COM-PHX: Building the Future of Medical Learning in Maricopa County
At the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix (COM-PHX), innovation isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a blueprint. With a unique blend of academic rigor, healthcare delivery, and advanced technology, the college is creating an environment where learning is hands-on, efficient, and highly adaptive. And behind that transformation is a collaborative team of UITS professionals, like Chris Dieterich, Instructional Support Manager, and Lorenzo Borean, Information Technology Manager, who are helping to shape a smarter infrastructure for education and research.
A Smarter Way to Learn
COM-PHX is home to a very sophisticated learning environment. From Scottsdale to Gilbert, the technology team supports over half a dozen programs across the Phoenix region – spanning classrooms, research spaces, anatomy labs, simulation centers, and more.
One of the most compelling differences? The integration of learning space technology directly onto the network. Every projector, microphone, and control system are remotely managed, allowing the team to monitor, troubleshoot, and optimize classroom equipment without stepping foot into the room. “We can track how long devices are running, turn off unused systems, and even troubleshoot live presentations,” Dieterich explained. "It's not just convenient. It’s efficient and environmentally responsible."
Cutting-Edge Tools, Real-World Impact
From endpoint-managed laptops and tablets to remote support capabilities, efficiency is central to how this team of IT professionals operates. Borean shared that the team is piloting Microsoft Intune for seamless device deployment, meaning faculty and staff could soon receive pre-configured devices directly from the factory—ready to use out of the box.
Perhaps the most impressive advancement? A ceiling-mounted microphone the size of a light switch, capable of capturing audio across an entire conference room without a visible trace. “It’s compact, powerful, and completely changes how we design our learning environments,” said Dieterich, who led the early implementation of the device.
More Than Medicine
While the team’s primary focus is in support of COM-PHX, their reach extends across the Health Sciences network, assisting diverse environments including physical therapy labs, cooperative extension sites, and even programs from other colleges. “It’s not your typical IT setup,” said Dieterich, referencing the unique medical environment. “One day it’s a classroom, the next it’s a cadaver lab. We adapt to it all.”
Looking Ahead
As the university continues to expand its reach across the Phoenix region, UITS teams like the one at COM-PHX are setting the standard for what’s possible when technology, medicine, and education converge. Their innovative work doesn’t just include the IT environment. It powers the future of healthcare education.
Please look for Part 2 on the Future of Medical Learning where we will uncover the innovative technologies at College of Medicine – Tucson.