Nikki Pittman: Problem solving and passion for education and lifelong learning to create successful outcomes

It was one of several college classes that set the focus for Nichole “Nikki” Pittman’s career.

“I first realized that I wanted to be an internal auditor when I was in the auditing class at UAF’s School of Management," said Pittman, UA’s Chief Audit Executive. “This was that class that connected everything I was learning in my business and accounting classes with my problem solving skills. Auditing has proven to be a challenging and rewarding career and I love every minute of it.”

Pittman graduated from UAF with an associates of applied science in information technology and a bachelor’s degree of administration in accounting. She is also a Certified Internal Auditor, Certified Information Systems Auditor, and Certified Fraud Examiner.

“I am passionate about higher education in part because I’m a first generation college graduate,” said Pittman. “College has its challenging moments, but it's always worth it. By graduating from UAF, I gave my children and grandchildren something to live up to by valuing higher education and learning.”

Pittman has been with UA’s internal audit department since December 2003. She started as an assistant internal auditor climbing the ladder from associate internal auditor to information systems auditor. Five years later Pittman became the chief audit executive.

“I worked for the State of Alaska Department of Transportation for almost 6 years before coming to UA,” said Pittman. “I enjoyed the experiences I gained, including a trip to Prudhoe Bay to visit all of the Northern Region state facilities between Prudhoe Bay and Fairbanks.”

Pittman now leads the Statewide Office of Audit and Consulting Services and ensures compliance with the Institute of Internal Auditors’ Professional Standards and the Government Auditing Standards. She is responsible for planning and leading the internal audit activities for the UA system. She is the liaison for external audit activities and provides guidance and counsel on internal controls, governance, risk and compliance.

Pittman also administers the UA Confidential Hotline and follows-up on tips and concerns related to fraud, waste and abuse of funds and resources. She helps the board of regents and university leadership in risk identification and mitigation.

“I enjoy working with all of the university activities and functions across the UA system,” said Pittman. “I especially enjoy working in an environment that provides lifelong benefits to students, has a positive impact in Alaskan communities, and is recognized for world class research.”

Pittman was born and raised in Fairbanks. She and her husband have six kids ranging from 8 to 25 years old, plus two granddaughters ages 1-1/2 and almost 1 year old. She is an avid party planner who is known for throwing elaborate birthdays and holidays celebrations. She also loves sightseeing, photography, and taking her family on travel adventures and experiences.