Chief Human Resources Manager Eric Seastedt had his first day at UA on Sept. 16, replacing interim officer Michelle Rizk. He brings UA 24 years of human resources experience in a wide variety of areas such as job classification and compensation, benefits, communications, diversity, labor relations, policy development and effective performance assessment to the position.

Prior to beginning at UA, Seasted was director of human resources and affirmative action at the State University of New York Cobleskill campus in upstate New York. Previous leadership positions have been with Great Basin College in Nevada, the University of Wyoming in Laramie and other organizations in upstate New York.

Welcome to Statewide Eric Seastedt!

Derek Ward
Started 8/25/13

Lead Operations Technician
OIT Data Center Operations

The Lead Operations Technician supervises and provides technical support for Data Center Operations staff, manages scheduling, coordinates installation of new computer systems and maintains security of the facility. Administration of check printing and CD/DVD production software, implementation of new technology and development of operating procedures are other areas of responsibility for this position.

Ward has been a computer operator in OIT Data Center Operations from Aug. 2008 to the present. He is currently working both Lead Operator and Computer Operator positions.

Derek Ward was born and raised in Fairbanks, Alaska and intends to maintain the interior as home. He attended the University of Alaska Fairbanks from 2004- 2008 where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on finance and Computer Information Systems. He graduated May 11, 2008.

When not working Ward spends time with his wife Tracy Ward and their three daughers Erica (4 years), Clare (3 years), and Taryn (2 years). Ward enjoys music and Ice Hockey in his free time.

Michael Spencer
Started 8/27/2013

Student assistant
OIT Data Center Operations

Michael Spencer will assist Data Center Operations staff in operation of the computer facility. Operations tasks include monitoring critical network, infrastructure and services in a 24x7 operation, in addition to new hardware installation and printer maintenance.

Spencer was born and Raised in Fairbanks Alaska. He attendedUAF/TVC earning an associate degree in Emergency services. He will receive a bachelor’s degree in psychology this fall. Currently, Spencer is� applying to physician assistant schools for academic year 2014.

Spencer is married and has three sons. He enjoys time with his family and outdoor activities. They love hockey and go to almost all the Nanooks games. GO NOOKS.