Ward Ackerman (BFA - New Media '11), Systems Support Specialist II, IT Client Services

Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I grew up in the small town of Mackenzie, British Columbia before moving to Grande Prairie to complete a two-year degree in Digital Art. I was mainly focused on graphic design and digital filmmaking. Once completing the two-year degree there, I wanted to further my studies and transferred to the University of Lethbridge to complete a bachelor's degree in New Media. During this time I started part-time as a proctor with IT Services and slowly worked my way into a full-time position within the IT department at the University.

How long have you been at ULethbridge and what do you do here?
I was a student from 2007-2011 during which I started part-time as a proctor. I then moved into a student position with IT Client Services before becoming a full-time employee in the department in 2013. I provide front line support for IT issues on campus through in-person, email, phone and chat support, as well as print campus ID cards, process Scantron exams and other technical tasks.

What's the best part of your job?
I've always enjoyed troubleshooting and fixing things so the best part is the opportunity to approach new technical issues and find solutions for them. It's a bit like trying to solve a puzzle.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
In my personal time I like to play guitar, as well as write and record original music. This, combined with my technical skills, has led to me pursuing a hobby of repairing vintage audio gear such as tube amplifiers, guitar effects units and instruments.