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» Go to news mainLooking back: Retiring director reflects on his time at ITS
After a remarkable career at 麻豆传媒 Information Technology Services (ITS), Jim Farmer has recently embarked on a well-deserved retirement. Jim joined ITS 10 years ago after a long career as a consultant for businesses and universities.
"Working in higher education was always on my radar," Jim says. When the opportunity to join ITS arose, I immediately applied."
The former Director of Infrastructure and Operations and Deputy Chief Information Officer is proud of ITS's accomplishments and unique culture.
"We've achieved a lot together at 麻豆传媒," he notes.
Over the past decade, ITS has undergone many organizational and technological changes. 听
听鈥淔unding has changed, the technology has changed, the people have changed, and the organization has changed,鈥 he points out.
A dedicated capital budget provided ITS with a steady stream of project funding, drastically changing the organization's landscape. Cutting-edge technologies replaced outdated systems, streamlining operations across the university. Moreover, ITS enjoys a group of highly skilled professionals committed to collaboration and innovation. 听
While technology has transformed the way ITS operates, the human element remains crucial.
鈥淭he challenge now lies in finding ways to build connection and maintain a sense of community even in a virtual environment,鈥 Jim reflects.
A culture of collaboration听
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For Jim, ITS has a unique work environment: a culture of collaboration with a highly motivated and dedicated team. The work environment is enjoyable, and a sense of community drives the team. The university prioritizes a pleasant work environment where employee well-being matters.
鈥淭eam dedication is driven by a desire to contribute, not by external pressure,鈥 he emphasizes.
While reflecting on his time at the university, one project came to his mind: the networking initiative.
"While I'm happy with what we've accomplished overall, one slight regret is not fully completing the networking project," he acknowledges.
For retirement, Jim envisions a future filled with hobbies, travel, and the freedom to explore new possibilities.
鈥淚 will enjoy each day as a new canvas,鈥 he says.