This post is part of our ongoing “Meet the Team” series, where we introduce the dedicated individuals who help shape and support the NH Writers’ Project (NHWP). Each conversation highlights the unique backgrounds, passions, and perspectives that make our community stronger.

Meet Ron Stokes, NHWP Treasurer, fiction writer, retired high-tech professional, and lifelong lover of words, music, and creative community.

Ron received an M.F.A. in fiction writing from the University of Massachusetts and spent more than 30 years working in the high-tech industry. Since retiring, he has returned to writing fiction, including a novel, novellas, short stories, and five children’s books written as gifts for his grandchildren. He also has a deep passion for music, particularly jazz, and plays saxophone and clarinet.

We asked Ron to share more about his writing life, his role on the NHWP board, and what he sees ahead for writers in New Hampshire.

What inspired you to join the NH Writers’ Project board?

After spending more than 30 years in the high-tech industry, I wanted the opportunity to socialize with fellow writers, as opposed to engineers and management types. NHWP offered a way to connect with people who care deeply about writing, books, craft, and creative community.

How has writing shaped your life and career?

I originally got into computers as a technical writer and editor. Even as I moved into other roles in engineering, services, instructional design, and marketing, I always saw myself first as a writer.

The skills I learned through writing — observing carefully, organizing ideas logically, and communicating clearly — served me in many different parts of my career.

What unique skills do you bring to your role as NHWP Treasurer?

For much of my career in high tech, I worked in management and operations. That included budgeting responsibilities, forecasting, managing costs, and, in some cases, generating revenue. Those experiences are especially useful in my role as Treasurer, where fiscal responsibility helps support NHWP’s long-term mission.

What do you see as the most important role NHWP plays for writers in New Hampshire?

NHWP gives writers multiple forums to come together as a community and learn different aspects of the craft of writing. That sense of connection is important. Writing can be solitary, but growing as a writer does not have to be.

What advice would you give to emerging writers who want to become more involved?

Take advantage of every opportunity to network, including participating in monthly Writers’ Night Out meetings. And never think you have the craft completely figured out.

There are always new things to learn, whether at a write-in, a workshop, a webinar, or the annual 603 Writers’ Conference.

What NHWP program are you especially passionate about?

The 603 Writers’ Conference is our crown jewel. It brings writers together for craft, conversation, learning, and connection in a way that reflects the heart of NHWP’s mission.

What’s something people might not expect about you?

I worked my way through college and part of graduate school as a surgical technician, or scrub nurse, in operating rooms in Baltimore, Maryland, and Greenfield, Massachusetts.

And if I had to choose a dream job outside of writing? Jazz musician.

Stay tuned for more posts in this series as we continue to introduce you to the incredible people behind NHWP.