IT Leadership Spotlight: Robert White, IT director, Office of Undergraduate Studies

Where are you from originally?

Morris Plains, New Jersey. I’ve been here so long, the accent is gone. I followed two of my sisters in the migration to Utah. My big sister, Cyd, moved out to go to the U to pursue a degree, then my younger sister, Carol, moved here to pursue her degree. I came out as my parents were moving across the country and Cyd said, “Come live with me. You can always move if you don’t like it.” That was 1990.

What certifications do you have?

I’ve pursued goal-based bootcamp tech training since I started at the U for Linux systems administration, security, Windows server administration, Mac administration, Cisco networking, MySQL database administration, and others. Besides curiosity, my training has always been to support, change, or improve initiatives or services directly related to the training topics.

What led you to the University of Utah?

A career path in graphic design and natural geeky disposition for upgrading computers. I applied for positions in design twice and didn’t get selected. Then an entry-level position was available for Continuing Education’s IT team. A primary role was supporting the University Marketing & Communications team that was completely Mac-based. It’s like I accidentally tripped and fell in the right direction. I found I was more talented and driven to pursue IT support than graphic design. I found my dream job in the form of the entry-level network grunt (computer tech).

Can you describe the path you took to IT leadership?

I like the challenge of taking on more responsibility — it’s like a genetic trait in my family. I started as a computer tech, took on server administration, then network security, and when the opportunity was presented where I could take on the role of managing the IT team at Continuing Education, I was intimidated by the additional responsibilities. That was actually a motivator as I’ve historically viewed myself as a bit shy and jumping outside of my comfort zone would make me grow as a person. I can’t say I’m shy anymore and I’m happy I took the leap as I like where I am today.

How would you describe your leadership style and/or philosophy?

This one’s tough. I live by two buzz phrases — “be your own best advocate” and “the answer is no if you don’t ask.” I do my best to represent the colleges I support and pursue what I think is in their best interests along with overall institutional goals. It’s surprising how many times I’ve asked for something thinking the answer would be no and instead I’d get yes in response, and something I needed.

What do you enjoy most about your role at the U?

In between meetings, budgets, etc., I get to play with toys for a living. Wow. After 26 years, working in tech has not gotten old. I still look forward to solving problems, automating processes, and teaching my team how to do things with which I have experience.

What do you find most challenging about your job?

Honestly, the most difficult thing is to provide services when you aren’t given appropriate time to plan. That has turned into providing better task management tools and processes in my departments to improve communication between staff and IT.

What are some of your hobbies?

I’m a competitive gamer. I play mostly Apex Legends at the moment. I love cooking and have catered a few events. I love owning a home and remodeling. I do most of the things people hire contractors for. I love designing a renovation and then framing, wiring, installing sheetrock, and so on. I love the sense of satisfaction that comes from creating something myself.

Is there a fun fact about yourself that you’d like to share?

I was a daredevil as a kid. I raced BMX bikes in my teens. Racing was fun. Bike stunts and jumping over whatever you dared me to was kind of my jam. It took a few crashes to learn, but I could bunny hop over a galvanized trash can without a ramp.

Is there anything else that you think our readers would like to know about you?

I love working for the U. I arrived at my dream job the day I started here.

 

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