Meet Adam Skibbe, the new President of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Staff Council. As a Senior Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Administrator, Adam brings a wealth of technical expertise and innovative thinking to the role. With a passion for technology and education, he not only excels in his profession but also serves as an instructor, sharing his knowledge with the next generation. Adam's unique blend of skills and dedication positions him as a dynamic leader who is committed to advancing the goals of the CLAS community and fostering collaboration among staff members. I asked him to mention some information regarding his new position where appropriate.

Q: Job Role at the University:
Senior GIS Administrator – CLAS / GSS and CLAS Staff Council President

Adam acts as the default point of contact for GIS related questions on (the academic side of) campus. Adam is involved in overseeing GIS software licensing, contributing to leadership on campus for the GIS group, running the GIS lab, and teaching courses. 

Q: How long you have been at the University:
Adam has been at the University of Iowa for just over 11 years, starting in 2013. 

Q: Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in your field?
Adam was a student at the University of Iowa before returning in 2013 to work. He was originally hired to run the GIS lab in the geography department, which involved overseeing the lab space and mentoring students. Over time, his role expanded to include leadership on campus for the GIS group, overseeing GIS software licensing, and teaching courses. 

Q: What types of research happens in your department?
The department focuses on geographic information systems (GIS), mapping, and geographic analysis. 

Q: How does this research affect the lives of Iowans, or the general population, in ways that might not be obvious to an outside observer?
The research in GIS and geographic analysis can have broad applications, including urban planning, environmental monitoring, and resource management, which can significantly impact the lives of Iowans and the general population by providing data-driven insights and solutions. 78

Q: How does your personal work support these research efforts?
Adam supports these research efforts by overseeing the GIS lab, managing GIS software licensing, contributing to leadership on campus for the GIS group, and teaching courses that help train the next generation of GIS professionals.

Q: What are some of the biggest goals your team is working towards (focus on CLASS Staff Council)?
The team aims to improve the effectiveness of the CLAS Staff Council by documenting processes, setting clear goals, and ensuring smooth transitions for future Council members. 

We also aim to be more proactive and intentional with our presence, finding opportunities proactively to engage our constituents and their needs.

Q: What inspired you to pursue this career?
While studying archaeology at the university of Iowa (1998-2002) I was introduced to GIS as an option to expand my understanding of spatial patterns.  It originally started as learning a tool on the side, but I quickly (almost immediately) shifted gears to make GIS the focus of my education/career. 

Q: Why the University of Iowa?
I grew up in Coralville/Iowa City, went to West, went to the University of Iowa for Undergrad.  My mother used to work for UIHC.  The university is very much like coming home.

Q: Can you share a particularly memorable moment or achievement in your career?
Honestly, I felt like coming back to the University of Iowa was a significant achievement.  It was a proud moment for me to be able to come back and help contribute to an institution that I had so much history with. 

Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, and how did you overcome them?
One of the challenges I faced was the transition of his role from being department-specific to a college-wide IT position. This involved taking on additional responsibilities such as overseeing GIS software licensing and contributing to campus leadership for the GIS group. 

Q: Can you discuss any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
I am focused on improving the effectiveness of the Class Staff Council by documenting processes, setting clear goals, and ensuring smooth transitions for future Council members.