Rob Dicken

Rob Dicken is a seasoned IT professional with over 25 years of hands-on experience spanning infrastructure, SQL databases, business intelligence, and enterprise support. As Senior Systems Support Engineer at The United States Playing Card Company, he manages mission-critical manufacturing systems and keeps a wide range of platforms humming with maximum uptime. His career has included key roles at companies such as Aristocrat Technologies, OnTrac, The Nielsen Company, Dell, LG&E, and his own consultancy, Byte This Tech Solutions. Rob holds a Master of Science in Information Technology from the University of Cincinnati, a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Technology from Southern New Hampshire University, and an Associate of Applied Science from Ivy Tech Community College.

When he's not deep in server configs, optimizing databases, or racking and stacking servers and switches, Rob brings his real-world tech experience into higher education classrooms—breaking down complicated concepts and helping students “level up” their skills. Whether he’s introducing beginners to the fundamentals of computing or guiding advanced learners through enterprise-grade infrastructure, he focuses on hands-on, relatable instruction. His teaching style combines practical application with the kind of approachability that turns “404 errors” into “aha!” moments, always with a touch of humor and mentorship.

A lifelong gamer, Rob grew up on the classics (NES, Game Boy) and still keeps pace with the latest AAA titles, often dropping gaming references into lectures when the moment’s right. Outside of IT, he’s a die-hard Cincinnati Reds fan, vinyl record lover, baseball card and memorabilia collector, Funko Pop curator, comic book reader, and movie buff with a soft spot for sci-fi, superheroes, and all things pop culture. He also enjoys bowling and believes that great tech education—like great gameplay—requires strategy, adaptability, and the courage to press start.