About CTF Services

If you are deciding whether or not CTF Services can supply educational ebooks that are up to your requirements, then reading below about the qualifications of the ebook author should soon make you smile. These aren't online computer ebooks written by a self promoting 'expert', but computing e-books written by a person with over 30 years experience in computers and computer networking, with qualifications that stand up anywhere in the world.

Nick Thorne is the Owner and Director of CTF Services Ltd, a Training and ICT Consultancy business which has has been in place since April 1993. CTF Services has its primary focus on computer education, computer training, computer publications, computer ebooks, and International certification consultancy.

Nick believes that education is the key to self improvement, and continues to study himself as well as already holding the following qualifications:

(B.Sc, BICT, Dip Tchg, NZCE, MCP (6 exams), MCT, A+, Network +, Numerous Courses and Technical Skills, Dip Small Bus, AMNZCS)

He has studied at the following institutions Victoria University, Canterbury University, CPIT (Christchurch Polytechnic and Institute of Technology), Massey University, Wellington Polytechnic, NZ Technical Correspondence Institute, RNZAF, IBM, and Microsoft, as well as holding various teaching positions, as high as principal and numerous Head of Dept. positions at the National Institute of Studies, Aoraki Polytechnic, Hutt Valley Polytechnic, Wellington Community Education, Kapiti College Night Classes, Manawatu Polytechnic, and Whitireia Polytechnic.

Nick also looked after the training needs of up to 700 people for Databank Systems Limited, was the senior operator for the National Bank Service Centre, was the computer shift leader for the Ministry of Defence, and spent time with the RNZAF working on communications as well as mainframes.

As a tutor, Nick is so serious about the knowledge that he is going to pass on to you (the student) that he has even created his own pledge. This can be read below. For overseas visitors to this website, Mt Aoraki (also known as Mt Cook) is the highest mountain in New Zealand.

Majestic Aoraki is a most awe inspiring site.

My pledge to you, the student

• To help you with your "Learning Climb" which is like scaling the heights of Mt Aoraki.
• There are times when you will be stretched beyond your comfort zone, and there will be other days when the upward journey seems difficult (just like bad weather on the mountain).

Aoraki is not the easiest challenge.
There are many easier, but less rewarding climbs.

Remember the words of Winston Churchill
- "Never, Never give up."

If you are willing to learn, and willing to work, then I am willing to be your guide in your learning climb.

The view from the peak is even more awe inspiring than the view from the lake. One day, you will reach the top, if you follow the right path, and have the right self belief.

Nick Thorne

Director of CTF Services