July 2025 CIO Updates

As part of continued efforts to ensure data in the UT Data Hub is at the leading edge of AI readiness for campus use, D2I has recently completed the first stage of a multi-phase implementation of Databricks within the UT Data Hub.The implementation of Databricks will enable faster querying of data in the Data Hub, particular as it relates to querying by AI tools, with some queries seeing an over 50% reduction in time to output. Databricks will increase security of the Data Hub even further, building a strong foundation for AI tool use now and in the future. The first phase of the Databricks implementation provides the groundwork for future phases, as all new pipelines will now be initiated in the Databricks environment. Migration of existing pipelines will be phased in the coming months and should be substantially complete some time next year. Upon full implementation, we also expect a reduction in cost as we shift out of Postgres.

 

As part of UT.AI’s broader initiative to integrate AI tools into university operations, Copilot training efforts have scaled significantly, with Microsoft partner i2e delivering 25 in-person classes to 307 users across key campus locations including RRH, GLT, TNH, and HDB. All trainings have been tracked in UT Learn to support future reporting and analysis. Copilot adoption continues to grow across campus, with 2,088 licenses now assigned and 1,416 users actively engaging. The Provost’s Office leads the rollout, having distributed 723 licenses, including 48 new assignments. Early feedback shows strong productivity gains, with 51 respondents estimating a time savings of 1–2 hours per day using Copilot in their roles, and another 36 reporting 1–2 hours per week, reinforcing the value of continued investment in training and adoption. UT.AI is a university-wide initiative to integrate AI into key areas of the institution, with Copilot as a key focus for supporting operations. Teams across Enterprise Technology including Enterprise Learning Technology, Engagement and Experience and Campus Solutions have partnered to support the rollout through training, licensing, and impact tracking. This coordinated effort ensures AI adoption is aligned with campus goals for innovation and excellence.

 

Following infrastructure upgrades by Electronic Physical Security Systems (EPSS) and Housing and Dining that introduced new door access technology using iCLASS, the ID Center identified an opportunity to simplify ID Cards and reduce costs. By eliminating the proximity chip, we achieved both financial savings and reduced card complexity. The effort resulted in a successful collaboration with campus partners to validate and ultimately eliminate the need for proximity chips on ID Cards. ID Cards no longer require proximity chips, resulting in annual savings of $100,000. To ensure the proximity chip was no longer necessary, we engaged campus partners and CapMetro to confirm and test functionality. The primary challenge was compatibility with UT Print printers, which previously relied on proximity chips. Thanks to Kourt de Haas, who collaborated with vendors and personally installed and tested new card reader hardware and software, we were able to implement a solution that supports both proximity and iCLASS technology—paving the way for a streamlined ID card configuration.