The Division of IT is responsible for campus communications to over 85,000 campus members. This requires a dedicated team of web, communications, and graphic design professionals. Who leads this team and ensures its efficiency? Meet Texas A&M Associate Director of IT, Lacey Baze.

What is your role/job and what do you do at the Division of IT?

LB: Howdy! I lead the Product Strategy & Communications team, which manages all web, communications, and graphics for the Division of IT. Our goal is to ensure campus members know about campus IT services and promote cybersecurity. We work very hard to make websites user-friendly and accessible. Our team is filled with amazingly talented and innovative creatives who push the envelope and seek to stand out from the crowd.

What is something that you want people to know about your work?

LB: Communicating technical information in an understandable, impactful way is my favorite challenge! Our team is unique for IT because we don't have technical degrees, which actually makes us better-suited for our role. The average person doesn't call their computer a "machine" or a backup system a "redundant failover path." We edit messages so everyone can understand them.

What does a typical work day look like for you?

LB: I am fortunate to have a team of extremely talented professionals who produce innovative, high-quality work. My main role is to be the final set of eyes on everything our team puts out. We're working on 100+ operational activities and projects at a time - most days I'm answering questions, giving feedback and removing roadblocks. I also work closely with campus IT professionals to ensure they are receiving the information they need to do their work.

How is IT different at A&M than other places/universities?

LB: Texas A&M is HUGE! The IT infrastructure and resources needed to support the largest student body and third largest physical campus in the nation are jaw-dropping. I've been here a while and noticed that every new leader comes to that realization quickly since A&M is almost always bigger than where they worked before.

What is something that you'd like students to know about IT at A&M?

LB: We are here for you! Our highest priority is to provide you with the tools and resources you need to be successful. When you speak, we listen! Please let us know if you have ideas or feedback about IT. Also, please forward all suspicious emails to helpdesk@tamu.edu - I can't let a good opportunity to promote cybersecurity go to waste. ;)

What does it mean to you to be a "Face of IT" or "Face of the Division of IT"?

LB: I take that role seriously and know that people rely on my team to provide the information they need to succeed. I also take pride in being a female leader in a traditionally male field and hope that inspires others to do the same.