As an elementary school student many years ago, Eric Weinberg learned to write code on an old, 8-bit TI85 Atari given to him by his “computer guy” uncle. It was the perfect hobby for a kid who enjoyed solving problems and finding new ways to do things.

“I guess that was my Sudoku,” Weinberg laughed, referencing the popular numbers puzzle.

Today, Weinberg applies those same skills and much more as the founding faculty member of the Viterbo University computer science program. He helped create and launch the major in fall 2022 with a dozen students. There are now 24 majors, and engineering and other students also take computer science classes.

“I’m happy with the quality and growth of our program,” Weinberg said. “We have good relationships with employers and our students are landing great internships.”

Weinberg earned bachelor’s degrees in computer science and history from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, a master’s degree in data science from Texas Tech University, and a PhD in history from the University of Kentucky. He began at Viterbo in December 2012 as the university’s web developer and programmer.

“I enjoy the doing part of computer science, but being in higher education and equipping our students with what they need to solve the really big problems in the world in an ethical, Viterbo values way is even more interesting to me,” said Weinberg, who has also taught history classes at the university. “I very much enjoy watching the students come into their own.”

Viterbo has also launched an MBA in computer science and a minor in imbedded systems is in development. Weinberg expects the demand in the field to remain strong.

“Artificial intelligence presents some challenges, but there will always be a need for people who understand AI and machines,” he said. “We’re constantly working with local businesses to see what they require and how we can adapt to meet the needs of the job market.”