Basics
I'm Dan Gentry, an IT guy and musician living in West Lafayette, Indiana
Tech
Since my kids were young, they have always referred to me as a "computer guy" when asked what I do. That's pretty much true, but a little more detail may be in order.
Currently, I'm the Director of Information Services for the Purdue University Development Office. My role is to try and make data and applications understandable and useful to normal people, and to help support the University and its mission. Luckily, I have a great staff, so my main tasks are to lead meetings and tell corny jokes. My first four years at Purdue (beginning in 2001) were spent as the Assistant Director of the same department, where I led the reporting and data analysis efforts.
Before my current assignment, I spent 15 years working in county government as a programmer, project leader, and manager.
In addition to my day job, I develop web applications as a freelance developer using the Python/Django platform. See dashdrum.com for more info.
Finally, since becoming a manager, I'm fairly worthless at PC setup and debugging. I'll try, but you'd probably be better off calling a professional. :)
Music
I've been playing trombone with the Lafayette Citizens' Band for the past few years, and also in the spinoff group the "Top Brass" - providing music at selected ROTC events for Purdue University.
Beginning in 2010, I was invited to participate in the Teddy Bear Concert, put on by the New Day Foundation. It's a great show for a great cause, and I look forward to it each year.
I can also be found playing electric bass and Irish bouzouki, mostly in my basement.
Contact
- Email: dan@dangentry.me
- Twitter: @dan_gentry