We Are IT | Meet Jian Wu
Born and raised in Mainland China, Jian Wu moved to the United States to pursue higher education, earning her master’s degree in computer science from San Diego State University. She then worked as a software engineer in IT companies both in California and Florida before joining Florida State University in 2009 and now serves as the Assistant Director of Technology Services for the College of Medicine, where she oversees the college’s SharePoint websites, public websites, and leads the developer/DBA team. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, traveling and photography, and spending time with her family.
Where are you from?
I was born in Mainland China and moved to the United States after college.
Where did you attend school?
I earned my bachelor’s degree in China. Then, I earned my master’s degree in computer science from San Diego State University in San Diego, California.
Why did you choose to work in technology?
My bachelor’s degree was in electrical engineering, but I always had an interest in computers. So, before I pursued my master’s degree, I took a few bachelor-level classes to ensure I enjoyed the content, which I did. This confirmed my decision to pursue computer science.
How long have you been at FSU?
16 years. I started working at FSU in 2009.
What is your role at FSU?
I am an Assistant Director of Technology Services for the College of Medicine. I oversee our SharePoint websites, public websites and manage the College of Medicine’s developer/DBA team.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I really enjoy working with my team. We collaborate well and I learn from them every day. On the technical side, I love getting into the data analysis part of my job.
What is the most rewarding project you have worked on at FSU?
One of the most rewarding projects I’ve worked on at FSU has been developing internal grading and reporting systems for the College of Medicine. When I first joined, my role involved gathering data and building reports to support LCME accreditation. From there, I helped create a system to collect and organize student evaluation and encounter data, which later evolved into the College’s internal grading platform.
I’m proud that this system laid the foundation for the current grading system used today, which has since been enhanced and integrated with FSU’s ITS to streamline data entry.
What is your favorite app?
Kindle. I like reading and the app makes it extremely easy for me to read.
If you were to invent one piece of technology, what would it be?
I would design an AI tool that I could use to help with data analysis.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have a three-year-old cat named Storm.
Talk a little bit about your family.
My husband, Hengli Tang, is a professor at FSU and we have two amazing children, Nathan and Ashley.
What do you do in your free time?
I love hiking, traveling, and photography. I really enjoy any kind of outdoor activity.
