Employee Spotlight - June 2024

Michael Willen is the technology administrator for the Technology Services department for Kenton County. A lifelong resident of Northern Kentucky, Willen grew up in Covington and Walton, and now resides in rural Kenton County. He has a degree in applied science with a focus on Microsoft networking from Northern Kentucky University.

Before joining Kenton County in 2021, Willen worked in information technology (IT) for Kenton County Schools. In his role, he ensures smooth operations for internal departments and external agencies.

What are the day-to-day responsibilities of your job?

My day starts with checking emails and voicemails to catch any issues that may have come up overnight. We use a ticket system to manage tasks, so I prioritize those tickets based on urgency and impact, making sure the most critical problems are addressed first.

I support a wide range of people and departments, including all Kenton County Fiscal Court departments, the Kenton County Clerk, the County Attorney and city police and fire departments.

I often deal with issues such as network connectivity problems, software glitches and hardware failures. Many problems can be fixed remotely using access tools, but for more complex issues, I visit the site to troubleshoot and consult directly with the staff on their needs.

Flexibility is key in my role since the work I do facilitates essential services across the community. I can go from managing a simple task such as resetting a password to handling a more serious issue like a network outage affecting emergency services. It can be challenging, but it's exciting and makes my job more fun.

What are some of the rewarding aspects of your job?

The people here make it really easy to do your job. Everyone is so supportive and appreciative of what we do in Technology Services. I've been in environments before where people are calling IT super frustrated, but it's not like that here. It's a positive and collaborative environment, making it one of the best places I've worked.

Another reward is knowing I'm supporting essential services. I'm not a police officer or a dispatcher, but I support them and, through what I do, help facilitate what they do. Knowing that my work helps keep the community safe and well-served is a great feeling.

What are some fun facts about you?

I’m really into photography and video, especially capturing landscapes when my family and I go hiking. We love spending time outdoors and often combine our hiking trips with photography sessions. My wife and I even do some wedding photography together.

Another fun fact is that I have a couple of Australian shepherds, a cat and a bearded dragon at home.

About the Employee Spotlight

Each month, a Kenton County Fiscal Court department leader nominates an employee for the "Employee Spotlight" recognition. Nominees are chosen for their exemplary job performance and dedication to making Kenton County the best place to live, work and raise your family in Kentucky.

In nominating Willen, Jessica Moss Ramsey , director engineer of Technology Services, said:

"Michael takes great joy and satisfaction out of helping people with their computer issues. He is quick to respond to requests for assistance, and is always ready with a smile and a laugh for everyone."

Congratulations, Michael, on the June 2024 Employee Spotlight recognition!