Unit Computing Specialist

John Gibson

For over twenty years, I have worked at the intersection of people and technology at Rutgers University Libraries. As an Instructional Technology Specialist, I ensure that our systems run smoothly so that students, faculty, and staff can focus on their research and learning without technical interruptions.

I am a lifelong learner, currently expanding my skills in programming and database management to better support the evolving needs of the libraries.

John Gibson
Career Path

Professional Experience

Unit Computing Specialist

Rutgers University Libraries, Central ITS

2026 - Present
  • Provide comprehensive in-person and remote end-user support for desktop hardware, software, and operating systems across Windows and Mac environments.
  • Serve as a Subject Matter Expert for high-impact tools and Windows Server Support providing advanced troubleshooting and end-user training.
  • Coordinate and participate in critical IT projects, tracking progress and ensuring seamless rollouts of new technologies and annual refresh cycles.

Instructional Technology Specialist

Rutgers University, Paul Robeson Library

2002 - 2026
  • Led technology initiatives, overseeing operations, training, and deployment of library technologies.
  • Collaborated with faculty to integrate innovative technologies, enhancing library services and educational outcomes.
  • Designed and implemented applications to improve information access, including an award-winning touchscreen interface.

Computer Technician

Rutgers University, Paul Robeson Library

1997 - 2002
  • Responsible for all aspects of hardware and software support for library faculty and staff, including training, maintenance, setup, and troubleshooting.
  • Created and assisted with graphics, HTML, and animation for the library website.
Academia

Education

Graduate Studies in Computer Science

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Honor's College

Certified Electronics

Camden County Institute of Technology, New Jersey

Core Competencies

Skills & Expertise

ITIL Certified
System Imaging
Active Directory
Software Deployment
ADA Accessibility
AI & Emerging Tech
Shared Governance
Strategic Planning
Project Coordination
Alma Analytics
LibGuides / Canvas
JavaScript
Portfolio

Key Initiatives & Projects

NeblavaniaxRPG

Lead iOS Developer & Architect

SWIFT | SPRITEKIT | SWIFTUI | STATE MANAGEMENT

A feature-complete iOS RPG built with a hybrid native architecture. This project serves as a technical demonstration of advanced system design in Swift.

  • Hybrid Architecture: Integrated SpriteKit rendering with reactive SwiftUI interfaces for seamless UI/UX.
  • Dynamic Systems: Engineered a procedural world engine with interpolated lighting and weather-driven gameplay effects.
  • Complex State Persistence: Built a robust Codable-based save/load system for persistent world and character data.
  • Advanced Logic: Developed modular extensions for turn-based combat, attribute-driven progression, and item crafting.
NeblavaniaxRPG Gameplay

Bergart

Lead iOS Developer & Systems Architect

SWIFT | SPRITEKIT | SWIFTUI | AVFOUNDATION

A native iOS strategic card game built on a custom-engineered hybrid engine. This project demonstrates high-level proficiency in integrating disparate Apple frameworks to create a performant, state-driven gaming experience.

  • Hybrid Engine: SpriteKit rendering engine handles logic/physics while a reactive SwiftUI layer manages complex UI.
  • Procedural Environments: Dynamic visual effects including procedural rune generation, interpolated torch lighting, and custom SKEmitterNode particle systems.
  • Strategic Logic: Complex turn-based engine featuring multi-tier attribute checking, suit-based counter-mechanics, and custom triggers.
  • Integrated Media: Dedicated audio controller for low-latency sound effects and concurrent background music management.

Software & App Dev

  • Graphics Systems: Architected a high-performance 3D engine using the OpenGL API.
  • Full-Stack Development: Engineered a secure authentication platform with a MySQL backend.
  • Pedagogical Software Creation: Authored a browser-based diagnostic application for Library of Congress classification.

Library Systems

  • Executed the ABBYY FineReader implementation for network integration of scanning operations to support ADA Titile 2 image coneversions.
  • Affiliate Barcode Login Software Kiosk - Visual Studio.Net
  • Access in the Stacks - Visual Studio.Net