Broken laptop? He can fix that. Internet down? No problem. For any of your technology needs, Nathan Robbins is ready to save the day.
An experienced professional in the field of technology, Robbins plays a crucial role in the Ole Miss community.
“I work in the Office of Information Technology here at Ole Miss. I am second-tier and do a lot of server work, as well as desktop support,” he said.
The Office of Information Technology, located in Weir Hall, is the source for students and faculty members to identify and repair any technological issues they may have. With various computer classes, students have the opportunity to learn about the latest technological developments, including products of the future.
One of these upcoming products is Apple’s new Mountain Lion, scheduled for release this summer.
“I think it will be a great new operating system. It seems to add a ton of features that iPad and iPhone users love directly to the desktop or laptop experience,” he said.
As far the Mountain Lion’s success, Robbins said that it is all about the consumers. Whether people enjoy technology for its features or for the ability to control their own experience, it is important to consider both sides. This is an aspect that Robbins believes Apple tends to do well, but there is always room for improvement.
“Apple seems to typically try and balance the appeal of their products to these two audiences, but in some cases (and some opinions) goes a little too far with making things simple to use. In other words, to power users it sometimes seems they are taking away functionality and control and replacing it with a pretty interface that works for "most" people,” he said.
Since the Mountain Lion is not yet available, Robbins added that time will tell how it is received and how its features and “enhancements” will appeal to users.
Adapting to new technology may be a struggle for some, but for Robbins the transition comes naturally.
“I’ve had a pretty extensive background with technology of all types,” he said. “I also own a computer business in town and previously worked as a Network / Security Engineer for the Army Corps of Engineers.”
Originally from Pontotoc, Miss., Robbins majored in Electrical Engineering at Mississippi State University. After working for the Army Corps of Engineers in Vicksburg, he moved to Oxford and started his own computer business.
While he may be an expert in the field of technology, Robbins also has a passion for the music industry.
“I…play in several local bands, some of which have toured all over the US and overseas. I also am one of the original organizers and co-directors of the Oxford Music Festival, which was recently held here in town. I've always had interests in technology and music, and even have a small recording studio here in town,” he said.
As an active contributor to both technology and music, Robbins is able to stay up to date with the fast-paced world and its frequent changes. As far as where those changes will lead, Robbins says that it is almost impossible to know.
“I think it is difficult to predict where technology, as a whole, is headed. In the 80s, everyone said there would be time travel, flying cars, and all kinds of outrageous stuff in the 2000s. But technology will always be an integral part of our lives, and as we evolve I think it will continue to evolve with us.”
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