Go With The Lowe

By Meriam Shanti, Opinions Editor

ISABELLA DOHERTY/ The Shamrock

John Lowe is Kennedy High’s very own Inspector Gadget. As the only Information Technology (IT) specialist, Lowe is solely to thank for Chromebooks running smoothly, printers printing trouble free, and all other technology students and staff alike enjoy. Kennedy wouldn’t function properly without Lowe’s tireless work.

Lowe began his prolonged career in technology by receiving a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Metallurgical Engineering from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. His path from engineering to working in school IT wasn’t exactly linear. He worked at many different companies; operating as a sales clerk at a camera store to building nuclear reactor parts for the U.S. Navy.

Eventually, the lack of engineering jobs landed Lowe back at school, where he would subsequently secure a job at Kennedy High School in 2000. 19 years later, Lowe is still the same valuable asset to Kennedy as he was when he started. His work does not go unappreciated by the staff he’s assisted.

“His help is always crucial, he's kind of like MacGyver. He keeps things running with little to no budget and piecing things together just to make it through,” Counseling Secretary Linda Zubiate said.

Although Lowe does tend to stay behind the scenes around campus, his help is anything but low-profile.

“A crucial time that Mr. Lowe's prompt and vital attention was displayed was when the library was flooding,” Librarian Kim Buck said. “He managed to get all the computers disconnected before the water could damage them.”

Without his quick action during the flood, countless dollars would have been undoubtedly lost to computer damage.

Despite challenges he faces daily, Lowe takes fulfillment in finding solutions, rightfully so.

“[I enjoy] The ‘eureka’ moments when there's something I've been trying to fix for a while and I finally come up with a solution that works,” Lowe said. “The ‘walk-by fix’ is fun, too; that's where I fix a problem by just pressing a couple keys as I walk by.”

Lowe’s cherished help and personality have earned him a reputation among the staff.

“Mr. Lowe is the most popular employee on campus. He is vital to our day to day operations and a knowledgeable and fun person to talk to,” Buck said.

The constant technological emergencies are no match for Lowe’s prowess and expertise.