Two-Minute Interview

Pete Hickey
Information Systems Security Officer, Computing and Communications Services
 
What is your most important function at the University and why?

It is trying to maintain the security of our computers and networks. We hold large volumes of personal information of students and employees. It is our responsibility to protect this data.

What inspires you the most about your job?

Looking at the creativity of network criminals, and teaching people how to avoid being taken in by them.

What are you the most proud of?

Twenty-nine years of year-round bicycle commuting.

What would you change in the world today if you could?

I would eliminate large multinationals and have everything run by mom and pop shops.

Who is your greatest friend? Why?

My greatest friend is my wife. She accepts me for what I am.

What would your co-workers be most surprised to know about you?

I’m always hearing someone say, “Pete did that? I’m not surprised.” It seems that nothing about what I do, or might do, surprises them.

What is your favourite pastime?

Walking up mountains.

You’ve just won $1 million. What do you do?

Put it in the bank and let it sit until I decide what to do with it.

What is the quality you value the most?

I value honesty.

Which five people (living or dead) would you like to invite to a dinner party? Tell us why.

It would probably be a bunch of friends from high school. Since leaving NYC, I’ve lost contact with all of the friends I grew up with. It would be good to see them again.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Older, wiser, and better looking.

What is your greatest hope for the future?

Dealing with the “dark side of the Internet” all of the time tends to get me to think that there is no hope for the future.

What is the best kept secret in your faculty, department or service?

If I were to tell you, it wouldn't be a best kept secret . . . and a lot of people would be mad at me.