• Name: Juan E. Gilbert, Ph.D.
• Hometown: Hamilton, Ohio
• Where do you work? Auburn University
• What is your current job? Associate Professor
• Hobbies: Fishing, Weight Lifting

We appreciate you taking the time to serve as a role model for young people considering a possible degree and career in computing and IT.

Tell us about ...

1. Were you interested in computing and information technology in middle school and high school?
   Not really. We didn't have very much programming in high school. I took a BASIC programming class in high school, but it wasn't very interesting.
2. How did you become interested in the computing and information technology field?
   I took a programming class in college and I was pretty good at it. Later, I discovered that computing and IT graduates made good money straight out of college. Therefore, I declared my major in computing.
3. In a couple of sentences, describe your area of study.
   I am an Associate Professor in the Computer Science & Software Engineering Department at Auburn University. In my job, I teach computing courses in human-computer interaction, databases and programming. However, I spend most of my time doing research. Research means I get to investigate problems and conduct experiments using computers and people to address those problems.
4. Above all else, what excites you about the computing and IT field?
   Innovation and change. Our field is constantly changing, which presents new problems. I enjoy solving problems and this field never grows dull.
5. In your opinion, what are the perks (financial, job security, status, etc.) of having a career in computing and information technology?
   As a university Professor with tenure, I have very good job security with a lifetime appointment as a Professor. Our salaries as computer science Professors are very lucrative as well. We have the ability to make additional income from consulting and other opportunities. Besides, we get to teach/train the next generation of scholars and that's a huge reward.
6. In what ways do you find that your career in this field contributes to, in relative terms, a high quality of life?
   As a Professor, my time is my time. I am judge on what I produce, not on how long I work. Therefore, I can work when I want as long as I want, other than when I teach. The most important aspect of my accountability is that I produce. Therefore, my quality of life is excellent!
7. What would you tell young people who are considering pursuing a degree and career in computing and information technology?
   Our field is very exciting and full of opportunities. Follow your passion! If you enjoy technology, problem solving, etc. then this is the field for you!
8. In your experience, do the traditional stereotypes of the computing and IT nerd and geek hold true for most people in this field?
   No. Simply put, our field is very diverse. You can't stereotype our field. There are types of people in this field, which makes it even more exciting.
9. Talk about some of the obstacles you may have faced along the way in choosing, and working your way toward this degree.
   Classes and course work can be difficult at times, but once you are done, the reward at the end of school is worth the tough days in the lab.