Lawrence studied Psychology and Computer Science at the University of Guelph, graduating in 1985.  Initially, the idea was to study dolphin intelligence, but upon graduation Lawrence found a job in the computer industry, taking his hobby and making it a career.   Initially working for a company providing "U-Compute" services called The Computing Experience and then a library consulting firm, M.E. Phipps and Associations, where he specialized in library information software, such as Inmagic, and data conversion.  Here, he developed The Data Magician which was used around the world to convert data between incompatible systems.  This software was licensed to Inmagic Inc as "The Multi Adaptor".  

In 1991 Lawrence began working for a large library systems company called Dynix, which specialized in public libraries including such clients as Toronto Public Library, New York Public Library and Hong Kong Public Library.  Here Lawrence began working with linux-based systems including IBM RS/6000, HP and Sun.  Lawrence worked as a trainer and technical support specialist.

In 2003, Lawrence moved on to the University of Waterloo as Manager of Research Computing Support.  He started with a team of 2 staff and eventually grew the team to approximately 10 people including co-op students.  UW afforded him huge opportunities for knowledge growth and professional development.  He learned to appreciate the important history that the University of Waterloo has played in the world of Computer Science and, in 2008, that led him to begin working on establishing a Computer Museum.  Lawrence teamed up with Professor Scott Campbell whose area of research is the history of computing technology and science in Canada.

In 2012, Lawrence became involved with the UW Staff Association as a Director and, later, Treasurer.  In November 2019, Lawrence became the President of the Staff Association and held the position through the difficult pandemic period.  

Upon retirement in 2022, the School of Computer Science provided space and budget for the Computer Museum.  Lawrence works at the Museum most Tuesdays when not travelling.

Lawrence has 4 children and 5 grandchildren.  He is also a drummer in 3 bands, including Radio Memories.