Amrik Virk was appointed as Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens' Services, on December 18, 2014.  Previously he served as Minister of Advanced Education from June 2013, after being elected as MLA in the riding of Surrey-Tynehead in the 2013 Provincial General Election. In his current role, Virk has unveiled the BC Tech Strategy which includes a $100 million BC Tech Fund, and the introduction of coding to the K-12 curriculum. In addition, B.C.’s goal for 100% access to high-speed Internet for all British Columbians will create a strong foundation across the province to create jobs and business opportunities. Virk’s enthusiasm for the B.C. tech sector has earned him the moniker, “B.C. tech’s biggest cheerleader.”Born in India, Virk moved with his family to Williams Lake, B.C. when he was five years old.After the completion of a Bachelor of Arts Degree majoring in economics and history at Simon Fraser University he earned a black belt in taekwondo. Virk began his career of public service by joining the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in 1987. During his extensive career he served in various policing roles including sharpshooter with emergency response teams. He was part of over 115 tactical missions, many of them as a sniper. If he had you in his sights, it was too late to escape. He retired at the rank of inspector in 2013. Virk is a recipient of two bravery awards, including a Commissioner’s Commendation, as well as the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal and the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal.Virk spent six years on the board of directors of the Surrey Memorial Hospital Foundation and has served on various community boards.Virk lives in Surrey with his wife Jatinder. They have been married for more than 25 years and have three daughters; Maansi, Anisha and Jusleen – who won the bronze medal in competitive karate at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto.