Becoming the trusted source of technology at the University of Michigan takes time, effort, and skill. Human beings are the center of that, with Colleen McCormick bridging the gap between customers and Information and Technology Services.
Since 2010, Colleen has helped countless people as a Customer Relationship Manager (CRM) for ITS.
“When I looked at this job, I thought, ‘Wow! This was written for me!’” Colleen said. “I never say I have technical skills, but if someone needs help with finding people? I can connect people there. It’s an honor to represent all the great people at ITS that do the real work. But I really enjoy the fact that I get to go out and meet and understand units.”
Colleen McCormick stands in front of the pyramids in Egypt with her hand on the top like she’s holding it.
Those connections have proved invaluable to the organization. Sharing the right information at the right time has helped ITS and units across all U-M campuses collaborate on efforts.
“I can bring you information from units about things you may not be aware of or remember,” Colleen said. “We can say we have project managers working on these projects, but having the knowledge of all of these simultaneous efforts, I can advocate for ITS and for the units.”
Colleen has mastered relationship building. Her abilities helped bring the Ann Arbor campus onto the same wired and WiFi networks early in her career, bringing everyone across campus a seamless internet connection.
“I’ve said many a time that I have the best job in this place,” she said. “We were building the capabilities for what’s needed. We’ve morphed over time based on services we offer and organizational changes.”
Working across the organization meant getting involved with the Michigan Technology Community. Colleen stepped into a leadership position as a Spotlight Committee Chair, showcasing technology around the university through outreach and collaboration with administrators and IT leaders across campus. This effort keeps everyone on the same page through multiple ways and helps move IT forward at U-M.
“I’m really proud of the fact that there are people on campus that will meet with me for an hour,” Colleen said. “You bring something to the table and take their feedback. I appreciate the gift of feedback, good and bad.”
Colleen is retiring soon, with plans to travel the world and continue connecting with people all over. Her recent travels have included Egypt, Greece, and South America. As she moves into the next phase of her life, Colleen keeps one piece of advice her first boss gave her.
“Be flexible and keep your sense of humor,” she said. “Both of those have been super helpful.”
If you are interested in getting involved in the Community Spotlight Committee, email [email protected] for more information.
