Wardinsky named NIC chief information officer

North Idaho College has selected Ken Wardinsky, chief information officer and planning director for Great Falls College Montana State University, as its new chief information officer.

"We're very excited to have Ken join our team here at North Idaho College," said NIC President Joe Dunlap. "His 19 years of experience and knowledge working in this field will be a great benefit for everyone."

In mid-July, Wardinsky will take over the position of former NIC CIO Steve Ruppel, who retired after 35 years of service to the college and the region. Ruppel came to NIC in 1980 as a night-shift computer operator and served in many positions in IT before his current role.

As CIO at Great Falls College MSU, Wardinsky oversaw the network, server, Web and classroom services and systems for the campus as well as technology planning, purchasing and budgeting. As director of planning, his work included refining the mission and vision of the college, revising the college's core themes and developing a new strategic plan for the college. Wardinsky is also the co-chair of the college's strategic enrollment management committee, in which he is heavily focused on student enrollment and retention for the campus.

"I am excited to join the North Idaho College family and for the opportunity to work with all of the talented individuals at the college and in the Information Technology Department," Wardinsky said. "I look forward to joining the surrounding community and plan on enjoying the beautiful views and lakes of the area and the opportunity to engage with the great minds at NIC."

Wardinsky holds a bachelor's degree in computer information systems from Montana State University-Northern, and a master's degree in management with a concentration in computer information systems security from Colorado Technical University.