Bio

Peter Beens is a retired educator and curriculum specialist with over 30 years of experience in Computer Studies and Technological Education. He spent much of his teaching career as a Computer Science, Computer Technology, Communications Technology, and ICT in Business teacher and department head (1993-2007, 2009-2019) with the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN).

A former Education Officer (2007-2009) at the Ontario Ministry of Education, Peter was responsible for the writing, editing, and public rollout of the province's current Technological Education and Computer Studies curricula. His career in education was preceded by a technical career in aerospace, serving as a Flight Test Technologist (1986-1992) at Eurocopter Canada (now Airbus Helicopters) and as a Flight Test Technician (1981-1985) at the Aerospace Engineering Test Establishment while serving in the Canadian Armed Forces.

Currently, Peter works as an educational consultant through Beens Consulting, focusing on data science and the practical application of Artificial Intelligence in the classroom.

Throughout his career, Peter's community and professional contributions have included leadership and advisory roles as Chair of the OTF Curriculum Forum Steering Committee, president of the Association for Computer Studies Educators (ACSE), Secretary-Treasurer for Royal Canadian Legion Branch 138, and an executive member of Chapter 22 (Niagara) of ARM (Active Retired Members). He has also served as the Social Convener for the Niagara BMW Riders Association and contributed to organizations such as WordPress Niagara and Cyber-Seniors.

His interests include computing, programming, AI, photography, playing bass guitar, exploring in his old Sprinter van, and long-distance adventure motorcycling.