Technology is constantly evolving, almost every aspect of human life has some form of technology incorporated. Humans are becoming more and more reliant on technology because of its convenience. Tim Rager, the new Executive Director of Information Technology (IT) at Everett Community College, sees the need for technology and asks the question of how EvCC can work with tech to simplify things on campus for students and faculty.

“One of the things we are trying to do is focus on the student experience. Part of how we do that is to take a look at the world around us and kind of acknowledge that the world has changed and is continuing to change dramatically,” says Rager, “How do we help students succeed in the world of today. How do we give them the information, the skillset, the tools and the data that is supplemental to the rest of their experience at the college.”

Rager since taking on his role in IT has been working to make sure the department is not only working to handle things operationally but also coming up with ways to help innovate and empower students and staff.

“Our focus is two sides to the same coin. One side is very operational, how do we make things run and run efficiently? And the other side is how do we increase innovation on campus? How do we do things new and different then we have before?” says Rager.

As for increased innovation, Rager has been a part of bringing two new pilot programs to campus, Amazon Alexa and Apple on Campus. Both programs are being tested in hopes of improving the student experience.

“We are trying to do things that are new and innovative that also help with the student experience, the Amazon Alexa being one of them. And Apple on campus allows us to give easy access for students to use Apple’s educational discount. But, what we hope to do in the future is to partner up with departments on campus to create easy to buy bundles that are relevant for that program or department” says Rager.

In terms of potential future projects, Rager also hopes to set up a tech hub, where students can learn and get help with technology. And he also hopes to become a certified Apple repair center, as well as eventually open an Apple store on campus.

In the next ten years, Rager would like to see in terms of the progression of technology on campus is that the college is digitally literate.

“I hope that in the future we feel empowered by technology, we’re not afraid of it. We’ve embraced it to the point where it helps the college find new and innovative ways to solve problems. It is important that we help to prepare students for the world around them and that they feel that they have a strong in-depth understanding of technology that they can use to solve problems,” says Rager, “I hope we can help students achieve their dreams and goals and really help them feel empowered with technology so that they can not only improve their lives but help to improve the lives of others.”