Interview with Nexigen Director of Operations Mike Camp

Mike Camp attended and graduated from Northern Kentucky University with a degree in information systems.  Mike has over 20 years of technology experience including work as a as database administrator with DBA direct then to Quest Diagnostic as a Senior Manager and eventually at TQL as an Application Support Manager.  Mike has over 10 years’ experience in technology leadership.

What inspired you to pursue a career in technology, and how did you get your start in the industry?
I started learning more and more about computers in high school, which continued to progress in college.  While in college I created many websites and learned about relational databases which led me to start my career as a SQL Server DBA.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a technology and operations leader, and how have you worked to overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges is adapting to the rapidly changing technical requirements and the environment in which they exist.  This keeps me apprised on new technologies and fuels my desire to never stop learning.  “Life is like riding a bicycle.  To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” – Albert Einstein

How do you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in technology, and what sources do you rely on for information?
Social Media, Tech Boards, the News, and staying connected w/ peers and those around you.  Be open to new ideas and/or ways of thinking.  If something sparks your interest, invest time in learning more about it and what benefits it may bring.

What do you think are the most important skills for a successful Leader in technology, and how have you developed those skills over time?
Humility – Understand your own shortcomings and see those as opportunities to be better.  Openly accept feedback and give credit to others.
Ownership – Be accountable for everything you do.  Admit to mistakes, fail fast and move forward.  Don’t let the shot you just took, affect the shots you’re about to take.
Willingness to Learn – take every experience as a learning opportunity.  When presented w/ the chance to learn or do something new, say Yes.

Can you tell us about a particularly innovative project or technology that you’re currently working on, and what impact you hope it will have?Previously, one of my main focuses was around Automation.  Find and eliminate Toil.  Toil is work directly tied to running a service that is repetitive and manual.  Find ways to insert automation and spend more time on actual value-added activities.

What advice would you give to aspiring technologists or future technology leaders, based on your own experiences in the industry?
Learn and practice active listening.  Before developing a solution to a problem, it is important to understand and think holistically about all aspects of what is being communicated to you.  Ask questions.  Make sure there is a mutual understanding of action items and outcomes.

How do you see technology evolving in the coming years, and what do you think will be the biggest opportunities and challenges for companies in this space?
I expect AI to evolve and be incorporated into many facets of everyday life and the way we conduct business.  Most users seek service options before reaching out to IT and AI has the potential to fill that need.  As technology involves, so does its security risks.  Security and the protection of data will become even more paramount.

Finally, can you share a little bit about your life outside of work, and how you like to spend your free time?
I enjoy spending time w/ my wife and 3 daughters as much as possible.  I’m also an avid Cincinnati Bengals and Reds fan.  I also like playing sports and relaxing w/ friends either around a fire or playing cornhole and enjoying the weather.