UTA Libraries Staff Spotlight: Austin Gilmore

Austin Gilmore is one of the people behind giving UTA Libraries an online presence. He joined the Libraries' Marketing and Communications Department in March as its new web developer. 

Austin shared that his interest in gaming led him to a career in the tech industry, which put him on a path to join the staff here at the Libraries. 

"I graduated from Arkansas Tech University in 2020 with a bachelor's in gaming and interactive media. My first job out of college was at Lewisville at Responsive Education Solutions," Austin said. "My job there was to build children's learning games and develop internal curriculum specific web pages. That is what led me here to UTA as a web developer." 

In his role in the Marketing and Communications Department, Austin works alongside Andrew Leverenz, Senior web developer, in managing the Libraries' website through the content management system Drupal. Through this system, Andrew and Austin manage the content on the site and its features and make any necessary updates as needed. 

To aid in his career development, Austin has continually sought out new educational opportunities. Using online resources, Austin has sharpened his web design and development skills. He hopes that while at the university, he will further his education as he pursues a master's degree. 

Austin's journey to the United States and later to the university started when he was very young. 

"I am a first-generation immigrant and a first-generation college student. I was born in Guangzhou, China and came to the United States when I was eight," Austin said. "The family that sponsored me is close to my biological family. I call them mom and dad because they are like my second mom and dad. They took me in, and I grew up in Arkansas." 

Austin stated that his biological father was originally supposed to come to the U.S., but circumstances prevented him from making the trip. So, to give their son a brighter future, Austin's parents sent him in his father's place. 

"Coming here was tough, and I didn't know English the first year or two. As I grew older, I got used to the environment and learned the language. It was challenging," Austin said. "My mom in China told me they had me come here because it would be a better opportunity for me. I think the choice they made has provided me with that opportunity. I would not be in this position today if I didn't immigrate here when I was eight." 

Austin stated that he appreciates the warm welcome he has received since joining the staff here at UTA Libraries. He looks forward to growing professionally and giving back to others in this new role here at the university.