Randy has been at the college forever (okay…not forever, but a long time!), but goes about his business very quietly. Efficiently, effectively, quickly, but quietly, so I thought it was time we all get to know him a little bit better.
Randy Babb
What brought you to CC?
I was a CC hockey fan before coming to CC and when I saw an ad in the paper for an electronic technician position, I was excited to apply. I had just finished up technical school two months earlier and had no experience, but I must have made an impression during my interview because I got the job.
How long have you worked here?
27 years in August.
Give a brief description of what it is you do here.
My new title is “Lead Smart Space Innovator” What I do direct from my JAQ: I provide innovation, design, and integration oversight of college-wide AV support including smart spaces design including classrooms, administrative spaces, arenas, theaters, and presentation rooms. This position provides expert level focus on the design and oversight of the implementation of innovative complex audio-visual systems, video-conferencing equipment, and network connected multi-media devices. This position oversees, consults, and is responsible for the recommendations and purchasing for all smart spaces/av integrated capital equipment requests. This position coordinates with vendors for all purchasing and support with related equipment and works closely with others in Innovative Technology and the ITS:Team.
Hope that wasn’t too dry, but why waste good verbiage.
What’s your ITS: word (or words) and why?
Innovation & Ingenuity. Innovation because that is the group I am now a part of and innovation is our core mission. Ingenuity really speaks to how I solve problems and create designs for AV systems on campus. The definition of Ingenuity I like is: skill or cleverness that allows someone to solve problems, invent things, etc.
Who’s your hero and why?
Everyone that serves or has served in the US armed forces. Especially those who have given their lives for the freedoms we enjoy every day.
What sound or noise do you love?
The sound of a breeze blowing through pine trees, as it reminds of my Grandpa’s homestead in New Mexico.
What sound or noise do you hate?
The sound of woodpeckers pecking holes through the front of my house.
Name one or two of your hobbies.
Photography. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/f8photographics
I also like riding trails in the mountains on my motorcycle.
When others describe you, what do they say?
Not sure what people say, but I know Sean thinks I’m MacGyver, as I frequently pull off minor miracles. I guess that is because I don’t give up on a problem easily and I have a lot of diverse skills and knowledge.
If you could have a super-power, what would it be?
I googled superpowers and came up with two that I really liked:
Superhuman mentality and/or Time manipulation
1) Superhuman mentality: the ability to have an intelligence quotient far above that of a genius level. This ability can be so evolved that its user can gain psychic abilities (psychokinesis, telepathy, etc.) and resist both mind control and other psionic attacks.
2) Time manipulation: the ability to affect the flow of time by slowing, accelerating, reversing, or stopping it.
How would you use that super-power in ITS:?
If the network were to go down… I could stop time, fix it myself, and there would be no drop in service.
Thanks so much for taking the time to be interviewed, Randy! We are so glad you are a part of the ITS:Team. Be sure to let me know when you are able to manipulate time…I think I’d like to slow everything down just a little bit!
ITS:Always fun, never boring
Respectfully submitted,
Linda Petro
