long-term sustainability.
What do you like most about working at the CHEFS team?
What I appreciate about working with the CHEFS team is that each member brings genuine expertise to their respective areas, and we collaborate effectively to create something substantial. Everyone is knowledgeable, and when we combine our insights, we end up with a strong product. It's rewarding to work with a team that can come together to deliver high-quality results.
Do you have a favourite failure or apparent failure that has set you up for later success?
During my undergraduate studies, I initially declared a major in mathematics. However, I was unable to enroll in one of the required courses due to a scheduling conflict. To maintain my credit load, I decided to take a computer science course instead. I enjoyed programming and problem-solving much more than mathematics. As a result, I switched my major to computer science entirely. What I initially viewed as a scheduling failure ultimately changed my career path. If I had managed to enroll in that math course as planned, I likely would have stuck with that track and never discovered my passion for coding.
What is an absurd thing you love?
I love climbing mountains on Vancouver Island. There are numerous peaks to tackle—some are well-known, while many are relatively obscure and difficult to access. I enjoy everything from solo trips to leading larger groups, though I find that a small, solid group is ideal. Through the Alpine Club of Canada, I teach mountaineering and rope work, and I am part of a team organizing a fly-in summer camp this year. It's incredible how much of my free time is dedicated to scrambling up remote peaks that require bushwhacking through unmarked terrain, and there are still so many more to explore.
What is a book or movie that has greatly influenced your life?
Edward Abbey's writing, particularly in "Desert Solitaire," aligns closely with my views on work and life. His disdain for systems that prioritize process over results, belief in doing honest work well, and preference for direct action over endless discussion all resonate with my approach to development and problem-solving. Abbey's commitment to authenticity over conformity is crucial for fostering genuine leadership and driving meaningful change.
Q & A with Shankar Sethuraman
What is your role in BC GOV and what product are you currently working on at the CHEFS team
I work as an enterprise architect, backend developer, and product analyst with the Learning team. My primary focus is building the Tenant Management System (TMS), which delivers multi-tenant functionality for Common Components across BC Gov.
If you're new to the concept, imagine your team's digital workspace as an apartment building. Each team has its own private, secure unit—completely separate from others. That's what multi-tenancy means: shared infrastructure, but with independent spaces and data. This setup makes it easier to connect services across government, helping teams move faster and reduce barriers.
What do you like most about working at the CHEFS team?
I admire our team's trust, collaboration, and confidence when tackling complex challenges. We engage with external partners to understand their Common Components needs, and I'm proud of our shared focus on delivering value across the platform. The support we receive from BC Gov is also remarkable—it really shows in our work.
Do you have a favourite failure or apparent failure that has set you up for later success?
One of my most important failures occurred early in my career during a production deployment that went sideways. It caused a major outage for end users and left my team scrambling for hours. At the time, it was devastating. However, in hindsight, it became one of the most important learning moments of my professional life.
The experience drilled into me the non-negotiable value of quality control—not just in testing code, but in treating the entire software development lifecycle (SDLC) as a chain where every link matters - planning, design, review, deployment, and monitoring. I learned that skipping steps or rushing for velocity invites disaster. That failure made me appreciate the discipline behind checklists, peer reviews, pre-prod environments, rollback strategies, etc.
Since then, I have approached software development with a much more holistic mindset. I focus not just on building software but also on creating systems that can be trusted in production.
What is an absurd thing you love?
Watching Avengers cartoons with my kids! I realize I am much too old for it, but seeing the looks on my children's faces during the action sequences brings out the kid in me! It's a fun thing to both watch and debrief after!
What is a book or movie that has greatly influenced your life?
Atomic Habits by James Clear. It showed me how small, consistent changes can lead to meaningful results. The ideas of habit stacking and tracking really resonated with me. I revisit the book every year—it's simple, relatable, and easy to apply to everyday life.
Q & A with Mohammed Bah
What is your role in BC GOV and what product are you currently working on at the CHEFS team
I serve as a Scrum Master within BC Government, supporting teams in delivering value-driven solutions by applying the best practices in agility. Currently, I'm working with the CHEFS team to help deliver a Tenant Management System—an enterprise feature within our broader forms management platform. It's one of several products CHEFS is building to support and streamline services across the BC Government.
What do you like most about working at the CHEFS team?
What I appreciate most about the CHEFS team is their openness and willingness to challenge agile practices they don't fully understand or find ineffective. This fosters a healthy feedback loop that allows me to revisit our approach and co-create solutions more tailored to our unique team dynamics.
Do you have a favourite failure or apparent failure that has set you up for later success?
One memorable failure that helped shape who I am today was a campus magazine I founded while attending university in Nigeria. It eventually expanded nationally, but due to funding constraints and a handful of operational issues, it didn't last. Despite that, the experience taught me invaluable lessons in mental toughness and persistence. It motivated me to read personal development books and seek mentorship—foundations I believe have made me a better professional, husband, and father.
What is an absurd thing you love?
I have a pretty absurd love for wearing sweaters—regardless of the weather. Whether it's blazing hot or mildly cool, chances are I'm still wearing one!
What is a book or movie that has greatly influenced your life?
The Qur'an has had the biggest impact on my life. Beyond the scientific insights that made me reflect, like those on embryology and the universe, it has served as a vital source of spiritual and moral guidance. It's helped me make sense of life's challenges and shaped how I lead, parent, and carry myself in the world.
Q & A with Chris Robinson
What is your role in BC GOV and what product are you currently working on at the CHEFS team?
I am an enterprise architect working on the architecture to integrate common services with custom web applications, creating comprehensive digital solutions for all ministries.
What do you like most about working at the CHEFS team?
The work has the potential to positively affect ALL software development initiatives across BC Gov and aligns with best practices around the world. It's pretty exciting!
Do you have a favorite failure or apparent failure that has set you up for later success?
In a previous job, I learned a valuable lesson from the failure of a highly innovative, self-provisioning, virtual machine-based SaaS service designed for financial practices. Despite its advanced features, I discovered that customers typically prioritize ease of use and enjoyment over clever and elegant architecture.
What is an absurd thing you love?
Guitars and chickens.
Chickens were featured in a marketing video I created for an AI-automated data ingestion system 15 years ago (yes, AI did exist back then). The tagline was: "When you're a chicken, life is too short to spend time doing everything you want, like eating, laying eggs, roosting, and eating, without having to deal with tedious data entry." Since then, I've realized that chickens are nature's version of Prozac—it's impossible to watch them for more than a few minutes without smiling.
My passion for guitars has been constant and irrational. I once funded a year-long European van holiday with a '63 Fender Strat, and I now own about 12 guitars.
What is a book or movie that has greatly influenced your life?
My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell. The book sparked a lasting affection for non-humans.
Q & A with Bhuvanesh Pattanashetti
What is your role in BC GOV and what product are you currently working on at the CHEFS team?
I am a Client Success Analyst on the team, dedicated to helping clients optimize their use of Common Hosted Forms (CHEFS). My responsibilities include managing and customizing forms, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring a smooth user experience. Additionally, I serve as a Developer/Technical Architect, working on proof-of-concept projects scheduled for piloting in the upcoming quarters.
What do you like most about working at the CHEFS team?
What I appreciate most about working with the CHEFS team is our collaborative and client-first approach. Engaging with clients, understanding their needs, and transforming those insights into user-friendly form solutions makes the work both engaging and fulfilling. CHEFS is a simple yet powerful tool that enhances the accessibility of government services, and I'm proud to be part of a team that is making a meaningful difference.
Do you have a favorite failure or apparent failure that has set you up for later success?
When I first started, I focused solely on the solutions available within the user interface. This approach enabled us to make our solutions more efficient and flexible to meet our clients' needs better.
Initially, I worked only with the standard options, which felt like a roadblock when something wasn't possible within those limits. However, as I began exploring custom JavaScript, I realized we could achieve much more. Scripts allow us to customize form behaviour and create dynamic solutions extending beyond the default capabilities. This has enabled us to address various challenges more effectively.
This shift in perspective encouraged me to think outside the box and seek creative solutions rather than feeling restricted by limitations. It has been a valuable learning experience that has made my work more impactful, allowing me to support clients more effectively while enhancing the CHEFS platform.
What is an absurd thing you love?
It might not be entirely absurd, but it is a stubborn habit. Using a 15-year-old DSLR when smartphones can do it all? I know the settings like the back of my hand and just can't let it go. My trusty 50mm lens and a couple of others still allow me to capture some of my best shots. Sure, changing lenses can be a hassle—I often find myself fumbling with lens caps. The autofocus is hit or miss, and transferring photos feels like dealing with ancient technology. But somehow, all of that makes it even more enjoyable. As long as it still clicks, I'm keeping it.
What is a book or movie that has greatly influenced your life?
I enjoy the movie "Whiplash," as it is one of those films that lingers in your mind long after watching it. It's a high-energy story about a dedicated drummer and his mentor, who pushes him to his absolute limits. The movie is intense, unpredictable, and filled with raw emotion, keeping you engaged until the end. It blurs the line between passion and perseverance, ultimately leaving us to question whether Andrew achieved greatness because of Fletcher's methods or despite them.
Q & A with Minshen Wang
What is your role in BC GOV and what product are you currently working on at the CHEFS team?
My name is Minshen Wang, and I am the Service Designer on the CHEFS Team. My current focus is on the “learning” side, connecting with stakeholders and users of CHEFS to gather insights, use cases, and feedback to guide the design of our product as well as service delivery.
What do you like most about working at the CHEFS team?
What I enjoy most about working on this team is the opportunity to bridge the gap between policy and the people who use our services. As a Service Designer, I collaborate closely with real users—public servants or everyday citizens—to understand their needs, frustrations, and behaviours. It's incredibly rewarding to translate these insights into strategic improvements that make common components clearer, more accessible, and more efficient. I also appreciate collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to ensure our product is functional and tailored to the diverse and complex use cases within the BC Government. Ultimately, knowing that our work helps people navigate their daily tasks with less frustration is what makes this role so fulfilling.
Do you have a favourite or apparent failure that has set you up for later success?
One of my favourite experiences, initially perceived as a "failure," was the accident that led me to my current career path. I was a biology nerd and enrolled in UVic's Health Information Science program, hoping to pursue a future in health or human biological sciences without thoroughly researching the program. It was a fantastic experience but almost entirely unrelated to health sciences! However, I was introduced to data science, healthcare policies, and software design, which set me on a different and unexpectedly fascinating path, ultimately leading me to where I am today. While I wouldn't consider myself a "success" just yet, I have found this journey satisfying.
What is an absurd thing you love?
It's not really absurd. I love gardening! As a millennial, I've often been told that this hobby is more suited for grandmas.
What is a book or movie that has greatly influenced your life?
A book that has had a profound influence on me is Anthony Doerr's "All the Light We Cannot See." Before reading it, I hadn't fully appreciated how fortunate I am to live in an era of peace despite hearing my grandfather, a World War II veteran, talk about the war. This book deeply moved me with its empathy, perspective, and human connection themes. Doerr's writing is compelling, precise, and poetic. While the Netflix adaptation was good, the book was a thousand times better.
For our first edition of the CHEFS Team Member Spotlight, we are introducing Shannon Farguson, a Senior UX Designer on the CHEFS Team.
Q & A with Shannon Farguson
What is your role in BC GOV and what product are you currently working on for the CHEFS team?
As a Senior UX Designer on the CHEFS team, I’m currently working on a Multi-Tenancy Proof of Concept. This initiative enables CHEFS form owners to connect related forms under a common initiative while ensuring security, scalability, and usability.
What’s most exciting about this project is that if our hypothesis proves successful in CHEFS, we can expand multi-tenancy to other common components. This would be a significant win for the BC Government, as it balances shared efficiency, privacy, and customization across multiple systems—not just CHEFS.
What do you like most about working on the CHEFS team?
I like the challenge of simplifying complex concepts into something easy to understand and use. It’s far easier to create something complicated than to distill complexity into clarity— that’s what makes this work so rewarding.
Do you have a favourite failure or apparent failure that has set you up for later success?
I enrolled in a two-year Classical Animation diploma program in the early 2000s. While I didn’t fail at it, I quickly realized I wasn’t great either. Rather than forcing a path that didn’t feel right, I chose to pivot after graduation and explore design instead.
Twenty years later, I’m still in design, constantly learning and growing. Looking back, what felt like a setback at the time was an opportunity to discover a career I truly love.
What is an absurd thing you love?
These are not absurd things to love, but I do absurdly love: my ‘Tiny Terror’ of a Dachshund, books and Audible, a dry gin martini, exploring the island as a relative newbie, not having to cook on the daily and finally, my husband and his ability to make an incredible meal out of whatever is in our fridge.
Is there a book or movie that has greatly influenced your life?
As a kid, I loved ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ books. They sparked two lifelong passions: reading and travel. That love for exploration led me to "choose my own adventure" across Canada for nearly two decades, living and working in almost every province from coast to coast.
