Christopher Pundzak, the Man Behind the Computers
In the twenty-first century, a smoothly running computer system is essential for any organization to perform at its best. For Catholic nonprofits, constantly faced with the challenge of managing funds, keeping IT up to date often represents a significant obstacle. The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe is exceptionally blessed in this regard, largely because of one special staff member: Lead IT Christopher Pundzak, the man behind the computers.
Pilgrimage of Life
A path of twists and turns led Pundzak to his role at the Shrine, where he has now worked for nine years. Originally from Nebraska, he moved with his family to Virginia, then to Madison, WI to be near relatives. Pundzak studied IT at Western Technical College in La Crosse; after he graduated, his uncle, then head of maintenance at the Shrine, offered him work in the Shrine’s maintenance department. Hesitant at first, Pundzak quickly discovered his gifts in his new job: Working on an old online store for the Flores Mariae Gift Shop led to many more projects, including building five computers that have kept the technical management of Our Lady’s Shrine running smoothly.
Behind the Computers
Pundzak shrugs off his achievements as “not important,” saying, “I like the experience and saving the Shrine money.” The work also comes with its share of difficulties, including the complications of putting together computers’ many parts. Changes in the technical world also represent a continual challenge, one that Pundzak makes ongoing efforts to meet: “When there is change coming, I try to make informed decisions and get as much training as I can.” In fact, this self-acquired type of training is how he acquired most of his expertise.
A Joy to Work with!
Among his friends and fellow staff, Pundzak is known for his resilient, cheerful spirit; he can often be seen biking to and from work, and his smile is perhaps his most distinctive characteristic. He finds joy in things great and small, including his parish in St. Joseph’s Ridge, Kwik Trip, food, making people laugh, caring for others, biking, silly jokes, praying, music, singing, and friends.
In the past nine years, Pundzak has become essential to the Shrine as both a staff member and a part of the community. “Christopher is the best in-house Lead IT in La Crosse,” attests Communications Director Becket Ghioto, whose department is closely connected with IT. “No one else could do what he does, the way he does it. I’m so proud to have this immensely talented man as an integral member of my team.” On his own end, Pundzak has come to feel a deep connection to his Shrine community; as he says, “This place is like family to me. I feel so close to everybody.”
A Joy to Pray with!
Nor is the “family” of the Shrine limited to those living on earth. “Over the years I have gotten more prayerful and I’ve found trust in Our Lady and trust in St. Joseph,” Pundzak shares. Indeed, our Blessed Mother, “who never lets herself be outdone in love” (St. Louis de Montfort), is always eager to embrace those who come near to her.
Christopher Pundzak is truly “an integral member” of Our Lady’s Shrine, a blessing both in his exceptional skills and in his love for God and neighbor. Through his work, the Shrine’s mission is enabled to flourish in the digital age.
Christopher Pundzak, the Man Behind the Computers
