We Are IT | Meet Justin Shafer

Justin Shafer, a native of Danville, Illinois, relocated to Tallahassee during his childhood years. Initially starting as a network technician at Florida State University, Justin's journey led him to assume the role of Assistant Director of Network Infrastructure, overseeing a team responsible for campus-wide network management. His passion for technological evolution and strategic planning culminated in successful projects like the Campus Rewire initiative, reflecting his dedication to advancing infrastructure standards. Outside of work, Justin enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Ashlee, and their three children, indulging in activities like boating and golfing, and exploring new destinations during family travels.

Where are you from?  

I was born in Danville, Illinois, and moved to Tallahassee when I was six months old.  

Where did you attend school? 

I am currently attending Tallahassee Community College, where I am working towards my bachelor’s degree in political science and a minor in public administration. 

Why did you choose to work in technology? 

I like the growth of technology because it’s constantly moving and changing which allows me to continue to progress as well. I don’t like the feeling of being stagnant and technology is anything but stagnant. It’s always evolving.  

How long have you been at FSU?  

16 years. I started working here as a network technician, which is actually the group I oversee now, installing voice, data, and all communications cabling and services at the university in 2008. 

What is your role at FSU?   

My current role is as the Assistant Director of Network Infrastructure. I’ve been in this role for about 2 and half years. In my day-to-day role, I oversee a staff of 14 people. My team is responsible for all network infrastructure on campus, including voice, data, securtiy, and all associated pieces of said infrastructure. 

What do you enjoy most about your job?  

I really enjoy the evolution of this business and the technology associated with it. The planning and strategic thinking behind how we do things and what tomorrow will look like is a fascinating part of my job. And one of the highlights of my job is working with my team. I enjoy the people I work with, directly and indirectly, here at ITS. 

What is the most rewarding project you have worked on at FSU?  

One of the most fulfilling projects I’ve worked on is the Campus Rewire project. This project was created to bring the older buildings on campus up to current industry standards for infrastructure. Speeds are getting faster and old cabling can’t support what new cabling can support, and to utilize the network as it should be, all the pieces must be brought up to the most recent standard. Excitingly, the Campus Rewire project allows me to do some of the things that hadn’t been made a top priority over the last several years. 

What is your favorite app? 

Recently, I’ve been enjoying different AI apps, including ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. Using ChatGPT has helped me with some of my workflow processes and I'm enjoying figuring out what else it can do for me to streamline some things. I like trying different variations of generative AI to see how it can help support what I am doing daily. 

If you were to invent one piece of technology, what would it be?  

Any type of technology that can streamline daily mundane processes would be ideal. Any way to save just a bit more time can help me accomplish even more in a day.  

What is a fun fact about you?   

My wife and I got married on the cliffs in Saint Thomas. The weather was beautiful that day, and we were overlooking the water as we said our vows. It was an unforgettable day.  

Talk a little bit about your family.  

I have been married for 12 years to my wife, Ashlee Shafer, who also works at FSU in the Human Resources department. We have three children, Nolan, Easton and Shea. As a family, one of our favorite activities is boating. Any day we’re not at work, we’re on the boat during the summer and warmer months, which fortunately is most of the year here in Florida. We also love swimming, fishing, really anything that involves the water.  

What do you do in your free time?  

When I’m not working, in school, or spending time with the family, I like golfing. I try to play once a month if I can. My go-to course is the Bainbridge Country Club in Bainbridge, GA. My family and I also enjoy traveling together; we just recently got back from our spring break trip to Disney World which was an absolute blast.