Information technology is the industry and science of providing information to users through networks. One of the fastest growing segments of the computer industry, Information technology is the glue that holds networks and computers together, allowing everything from the database on the server to the keyboard connected to the computer to work.

Obviously, with so much emphasis on technology and so many needs filled by the school’s network, Brewster has a strong support base for its information technology (IT) needs. As with the rest of our technology program, Brewster has taken the lead with its information technology model and staffing, including having the largest IT staff within independent schools in northern New England.

Eileen Taylor, Manager of Information Technology

The warmth and friendliness of the Brewster community enticed Eileen to join our staff in 1997. She brought with her a strong background in information technology and in customer service. Before coming to Brewster, Eileen, a native of Ireland, studied computer programming and applications in Dublin, Ireland, followed by eight years in the banking industry, primarily as a computer programmer.

Eileen now lives in Tamworth, New Hampshire, with her husband Shawn, and son Collin. Her interests include travel, hiking, swimming, camping, kayaking, skiing, and of course, computers!

Eric A. Burns, Systems Administrator Engineer

Eric comes to Brewster Academy from the corporate world, where he worked in information technology in the Pacific Northwest, most significantly for Kinko's (the leader in print on demand and information services in the service sector), where he both supported a region in information technology services and contributed to the development of information technology company-wide. Having grown up in academia and been exposed to computer technology his entire life, Eric has a strong focus on the academic needs for technology and their appropriate uses. Eric is a published short story writer and poet, with fiction and nonfiction articles reflecting his belief that our technology can reflect our artistic endeavors. He also has contributed to and helped design multiple electronic publishing endeavors.

Fran Laase, Computer Office Technician Support

Fran came to Brewster Academy in April of 1996 after retiring from NYNEX, formerly New England Telephone Company, with 36 years of service. The last 15 years were spent with their computer services group. Fran has extensive experience with mini-computers, desktop computers, and was certified to repair IBM computers and their clones. Since arriving at Brewster Academy, Fran has achieved certification to repair Brewster's Apple Computer products. Fran now repairs all of the campus Apple product and is responsible for maintaining Brewster Academy's printers and physical network. Fran resides in Tuftonboro, New Hampshire with his family. His daughter Mary is a 2000 graduate of Brewster.

Chris Angelini, Database Developer

Chris Angelini joined the Brewster staff in 2001 after a time at Information Windsor, which prepared him for the IT world. He has also worked as a swim instructor, greenhouse worker, furniture handler/receiver, and late-night radio station operator. Chris is a graduate of the University of Guelph in Guelph, Ontario, as well as St. Clair College and comes to us from Ontario, Canada. His hobbies include reading, writing, playing the trumpet, swimming, rafting, music, movie reviewing, programming, tinkering with operating systems, and games of all sorts.

Pamela Swanick, Technology Assistant

Pam Swanick joined the Brewster Academy staff in Spring 2004, and has more than 10 years of experience in technology working at Alcatel and Cabletron Systems. She also has an extensive background in worldwide sales and marketing. When anyone on campus has a computer issue, Pam is on the frontlines of diagnostics, working very closely with the software and hardware engineers. Pam attended Franklin Pierce College where she majored in business and marketing management. Pam also teaches yoga at Brewster Academy and has been teaching for years at the local hospital and in the Continuing Adult Education program through the public school system.

Chris Hafner, Software Support Specialist

Chris Hafner is a graduate of Brewster's class of 2000 and at commencement was awarded the "Grace Murray Hopper Book Prize" for excellence in the field of computer technology. After graduating, he attended RIT (early decision) on scholarships, majoring in computer science. Chris is an avid outdoorsman and sailor who recently returned to New Hampshire to raise a family with his high school sweetheart. While he enjoys many hobbies, Chris's focus remains on the integration of information technologies. After working for companies including Comcast and GeekSquad, Chris returned to Brewster's Information Technology Department where he works with his former mentors to implement and maintain cutting edge technologies for Brewster's community.