Information Technology Services (ITS)
IT@UofT People — Annie Hua
Published on: September 22, 2023
The backbone of any successful team is its hard-working people. The University of Toronto’s Information Technology Services (ITS) unit is no exception. It is made up of a diverse range of people with an even greater diversity in their interests and talents.
In this segment, entitled “IT@UofT People,” we will get to know our IT@UofT team across the tri-campus community and find out more about their hidden or not-so-hidden talents and/or pursuits outside of work.
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Department: Academic, Research & Collaborative technologies
Title: Project Manager
How long have you worked at U of T?
I joined ITS in February 2022 on contract and started as full time in August that same year. It’s been just under two years.
What is your secret or not-so-secret talent or hobby outside of work?
I enjoy being out and about in nature, especially if it involves canoeing or rock climbing.
How and why did you get involved in this hobby?
As a child, I loved climbing trees, being immersed in nature and learning about biodiversity when I went to a natural science camp. Canoeing and rock climbing both allow me to be completely in the present while enjoying nature.
In high school, I tried indoor rock climbing and fell in love! During my early adulthood, I practiced indoor roped climbing (i.e., lead climbing, not bouldering) more until I was ready to take outdoor rock climbing rope safety and management courses to climb outdoors. A lot of my climbing friends are also camping enthusiasts, so naturally, I got into canoe camping as well.
In my late teens, my friend and I went canoeing on a large lake in Muskoka and had so much difficulty navigating the waves due to the wind. This motivated me to learn how to steer the canoe from the stern and eventually I learned how to solo paddle which led to me going on backcountry solo canoe trips in Northern Ontario. My two favourite Provincial Parks in Ontario are Killarney and Lady Evelyn Smooth Water for backcountry solo canoe trips, and my longest solo trip was a week.
Do you have any professional training in this field?
Not professional however, I completed courses to lead-climb outdoors. Additionally, I completed advanced canoeing courses through the Ontario Recreational Canoeing and Kayaking Association (ORCKA). I’ve also learned outdoor survival skills (e.g., setting up a snare, setting up a bear hang, making a fire from scratch using a flint, navigation, etc.).
Who/what are your inspirations?
My inspiration is to continually explore more rivers and lakes considering Canada is home to the most lakes in the world.
Anything else you would like to add?
Rock climbing and canoe tripping has taught me that risk management and safety is the top priority and I’m continually learning something new about myself or about my environment after every experience.
