Have you ever wondered what you could learn from a computer pioneer? You'll have your chance to find out when Michael Dell rolls into town for a free speaking engagement at Convocation Hall later this month. Okay, so Dell isn't exactly a pioneer: he's famous not for inventing anything, but merely for improving the process of assembling a bunch of parts into a serviceable computer, shipping it somewhere, and making a boatload of money while causing relatively few fires and explosions along the way.

In addition to sleepy students looking for their early-morning psychology lecture, there will undoubtedly be some attendees hoping for tips on a get-rich-quick scheme. Others will be looking for insight into the past and future of the industry that Dell helped to shape. We'll be there, waiting for some disgruntled Mac fans to show up to heckle the man who once famously said of poorly-performing Apple that he'd "shut it down and give the money back to the shareholders." No word yet on whether Steve Jobs will be in the audience, but it seems doubtful.

Michael Dell will be sharing his experience from the past and outlook for the future in a free talk at Convocation Hall at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 27. Tickets to the free event are available through UofTtix in Hart House or online.

Photo courtesy of Dell.