Carolyn Furrow
Carolyn Furrow started at Virginia Tech in 1978 as a clerk in entomology, and retired in 2023 as the office technology coordinator for the College of Science. Her career trajectory moved parallel with changes in technology at Virginia Tech.
An early start at Virginia Tech
Christiansburg High School had a program where students in the business program could work half at day at Virginia Tech. This is how Carolyn got started.
From the mimeograph to the mainframe
One of the benefits of computers is the lack of ink on the ceiling.
New technology
Imagine using a script and then having to walk to Burruss just to print documents.
Technology changes how the workplace operates
As more staff had access to computers at Virginia Tech, their roles often changed to include new and varied tasks.
Moving into IT support
As Virginia Tech changed and grew, so did Carolyn's responsibilities.
Learning Computing Systems
Carolyn took advantage of every opportunity to learn about computers and new technology.
Preparing for Y2K
How did Virginia Tech prepare for the turn of the century on Dec. 31, 1999, or "Y2K"?
The first IT committees at Virginia Tech
Carolyn talks about the early committees, the first acceptable use policy, and more actions of the early committees.
Tehchology changes over the years
Carolyn shares the changes she has seen in technology during her career at Virginia Tech.
Changes in the workplace
Carolyn explains how changes in technology have lead to more specialized roles and a decline in work "silos." Gone are the days when one person can do everything.