ITS Deputy CIO Highlights Talent Development at Florida Public Sector Summit

Bobby Sprinkle, ITS Deputy Chief Information Officer, recently participated in the Florida Public Sector Summit panel “The Cyber Workforce Crisis: Winning the Talent War in Public Sector.” During the discussion, Sprinkle showcased the ITS Intern Cohort program and the professional development opportunities available to ITS employees as examples of how organizations such as FSU can address the cybersecurity talent shortage by investing in people.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to exchange ideas with other public-sector leaders and to highlight the incredible work and potential of our interns,” Sprinkle said. “It was especially rewarding to share how FSU ITS is developing talent from within and preparing the next generation of technology and cybersecurity professionals.”

Since its launch more than five years ago, the Intern Cohort program has hired 500 interns across more than 10 ITS departments, giving students real-world experience, professional development and networking opportunities.

Sprinkle said the invitation to speak reflects the recognition ITS has earned for its people-first approach.

“Being invited to participate reflects the growing local and national reputation of FSU ITS as an innovative organization that recognizes people are at the heart of every successful technology solution,” he said. “I was proud to represent the talented team whose work has earned that recognition.”

The conversation didn’t end when the panel did. Sprinkle said several attendees approached him afterward about partnering with the program.

“I’m most excited about the opportunity to expand the impact of our internship program,” Sprinkle said. “Following the panel, I spoke with several business and public-sector leaders interested in exploring how they might connect with our interns and help create an even stronger regional pipeline of technology and cybersecurity talent.”

Through these efforts, ITS continues to support FSU’s commitment to cybersecurity defense, education and workforce development.