Staff Spotlight: Michael Thompson

July 1, 2025

Briefly describe your job/role at UC Berkeley:

Building Operations Manager, Office of the Chancellor.

How long have you worked at Cal?

31 years total: 5 years part time + 26 full years of service.

What do you love about working at UC Berkeley?

I believe in our "product". I love working for an organization that is committed to education - supporting a range of populations across diverse communities. Also, there are also so many opportunities for different jobs all within the same system.

What makes you a star, and sets you apart from your colleagues?

I always strive to keep an open mind to new technologies, processes, and evolving work culture. While institutional knowledge and history is important to know and consider, I believe that my openness to continuous improvement and fresh approaches to old challenges makes me a star. I'm not afraid to start from step one repeatedly. I say bring it on with enthusiasm!

What tip would you pass on to other staff to thrive on campus?

My first tip would be to embrace change and new assignments without looking for immediate compensation. Don't be derailed or resentful when taking on new levels of responsibility without being formally recognized - you perform the work first and the classification and compensation will come later. My second tip is to sign up for a career coach! My coach has helped me uncover and address challenges that have slowed down my career progression. I recommend a coach for anyone wanting to move up/around/out or just more smoothly within UC.

What can we find you doing on the weekends?

My outside interests are swimming, hiking, weights, reading, and dining out. I love travel with friends - wish I could do more of it.