Information Technology Group (ITG)

inside western banner

 This Q&A series offers an opportunity for the Western Engineering community to learn more about the incredible staff across the faculty and the outstanding work they do. 

Meet the Information Technology Group (ITG) located in the Amit Chakma Engineering Building (ACEB) Room 2425.

itg-iwe 

Most folks have a perception about what IT support is – fixing issues, providing guidance, supporting technology and so forth – and of course, the team does all those tasks.  However, where the team really shines is in enabling and implementing innovative technology and processes.  Engineering is such a diverse faculty with unique needs and wants. We are proud to partner in Engineering’s success. 

-- Ron Farren, Associate Director, ITG 

Team Members

Help Desk, Client Support Specialist

  • Matthew Mitchell
  • Anthony Moon

On-Site Technology Support, Technical Support Specialist

  • Adis Castillio
  • Tim Siemens

Application Development, System Administrator

  • David Lee
  • Ali Nursal

Infrastructure Systems, System Administrator

  • Andrew Donkersgoed

What do you enjoy most about your work at Western Engineering?

Anthony Moon: I enjoy the variety of work I complete. I’m able to join challenging projects and work on tasks beyond what my current role requires. I get to experience what other roles offer, and this experience helps guide my professional development.

What's your go-to way to unwind or relax after a busy day?

David Lee: Since I’m on the computer all day, I unwind by completely unplugging for an hour and going to the gym, doing yoga, or going for a long walk with Finn (my Bichon Frise).

Do you have a favourite team-building activity or memory with your colleagues?

Ron Farren: My favourite team-building activity is watching the FISH! video and then helping the team embrace the FISH! Philosophy. Besides being an interesting/funny video, it helps to build teamwork: "play," "be there," "make their day," and "choose your attitude."

Can you share a personal accomplishment or milestone you're proud of outside of work?  

Adis Castillio: I am most proud of my solo journey to Canada from Colombia in search of a better life, not only for myself, but also to help my family through their struggles in our homeland. Since arriving 15 years ago, and not speaking a word of English, I’ve studied and practiced endlessly to become comfortable speaking English. I have been able to work in my field of study for an employer I am proud of, and I’ve been fortunate enough to fulfill my dreams of helping to support my family while building a life of my own in my new home.

Can you share a fun or interesting fact about yourself that your colleagues might not know? 

Matthew Mitchell: I’m blind in my right eye. I’ve never had sight in that eye, so I don’t really know any different.

Can you share a fun or interesting fact about your hometown or where you grew up?

Ali Nursal: I grew up in Tarsus, which is in Turkey. In my hometown, there are some historical places such as the Ancient Roman Road, St. Paul's Well, and Cleopatra Gate (where the most famous lovers in history, Mark Anthony and Cleopatra, first met).

Are there any books, movies, or TV shows you're obsessed with?

Andrew Donkersgoed: I love any Epic Fantasy series.  My all-time favourite is the Malazan Book of the Fallen series.

What's your favourite type of cuisine or comfort food?

Tim Siemens: I can’t turn down a good Shawarma, but if I want to cook myself, I’ll make some Mexican street tacos.