Luke Gassman named May’s Civil Service Employee of the Month

Story by Brielle Smetana

Luke Gassman, a database/systems engineer for University Networking and Research Computing, has been named South Dakota State University’s Civil Service Employee of the Month for May.

He will be honored at a reception held from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Monday, June 1, in Morrill Hall Room 104.

Gassman has worked at SDSU for close to a decade. He was hired shortly before finishing his systems networking and security degree from Dakota State University. When he started at SDSU, he initially focused on networking and systems administration. Gassman has since switched to working in research cyberinfrastructure.

Throughout his time at SDSU, he has demonstrated dependability, diligence, composure and quick thinking. Gassman’s colleagues said he goes above and beyond in his work, which includes everyday IT support, software installation and high-performance computing.

Gassman has contributed to several significant projects on campus, including setting up the state-funded high-performance computing cluster, Innovator, in 2023, and now helping deploy the new Discovery cluster purchased in 2024.

“Luke brings creativity and integrity to every project he works on, always looking for better ways to serve our researchers while keeping their needs front and center,” said Chad Julius, director of research cyberinfrastructure. “His work ethic, technical skill and dedication have helped SDSU lead the way in research computing, not just on campus, but across the entire state.”

Not only is Gassman known as a hard worker, but he is also recognized for his positivity and serviceability. He is one of the first people others turn to when they need tech or research support due to his approachability and understanding. Gassman is always willing to help his colleagues and researchers. In fact, he plays an instrumental role in the results of their work.

Kevin Brandt, assistant vice president for research cyberinfrastructure, said, “Beyond his high-performance computing system administration workload, Luke supports many research applications that provide computational solutions for researchers, graduate students and undergraduate students.”

Jeffrey Doom, associate professor of mechanical engineering, added, “His guidance is often the bridge between research challenges and successful results, making him an indispensable mentor for SDSU's next generation of scholars.”

One of those scholars, Ashley Blocker, who is now a postdoctoral research associate, attributes much of her research abilities to Gassman. “Beyond his expertise, Luke's approachable and collaborative nature makes him exceptionally easy to work with, and his willingness to go above and beyond has had a lasting impact on the quality and efficiency of my work,” she said.

Gassman takes pride in helping faculty achieve their research goals and said he greatly appreciates this award. He thanked Julius and Brandt for the nomination, and thanks all those who spoke on his behalf.

His colleagues agree: Gassman is an exemplary employee at SDSU. “Luke is an outstanding, world-class IT professional who has a genuine interest in assisting everyone he meets,” said Stephen Gent, director of North Central Regional Sun Grant Center.

All SDSU Employee of the Month selections are determined through a nomination process by the Civil Service Advisory Council. Each civil service employee of the month receives an appreciation monetary gift from the F.O. Butler Foundation. The Trustees of the foundation recognize the importance of civil service employees and take this opportunity to thank them for their exemplary service.