A Day in the Life
of a Connected IT Director
See how Alex and Sam keep their districts secure, connected, and running smoothly with the power of Zayo — from cybersecurity to classroom connectivity, follow how modern IT leaders tackle their day.
Meet Alex
Alex Carter is a dedicated IT Director with a Bachelor’s in Computer Science from The University of Washington and a Master’s in Information Technology Management from Arizona State. Passionate about education and technology, Alex ensures seamless connectivity, security, and digital support for thousands of students and staff.
From managing high-speed networks to safeguarding sensitive data, Alex leverages cutting-edge solutions to keep schools online and protected. With expertise in cybersecurity, cloud communications, and real-time IT support, Alex is a trusted leader in educational technology, empowering schools to thrive in the digital age.
Meet Sam
Sam Jones is an accomplished IT Director with seven years of experience in the industry, specializing in technology infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. She earned her degree from Wharton, where she developed a strong foundation in both business strategy and IT leadership.
Sam is passionate about leveraging cutting-edge technology to drive efficiency and innovation in her organization. She has extensive experience managing enterprise IT systems, vendor relationships, and compliance regulations, including federal programs like E-Rate. With a keen eye for strategic planning and cybersecurity, she ensures her company stays ahead in the evolving tech landscape.
Beyond her technical expertise, Sam is a collaborative leader who values mentorship and team development. She is dedicated to creating secure, scalable, and future-ready IT environments that empower businesses to thrive.
Goal for the Day
Keep the entire district online, secure, and supported—before the first bell rings and long after the last student logs off. With Zayo’s high-speed fiber, proactive cybersecurity, and real-time monitoring tools, Alex’s mission is to make sure every classroom runs smoothly—without a single hiccup.
A smooth start
Morning bell rings
Cybersecurity check
Lunch and learn
IT hotline
Wrap up
Goal for the Day
Drive strategic IT decisions while keeping her team motivated, secure, and future-focused.
From cybersecurity audits to E-rate funding reviews and 1:1s with staff, Sam balances leadership and logistics. Thanks to Zayo’s infrastructure, she can stay ahead of the curve—and still make time for mentorship, movement, and a midday break.
Work Tasks
✅ Security audit – Ensure cybersecurity protocols are up to date.
✅ Budget planning – Finalize IT budget for upcoming quarters.
✅ Vendor check-ins – Meet with software and hardware providers.
✅ Team 1:1s – Hold individual meetings with direct reports.
✅ Tech upgrades – Approve infrastructure or software upgrades.
✅ Compliance & policy updates – Ensure company meets IT regulations.
✅ Incident reports – Follow up on any recent IT issues.
✅ Future strategy session – Plan for upcoming technology trends.
✅ E-Rate funding review – Confirm eligible projects and ensure proper documentation for funding requests.
✅ E-Rate application tracking – Follow up on the status of current E-Rate applications and any pending approvals.
Personal Growth & Development
✅ Leadership training – Attend a webinar or conference.
✅ Mentorship – Write out Blake’s weekly mentorship check-in email.
Work-Life Balance
✅ Lunch break (away from the screen!) – Eat mindfully, try to get more protein.
✅ No work emails after 8 PM – Set clear boundaries.
✅ Hobby time – Read, paint, or play an instrument.
✅ Weekend plans – Book a fun activity.
Home & Personal Tasks
✅ Car maintenance – Schedule an oil change.
✅ Dental check-up – Pray I don’t have a cavity.
✅ Declutter workspace – Organize desk & files.
✅ Call family/friends – Plan mom’s birthday dinner!
We have decades of experience delivering secure, scalable, customized technology solutions for our customers.