Blueprint for a Tech Department: From Zero to Essential

In this episode of Learning Through Technology, we sit down with Troy Sladen, Director of IT at Morongo Unified School District, and a man with deep roots in the very community he serves. From racing two-stroke motorcycles to racing against the clock during COVID, Troy’s journey is anything but typical. He shares how he went from finance major to consultant, entrepreneur, and finally tech director—navigating the evolving landscape of school technology while never losing sight of what matters most: community impact and student success.

Troy offers a rare inside look at what it means to be "the guy"—the one fixing the printer, planning five-year forecasts, and answering support calls while installing infrastructure. He also unpacks how he scaled the department strategically, managed burnout, worked cross-functionally with curriculum leaders, and turned special education tech use into one of his most profound sources of inspiration.

Key Moments

06:40 Tech Evolution: Data Storage Changes

10:17 Doctor's Warning Sparks Career Shift

11:11 Reevaluating Career Benefits

17:05 Technology Pivot During COVID

17:59 Expansion of Tech Maintenance Team

21:13 "Community-Driven Financial Stewardship"

25:12 Integrating Tech in Education

28:11 Building for Growth, Not Minimums

33:40 "Tech Transformation in Special Ed"

35:50 Project-Based Learning Engages Students

38:03 Outdated Tech Sparks New Growth

43:04 "Great Teachers Adapt and Innovate"

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

You’ll appreciate this episode if you’ve ever built something from nothing—or wanted to. Troy Sladen brings a pragmatic, community-first mindset to the conversation, paired with clear lessons in leadership, resourcefulness, and perseverance. Whether you're a veteran tech director, an aspiring leader in edtech, or just someone who wants to understand the very human side of technology in schools, this episode delivers depth, authenticity, and actionable insight. Plus, there’s a great story about a special education classroom that might just stick with you for good.

Connect with Guest – Troy Slayden

Website: https://www.morongousd.com/page/meet-our-team

Connect with Hosts – Alex Inman & Bob Cireddu

LinkedIn – Alex Inman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexinman/
LinkedIn – Bob Cireddu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-cireddu

Subscribe to Learning Through Technology for more conversations with the innovators shaping K-12 education.