NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Image above: Ian Batchelder (left) provides an IT overview to Kenneth Cameron (right), NESC Deputy Director for Safety and Chief Astronaut. Credit: Sean Smith

Since the 1980s, Ian Batchelder knew that he might end up working in a technical field.

“I’ve generally been a computer geek since I got my first Commodore in the early '80s. It seemed a good fit,” Batchelder said.

As an ODIN Enhanced System Administrator, Batchelder provides IT support for NESC and the staff in the NASA Langley Headquarters building.

Batchelder’s love for computers has in no way kept him glued to his seat or the screen.

He admits to being a “ski bum” before he moved here from Vail, Colo., the city he calls home.

“I love to ski and there really is no comparison (to Vail), as their slogan states,” Batchelder said.

His love of outdoor adventure is not limited to the mountains. “I’m also a huge fan of white sand and turquoise water,” he added.

Batchelder lived on a private dive boat anchored off the coast of Honduras for three months.

Image Right: Ian Batchelder. Credit: Sandy Gibbs/NASA.

“While backpacking about Central America in my early 20s, I had the opportunity to dive Roatan twice a day, every day, all expenses paid. That’s proven a difficult experience to outdo, but I keep trying,” he explained.

Batchelder also enjoys spending time with his fiancée, Leslie, and their three cats and dog.

He has a great appreciation for his work here at NASA Langley.

Batchelder has been working on center for more than five years and enjoys the people most of all. “You’d be hard pressed to find a more interesting cross section,” he said.

His work keeps him busy because he provides IT support for NESC at all 10 of the NASA centers.

“I’d really like to feel 100% caught-up, just one time. To be ahead would be a genuine accomplishment,” Batchelder said.

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Denise Adams
The Researcher News