Kent State University announced that Josh Talbott will transition to an information technology position in its School of Communication Studies and School of Visual Communication Design.
Talbott first discovered his passion for technology in high school at Kent Roosevelt where he participated in an electronics vocational program. When he began his undergraduate work at Kent State University, Talbott became involved in TeleProductions, Kent State’s professional video production center. He worked there throughout his undergraduate career where he received a reputation for being able to do what full-time employees were doing.
Talbott later transitioned into a position in the university’s audio-visual services where he was able to help with the installation of new technology across campus. After the extensive renovation of the School of Journalism and Mass Communication’s Franklin Hall in 2007, Talbott was hired as the school’s senior media specialist to aid students and staff in using the building’s new technology. During his first few years with the school, Talbott continued his education, earning a master’s degree in technology from Kent State.
Talbott is currently serving as JMC’s senior media specialist. His new role as the lead IT user and support analyst in COMM and VCD will allow him to better share his knowledge of computer systems and code. “I’m really excited about the new transition,” Talbott said. “I’ll miss what I’m able to do in JMC, but I’m becoming part of a bigger organization of IT professionals on campus.”
He is most looking forward to helping with special projects in his new role, especially those included in student coursework.
“I love doing creative things with computer systems,” Talbott said. “I can’t necessarily invent something with electronics, but I can invent code. I want to help improve how the schools deliver their online classes and how students submit homework online.”
"We are extremely excited to have Josh handling our IT needs," said COMM Director Paul Haridakis, Ph.D. "Josh brings overwhelming depth and experience to us. As a large information and communication school with excessive technological needs, we will draw on all of Josh's IT, audio-visual and media knowledge. I think working with VCD and Communication Studies will offer Josh new and exciting challenges, and it will permit us to continue to grow as we draw on his comprehensive knowledge. I cannot wait to start working with him on a daily basis and to have the opportunity to learn from him."
