Spotlight on Staff: Rick Held

by Cheri Plavnick, Radical Generosity Committee

Rick Held is First U’s Manager of Information and Technology. He began volunteering at First U in 2012 when our systems were fairly simple.  In 2021, as our systems became more complex, he was hired as a part-time employee.  In just 15 hours per week, Rick accomplishes a huge amount of technical support!

Because I, the author am a non-techie, the following is mostly direct quotes from Rick:  “I manage the network, including access to programs and data on our servers, computers, workstations, laptops and printers, campus wireless network, supporting major applications such as Microsoft 365 and our PowerChurch accounting system.”

He continues, “…supporting the network, including access to programs and data on our servers and in the cloud.  Computers, workstations, laptops and printers.   Campus wireless network, Sanctuary Audio and Video control computers, IT systems and service vendors including consultants as needed, telephone system which is network-based.  The Sanctuary Hearing Loop System and fiber internet service to campus.”

Rick trains our employees in the use of our equipment, programs and systems but doesn’t get involved in much of the actual operation of our systems and equipment.  For example, he says, “we have an excellent iMinistry audio and video team who, “exceed my skill level in executing their responsibilities.”

Rick said the most challenging aspect of his job is “incorporating new technology. Some of our equipment is older and requires higher levels of maintenance but upgrading must be done carefully to keep our IT systems functional in support of our employees and volunteers”

Rick, his wife, and two dogs live in an older home on two acres in Tijeras. Prior to the very recent passing of his 100 year old mom, in a nearby Assisted Living Facility, he was her primary cargiver.  Finally, Rick said, “I have no trouble finding things to do!”