We Are IT | Meet Lisa Martin-Brown

Lisa Martin-Brown, a native of Quincy, Florida, moved to Tallahassee for college. After receiving her Associate of Arts degree in General Studies and Associate of Science in Criminal Justice Technology, Lisa’s unexpected journey into technology began. She had to step in as a section supervisor after a local programmer's sudden resignation, leading her to collaborate with the State of FL's Information Services Technology team, which piqued her interest in working with technology and set her on a different career path. Lisa's dedication and newfound passion eventually brought her to Florida State University, where she's currently excelling in her role as the Associate Director of the ITS Service Desk. When she's not at work, you can find Lisa attending classes, and spending time with her family and friends. 

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Quincy, FL. Quincy is the county seat of Gadsden County FL, located approximately 30 miles west of Tallahassee.  
 
Where did you attend school?

I attended and received my AA degree in General Studies and AS degree in Criminal Justice Technology from Tallahassee Community College. 
 
Why did you choose to work in technology?

Technology chose me…while working with the State of FL, the programmer managing a home-grown database locally resigned with little notice. As the section supervisor the vacancy created a void that was critical to the operations. We had to contact Information Services Technology to assist with permissions, database backups, and file storage. Working directly with the IT team piqued my interest and set me on a different career path.  
 
How long have you been at FSU?

I have been with the university for nine years. 
 
What is your role at FSU?

My current role is the Associate Director of the ITS Service Desk. 
 
What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy working with people. There is nothing more rewarding than to know that your customers are satisfied with the level of support provided. I strive to far exceed the user’s experience with every contact. 
 
What is the most rewarding project you have worked on at FSU?

The most rewarding project for me is the Single Point of Support Project, currently underway. Once completed, this project will improve relationships between ITS partners and the university community. Ultimately, improving the customer service experience. 
 
What is your favorite app?

Microsoft Excel is by far my favorite application of all time. You can do so much with excel, my preferred use is for calculating and charting data. 
 
If you were to invent one piece of technology, what would it be?

A time machine to travel back and identify a process or other resources to control greenhouse gas emissions. 
 
What is a fun fact about you?

I enjoy listening to classical music. I played the flute and piccolo in my school’s concert band. 
 
Talk a little bit about your family.

I have two children; Tiffany 34 is a Career Advisor and Brandon 31 is an amateur Photographer; two grandchildren, Jayden 15 and Trew 5 are practicing therapists...their brotherly antics keep me laughing. 
 
What do you do in your free time?

Recharge, spend time with family, friends, and journal.