One day later this month — after he’s worked his last day at CGI and wrapped up his efforts on some of the state’s top boards — Mike Reagan is going to give himself a moment to chill.
“After 42 years of working, I’m looking forward to it,” he said.
The next day, he’ll get right back to work.
Reagan, a top information technology executive and thought leader who worked at legacy brands such as MCI, ITT, Sprint and Bell South before a 20-year career at CGI that saw him rise to the role of senior vice president in charge of the New York City metro area, isn’t ready to slow down.
“I’m not the kind of guy who can sit on the couch all day; I’m not wired like that,” he said. “I know a lot of people, when they retire, have this fear of: ‘What am I going to do Monday morning?’ That’s not me.”
Grateful for a career that has given him so much, Reagan said it’s time to give back. Becoming more involved in the nonprofit sector is his first goal.
Reagan said he’ll do even more with Elijah’s Promise, the well-known New Brunswick-based nonprofit that aims to break the cycle of poverty through food services and social services.
“We provide more than 350,000 meals a year,” he said. “I’m going to continue to stay active there, especially in terms of fundraising.”
He also has joined the board of new nonprofit: the Back Bay and Artificial Reef Foundation.
Created by Joe DeCotiis earlier this year, the organization aims to work with the neurodiverse community through activities involving the water — whether it be learning about the ecological impact and importance of oceans, bays or rivers, or just providing an opportunity for those on the autism spectrum to enjoy a great day on the water.
Reagan, who lives in Manahawkin, said it’s a perfect fit.
“I live on the water in the Jersey Shore; I’m a big boater,” he said. “I think this is another way to give back. And I think it’s something that a lot of the boaters where I live will gravitate to. What could be better than giving back while we’re on our boats?”
Of course, Reagan isn’t ready to walk away from the IT world.
While he will exit the boards of Choose New Jersey, the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce and the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (those seats are tied to CGI), he will remain on the board of the South Jersey Technology Park — and expects to get outreach from others looking to tap into his expertise. (Reach him at [email protected].)
“The IT world is changing rapidly, no doubt about it,” he said. “And that’s a good thing. When you talk about being more efficient in the workplace — especially at government agencies — this is an area where you can really make a difference.”
Making a difference. That is Reagan’s job going forward.
“I’ve been very fortunate, very blessed,” he said. “I have a wonderful family; I’ve had a great career — and I’ve been very successful. Now, it’s time to give back.”
