Tim Conway's Background
Tim Conway, 44, is founder of Ignite Young Adults, based in Arlington Heights, Illinois (northwest suburb of Chicago). He believes every person has an “inner fire” that can be lit. To fan these flames, Tim establishes rapport with individuals through phone, e-mail and in-person discussions. After a client completes proven surveys and assessments, Tim interprets the results and recommends ideal academic majors, job titles, industries and work-settings.

Tim guides young people to: play their strengths; select well-suited coursework/hobbies/careers; and tout distinct talents while pursuing fulfilling employment. When motivating individuals, Tim plays various roles: sounding board; idea generator; tutor; self-marketing strategist; and advocate/cheerleader.

CONNECTED TO HIS WORK

Tim empathizes with those trying to “figure it out” because he: under-performed in high school/college classes; shifted majors three times; job-hopped during his 20s; and made career changes. As Tim now reflects: “Back then, I lacked a fire-in-the-belly.” Ironically, Tim’s past struggles led to his calling to bolster others.

After graduating from University of Dayton (Ohio) with a B.A. in Political Science in 1983, Tim began a circuitous career path: direct sales for Xerox Corporation; new packaging development for McDonald’s restaurants; and public relations at Sears, Roebuck & Co. From his 15-years in Corporate America, Tim acquired life lessons to assist others to find their fit in the World of Work -- with less strain/pain.

Tim settled into his true vocation after 10 years as a volunteer career coach for his alma mater. As Tim is fond of saying: “It’s not how you start in life, it’s how you finish.”

ALWAYS LEARNING

Along his work/life odyssey, Tim earned two master’s degrees with honors from Roosevelt University in Counseling/Human Services and Integrated Marketing Communications (e.g., research, copywriting). Both curriculums are relevant now as he assists individuals to formulate memorable personal brands. He remains in higher education as adjunct instructor at DePaul University for undergraduates completing an internship.

As a member of American Counseling Association and National Career Development Association, Tim stays updated on his specialties of abilities-based mentoring, bold job-hunting techniques and the societal trend of Emerging Adulthood (age 18-30).

With spouse Susan, he is busy raising three children and several guinea pigs. Tim’s hobbies are: family activities; jogging; self-help books; jazz; and public speaking (e.g., to parent groups, university alumni chapters, church ministries).