Lookin’ at U – Mic Tierney

Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee. This week, we learn more about Mic Tierney.

• Name: Mic Tierney
• Hometown: Long Beach, Calif.
• No. of years at UNMC: One and a half years

Tell us a bit about what you do here at UNMC.

I am a project manager for new construction projects on campus. I am currently overseeing the new College of Pharmacy building project. I really enjoy the diversity of projects here at UNMC which allows me the opportunity to interact with a tremendous diversity of personalities. Every project is a new exciting experience.

“Commitment to excellence” is one of UNMC’s brand values. Tell us of a time you witnessed excellence at work at UNMC.
When relocating staff in Swanson Hall to make way for the new Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, more than 20 different departments moved to different locations all over the campus. We had to find those locations, remodel them and supply the requirements each department needed, all with minimal interruption and on a tight construction schedule. Our department pulled together with a single goal to get each department moved on schedule. Everyone had their own departments to relocate, but still took the time to help others. This project would have failed without leadership from Ron Schaefer, Mike Faber and Melinda Pearson, who also designed the moves and kept them on schedule, as well as Nick Knopik, who was the backbone of the majority of the moves.

It was also impressive to see how other UNMC departments jumped in to help, especially Maedi Bell, Sheri Lash and Linda Johnson from UNMC’s ITS department.

What is your favorite fall activity?
Taking weekend road trips to various locations in Nebraska and the surrounding states.

List three things people may not know about you.

• I competed in mixed martial arts/wrestling in Japan and Russia for seven years after getting out of architecture school. After 12 surgeries due to various injuries, I determined it was time to return to a safer occupation.
• I work out several times a week at Mick Doyle’s Martial Arts here in Omaha and have a black belt in judo.
• When living in Los Angeles, I was a member of the Screen Actors Guild and was involved in several commercials and music videos — most widely seen would be Alan Jackson’s “Tall, Tall Trees.” (Tierney appears at 1:45 of the video.)