Aaron Schmidt is the new Technology Support Technician with the UNC Lineberger Cancer Network. He has over seven years of experience working with UNC in various research, regulatory, and technical support roles, along with three years of experience supporting a learning management system focusing on health and human services. In his most recent position, Aaron served as the UNC Library’s Media Production & Instruction Technician. He assisted thousands of students, staff, and faculty with learning how to work with media and troubleshooting issues with their media projects.
I recently interviewed Aaron for a chance for all of you to get to know him.
Aaron, how many years have you been employed at UNC and where did you start?
I’ve been a UNC employee for a little over 7 years in total. I joined the organization in 2011 as a research technician in the Division of Laboratory Animal Medicine (DLAM) [now the Division of Comparative Medicine (DCM)] and then spent some time with our EHS department. I left for a few years to work at an LMS company but returned in 2017 to contribute to our library system in a tech support role, and have just recently joined the UNCLCN team.
What’s the most exciting part of your new position with the UNC Lineberger Cancer Network?
It’s hard to pick just one! I’m excited to join this team of fantastic people and help use technology to make a positive difference in the health outcomes of our NC community. I’m starting to get a sense of the incredible telehealth offerings that are available and am looking forward to learning more.
Is there something you find challenging about your new responsibilities?
So far, it’s been an incredible deluge of information, so I’m mostly focusing on listening attentively and taking copious notes. Onboarding while working remotely has also offered new challenges, but everyone has been generous with their time and assistance, and I’m working to quickly get up to speed on everything.
What motivates you at work?
In short, helping others. I greatly enjoy working in support roles and helping making things “just work” for folks or otherwise improving their situations.
What do you do when you are not at work?
I enjoy playing guitar with a few different bands, playing games, lifting weights, and reading science fiction. In the last year while being home a lot, I’ve also discovered an affinity for cooking shows which feels odd since I don’t cook very much! (I’m pretty good at cleaning up afterwards though)
Who inspires you?
I try to be inspired by everyone in one way or another and particularly value seeing those who exhibit mindfulness and understanding towards others. I’m reluctant to pick a specific individual, but I’m sure you could spin a wheel of various Stoic or Buddhist thinkers and land on someone I appreciate in that way.
Do you have any pets?
My partner and I moved in together a few years ago and she brought along two cats, Gojira and Friendly Cat. They’re not the most effective coworkers in a work-from-home situation, but they’re doing their best.
What’s your favorite memory?
Buying my first guitar many years ago and having the person I bought it from show me how to play Iron Man by Black Sabbath (albeit incorrectly). This was followed by several weeks of me doing absolutely nothing but playing it over and over and over again.
Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
I am most definitely an introvert, but I can flip the extrovert switch on when necessary.
If you could have a career in anything, what would it be?
If I could make a healthy and reliable living just by playing guitar, I wouldn’t say no to it. I do quite enjoy supplementing musical activities by working to help folks with technology, which I’m fortunate enough to be doing now.
What three items would you take with you to a deserted island?
A guitar, plenty of fresh water, and a viable method to signal for a rescue.
What’s the best book you’ve read recently?
Recursion, by Blake Crouch.
What’s a perfect day for you?
Waking up without an alarm, getting in a good workout and meal or two, and playing a show with one of my bands.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our subscribers?
Only to reiterate that I’m excited to join the team!
Aaron’s skills and talents are a great addition to our team. We are all happy and excited about his inputs and contribution to the UNC Lineberger Cancer Network. Please join us in welcoming Aaron! He can be reached at saaron@email.unc.edu.
Welcome aboard, Aaron!