An Interview with Our Director of IT, Ryan Lindgren

Q. How has IT changed during your career?

A: In many ways I think that the term “technology” is synonymous with change. IT has changed in many ways throughout my career, from devices accessing a centralized mainframe, dial-up connections to the Internet and, phrases like “You’ve got mail”. Unlike in the early days, it is hard to imagine a world now without WiFi, smartphones, and high-speed internet connections. We are so dependent today on information technology to go about our daily personal and professional lives. I think one of the biggest changes is just how many technologies are now available and the multiple ways that they are used to communicate. With the challenges we have faced in 2020, there is an accelerated shift to utilize platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and GoToMeeting in order to stay connected with our co-workers, family, and friends. Additionally, the ever-increasing challenges of maintaining strong technology security are extensive and constantly expanding.

Q. What do you like best about working in Information Technology?

A: One thing I enjoy about technology is finding the right solution or technology that best meets a demand, need, or requirement and that adds value to an organization or even to someone personally. I also enjoy the variety of challenges that I am faced with and the process of working through them. Sometimes working in IT is primarily about managing frustration, if I can help others and be proactive and reduce their frustration, I feel successful.

Q: What are you looking forward to most?

A: I look forward to working alongside team members to help bring technology into alignment with our goals and objectives in order to bring value to CDS and our clients.

Q. What do you like to do in your spare time?

A: I am a big fan of being outdoors, fishing, camping, watching my kids in their athletic pursuits, and spending time with my family and friends.

Q. How do you stay up-to-date with trends in the technology industry?

A: I like to read technology/IT related articles and follow a few blogs among other IT resources that help me to keep up with current technology trends. Since technology is constantly changing and evolving, I like to stay up-to-date on my training as well. I am also a member of the 451 Alliance, which is a global IT think tank.

See Ryan’s Full Bio