David Schaal, DTM

Candidate’s Office: Program Quality Director

Program year: 2023-2024

Member since: 1997

Education: 

Roosevelt High School Minneapolis, 1981

BS Computer Science, University of Minnesota Institute of Technology, 1986

 

Toastmasters offices held and terms of service (international and regional level):

All Club Officer Roles
Area 43 Director, 1999-2000
Area 7 Director, 2014-2015
Area 24 Director, 2020-2021
Administration Manager, District 6, 2021
Division B Director, District 6, 2021-2022
Club Growth Director, District 6, 2022-2023

Toastmasters honors and recognition:

Distinguished Area 43, 1999-2000
Toastmaster of the Year, Area 3, 2002-2003
Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM), 2014

Relevant work experience and how it relates to Toastmasters and your role as a District officer:

  • I have worked as an IT Business Analyst for 20 years. In that time, I have lead small teams, performed training, created documentation and manage my own work.
  • I have developed skill in time management, planning and inspiring others. These are skills I see will help me succeed as Club Growth Director. 
  • I run two small businesses as a Wedding Officiant and as a Santa Claus performer. In these roles, I am responsible for contact management, scheduling and basic accounting. 

What experience do you have in strategic planning?

I have had minimal experience in strategic planning before this year. I have worked with the District 6 Trio to develop a District plan and to execute my portion of the plan.

What experience do you have in the area of finance?

I have kept books for my two small businesses.

What experience do you have in developing procedures?

I develop and document procedures as part of my job as a Business Analyst.

What lessons did you learn from previous leadership positions?

It is easier to get cooperation and agreement when the team helps make the decision.

Why do you want to serve as a district leader?

Toastmasters is a transformative program that builds confidence while developing real world skills. I wish to continue my own development as I provide an environment where others can have similar experiences to those I have had.

In your opinion, what are the district mission’s major objectives and how would you work to achieve them?

The major mission of the District is to serve clubs and members through educating and empowering club and District officers in providing a Toastmasters educational experiences to all members. The District is tasked with providing an environment that is empowering and allows the club members to thrive.

Additional information about yourself:

I have lived most of my life in South Minneapolis. I am married and have two adult sons.