UIT Leadership Spotlight: John Nielson, manager, Application Platform Support Services

Where are you from originally?

I was raised in Spring Glen, Utah. When I was 19, I moved to Oklahoma, where I lived for 17 years.

What post-secondary degrees or certifications do you have, in what subjects, and from which schools?

I have a Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University (Go Pokes!) in business education, with a lot of work in computer science.

What led you to the University of Utah?

I came to the University of Utah from Salem, Oregon, as the director for Technology Services at Willamette Education Service District. My wife and I wanted to return to Utah to be closer to our children and their families. I was specifically interested in the University of Utah as I had worked here before and loved the environment and people.

Can you describe the path you took to IT leadership?

My path to leadership came from wanting to be a teacher and help kids. I taught computer programming, the Microsoft suite, network administration, and webpage creation to high school students for 3½ years and then moved into administration to better serve students in technology.

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

If you make a mistake, own it and move on. If you don’t know something, say you don’t know, and let's find an answer together! Family first!

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

I love the organization and people at the U. This is a great place to work, and the people are incredible.

What do you find most challenging about your job?

The most challenging part of my job is understanding the complexity of the university community. It is amazing how vast the university is and how each group plays a critical role in supporting it.

What are some of your hobbies?

Sports, basketball, football, anything Oklahoma State is involved in, and the U, of course! 😊 Family, also. I am married with four children and 14 grandchildren.

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

I was a basketball player at Oklahoma State University, and I am 6 feet 9 inches tall!

 

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