N. E. Walker is president of Design/Analysis Consultants, Inc., a technology firm specializing in highly reliable electronic products. In addition to his corporate duties, he has written newsletters for many years, often exploring the psychological factors that greatly impact the workplace. Walker has also authored The Design Analysis Handbook, a popular technical book.

N. E. Walker lives in Tampa, Florida, with his talented wife Barb (counselorbarb.com) and their Persian watchcat Misha, who will growl if someone knocks on the door.

Cat Update: After a long and healthy life, our loving and sweet-tempered Misha died in February 2013. After grieving (yes, anyone who has had a very loving pet knows what I mean), Barb and I recently decided to give a home to a “rescue cat,” one that had been abandoned to a shelter and would likely be put to sleep if not adopted (because they’re older, or perhaps have some anti-social traits). During a visit to the shelter we spotted a beautiful middle-aged mixed-Siamese named Star. Star was sitting far back in her cage. Her background information (provided by St. Francis Animal Rescue) said that her owner had died suddenly, but that Star was very loving and affectionate. But then we were warned, “she’ll bite you if you try to touch her.” Well, that’s why were there, to rescue a cat that was unlikely to survive otherwise. After taking her home, and after a few bites and claws, Star learned that she was in a safe place with a loving family, and has been absolutely wonderful — no more bites except little gentle “love bites” — and she craves attention and purrs up a storm. So if you’re thinking of getting a pet and you have a patient and kind nature (i.e., you’re someone who won’t yell or lash out at a distraught pet if you get nipped), remember that all the cute and cuddly animals will easily find a home. So why not rescue an abandoned one, and help it get well?