Uphs — Portage Heroes | Ryan Neely, It Support Specialist

What is your role at UP Health System — Portage?

I am an IT Support Specialist. In addition to telling employees to try and restart their computers, I assist with any computer troubleshooting issues (some easy, some complex) that may arise, and take whatever action is needed to get the issue resolved.

How long have you been employed here?

I have been at UP Health System — Portage for 5 years. I started out in medical records, then spent some time in the Upper Great Lakes IT department for a bit before accepting my current role at Portage.

Prior to working at Portage, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?

When living in Minneapolis, I ran a city recreation center. It was not so unusual, but fun. I would coordinate events, and activities for community members, and when the need arose, I would actually coach sports for the youth teams and “pretend” I knew how to play whatever sport I was being asked to coach at the time. Many times the kids were actually way better than me so mostly I provided direction and drills while trying not to embarrass myself by giving demonstrations. It was also great being a mentor for the kids that would attend the recreation center.

Tell us a little bit about your family.

I married my wife, Allison, in 2012. We have moved around a bit, mostly around the Upper Midwest. She currently works as an Archivist at Michigan Tech. We are the owners of two goblins that are often mistaken for cats.

What sorts of things do you like to do in your spare time?

Despite a common misconception about IT workers, I do not have a predilection for video games. I love to be outside. Whether it be hiking, surfing, rock climbing, camping, or skiing in winter, I love to get out. I also enjoy literature, and I am sure many have seen me riding my motorcycle to work and were able to deduce my enjoyment of that as well.

Do you have any bucket list items you would like to share with us?

Earlier this summer, my brother and I attempted to climb El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. We started but had to abandon the climb due to inclement weather. I would like to go back and complete it. I would also like to ride my motorcycle along the Pan-American Highway.

Can you share something about yourself that would surprise us?

Not many people realize this, but before working in more office admin roles, I actually was a Paramedic. I also attended a fire academy and am a certified firefighter; obviously, I am not actively using that certification, but will probably start volunteering if time allows. I also am involved with local outdoor cleanup groups.

What is the best part about working for UPHS — Portage?

I enjoy the people I work with. I have worked at several hospitals in various capacities. Portage is one of the friendliest facilities I have ever been a part of.