The Dearborn Icebreaker is a new Reporter feature designed to help us get to know our UM-Dearborn colleagues.
Name: Tim Davis
Position: Director of iLabs
What does a typical workday look like for you?
I spend most of my day solving problems, interspersed with meetings, teaching, working with students, and traveling around the state connecting with entrepreneurs and business/government leaders.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
It is a tie. It is great connecting with the various organizations outside of campus, but what brightens up a long day is spending time with students and getting their perspective.
What was your first job?
I started my own company doing odd jobs and lawn mowing when I was in high school.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I own a flamethrower.
What do you do to relax?
Woodwork.
What’s your definition of a life well lived?
Leaving the world in a better condition than when I found it.
What’s the proudest moment of your life?
Getting remarried by an Elvis impersonator in Las Vegas for my 15th wedding anniversary, and having the DVD to prove it.
If we were to create a UM-Dearborn playlist, what song would you want to include?
“Cars” by Gary Numan.
If someone handed you a $100 bill, what would you do with it?
Assuming there are no strings attached, I would donate it to something that impacts students. However, it would be fun to secretly hide it somewhere for someone else to find.
What advice would you give to this year’s graduating class?
My parents had two rules. My dad’s rule was “Don’t embarrass me.” My mom’s rule was “Don’t get hurt.” These two pieces of advice have served me well, and are easily adaptable to almost every situation.
