Erik Palafox is Gold U winner

Erik Palafox likes tinkering with things.

“Ever since I was little, figuring out how things work and how you can add something to make them work better, that’s something that has always been with me.”

When he first went to college, he was considering studying automotive maintenance. But when he discovered computer science, he realized there was a lot of tinkering he could do, a lot of improvements he could make, in the world of computer coding, as well.

Palafox, a software engineer in development and operations in the UNMC Department of IT, is the recipient of the October Gold U. The award is given only six times a year to employees who consistently deliver outstanding performance and service to UNMC.

Palafox’s nominator called out his diligent work ethic, winning attitude and commitment to accountability while also praising him for his work on two specific projects: UNeVal enhancements and an online process for non-clinical and clinical stipends in the ADIS system.

“His positive attitude is contagious,” the nominator said. “When you meet with him to discuss the project, he leaves you with a positive engaging force. This is because he assures you that he will work on the project or issue, and he delivers what he says he will deliver.”

Palafox, who has been at UNMC for more than five years, said his work is always a challenge.

“A lot of the things we do are new; nobody has done them before,” he said. “You can look online for something similar, but you have to think about how you want to do it here. I think it’s fun — I love it. To think about how to create a new system or a new process . . . I just really love it.”

Palafox said another reason he loves his job is the people he works with.

“The relationships I have with the customers, with my teammates, with everyone here – even the cleaning crew — it’s just amazing. When you have a group of people who are great to work with, you never want to go anywhere.”

Palafox called his Gold U recognition a team effort.

“There are a lot of people on campus who are amazing at what they do and have helped me get to where I am. So I would like to thank them and the people who nominated me — it’s a great honor.”