Meet Matthew Roxburgh, a UTRGV Unsung Hero
Text by Amanda A. Taylor-Uchoa
For nearly two decades, Matthew Roxburgh has been a vital member of UTRGV’s frontline IT support team, ensuring faculty, staff, and students have the technical tools they need to succeed. As a Technology Support Specialist II, Roxburgh tackles everything from hardware repairs and software troubleshooting to complex technical escalations and IT infrastructure support.
A UTPA alumnus who has grown alongside the institution, Roxburgh says one of the most unforgettable moments in his career was witnessing the creation of UTRGV and the unification of campuses to serve the Rio Grande Valley. Beyond his technical skill, he’s also known for his dedication to the university community, his participation in Staff Senate and other committees, and his behind-the-scenes contributions that help keep campus operations running smoothly.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED HERE?
17 years.
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT UTRGV?
As a Technology Support Specialist, I provide frontline technical support for university faculty, staff, and students. As part of a team, I am responsible for troubleshooting hardware and software issues, maintaining and deploying technology equipment, managing support tickets, and ensuring efficient operation of campus IT resources.
DESCRIBE YOUR AVERAGE DAY:
I begin my day by reviewing open support tickets in the IT service management system. Requests vary in scope and urgency, from password resets and software installation issues to more complex technical challenges involving hardware or part replacements. I assess the queue, prioritize tickets based on impact and urgency, and begin addressing the most time-sensitive issues. As the day concludes, I close out resolved tickets, update ongoing issue logs, and ensure any pending matters are appropriately documented and escalated if necessary. I often consult with colleagues to share insights, align on unresolved issues, and prepare for the following day.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
My favorite part of the job is helping users resolve their technical issues, which provides a satisfying sense of accomplishment and directly improves their productivity. I enjoy troubleshooting complex problems, learning new technologies, and providing clear, patient guidance to ensure users feel confident and supported. Ultimately, making technology easier to use for others and seeing their appreciation makes the role deeply rewarding.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MEMORY OR STORY ABOUT YOUR TIME HERE?
One of my favorite memories is the formation of UTRGV, which came about through the merger of two universities to create a new institution with a medical school. It was a monumental effort by both staff and faculty but seeing the two campuses come together to create a vibrant and supportive environment for students and the RGV community was truly an unforgettable experience.
TELL US SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU:
Most people don’t know that I’m very family-oriented and really enjoy spending time with my loved ones. I also have a hidden talent for singing, and I’m a hands-on, tech-savvy person. If something breaks or I need to learn how to fix it, I’ll dive into research until I figure it out.
WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE UTRGV COMMUNITY?
My relationship with the UTRGV community spans many years, beginning with UTPA. I started my academic journey there and later launched my career within the institution, continuing with UTRGV after its establishment. Throughout the years, I have been actively involved in the university, including my participation in the UTRGV Staff Senate and various key committees. This has allowed me to network with faculty, staff, and departments across the institution. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing UTRGV's growth and its transformative impact on the Rio Grande Valley, and I am proud to have contributed to this journey.
