At Florida Virtual School, the technology infrastructure must work 24/7. Without servers, PCs and the network that ties them together, there would be no class. That is the mission critical nature of the cyber world in which Cathy Brown works.

Mrs. Brown’s responsibilities include: the purchasing of computer hardware and software, ensuring that servers provide continual access to courseware, and maintaining the FLVS website and e-mail system. Equally critical is her supervision of the FLVS help desk that provides support to over two hundred FLVS employees and to thousands of students. With a total staff of ten people, the help desk responds each week to 500 to 2,000 requests for assistance with a pledge to respond within 24 hours.

To accomplish all these tasks, Mrs. Brown utilizes over 20 years of computer experience. In her prior positions with the Florida State Attorneys Office and the Orange County Public Defenders Office, Mrs. Brown maintained large technology infrastructures and trained staff members in effective technology utilization. Throughout her career, Mrs. Brown has been recognized for her ability to stay current on each new technological innovation.

Despite the critical nature of their work, Mrs. Brown and her staff maintain a calm air of professionalism. The rewards are many when students and teachers express their appreciation for positive experiences with their computers. Also helpful when Mrs. Brown wants to slow down the pace is the thrill of coaching her son’s roller hockey team to victory.

Cathy Brown serves as Technical Support Department Manager