Focus on Staff With Steve Mullins

When we heard Steve Mullins, an IT analyst in the department of psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience, described as "the most customer service-oriented IT person that has probably ever existed,” we knew he’d be a perfect subject for "Focus on …” Not surprisingly, he was agreeable to answering our questions.

How long have you worked in your current department and at UC?
"I have been with the department of psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience for nearly eight years. I started in the department of environmental health at the beginning of 2004, through the Cincinnati State co-op program. Then about a year later an IT analyst position with the department of psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience opened up, and I took it."

What is a typical day for you?
"A typical day starts with making sure our servers are properly functioning and the previous night’s  backups were successful. Besides that, every day is different. I support about 150 machines around East Campus. I could be helping people with Microsoft office questions, troubleshooting computer issues, setting up new users and computers, maintaining network printers, performing computer upgrades and patching computers with the latest security updates and virus scanners, plus many other tasks. On top of all that, I also maintain the department’s websites and set up audiovisual equipment for department meetings and lectures."

What do you enjoy about your job?
"I really enjoy solving problems and being part of the computer industry, which is constantly evolving and presenting new challenges. It is a perfect fit for me. I also enjoy helping people and making their jobs easier. I usually leave the office every day with something new I have learned or encountered."

As an IT person, what are your toughest challenges?
"Keeping up with all the newest technologies and the latest computer security threats is always a challenge."

Before you came to UC, what was your background?
"I have always had an interest in technology. When I was young I messed around with old computer parts, trying to make a computer. My first computer job was at my high school. I worked as a student helper to our IT administrator during my study halls and after school. After I graduated, I attended Cincinnati State Technical and Community College for network administration and computer support where I received an Associate’s Degree and my A+ certification."

Do you have any hobbies?
"I like hiking and being outdoors, listening to music, playing with my three dogs Conner, Maggie and Chloe, and skateboarding."

Tell us something people may not know about you.
"I have a Black Belt in American Kenpo."

Focus On highlights faculty, staff, students and researchers at the UC Academic Health Center. To suggest someone to be featured, please email uchealthnews@uc.edu.