For Episode 6, Chris Hawkins visits Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation in Fortville, Indiana, to talk with Director of Technology Seth Hamilton about mentorship, meaningful partnerships, and the long-term planning behind a sustainable student device program.
Seth reflects on the influence of his longtime mentor, Mike Kneebone, and the importance of helping employees feel supported.
“Good employees are going to work well when they feel supported.”
He also discusses the difference between vendors and true partners—those who invest in relationships, help solve problems, and provide value beyond a purchase.
When Seth joined Mt. Vernon, one of his first priorities was replacing the district’s reactive Chromebook purchasing model with a sustainable refresh cycle. Secured Tech worked with him to develop a long-term rolling plan that the district continues to use and adjust today.
That strategy became part of a broader transformation that helped Mt. Vernon stabilize its technology budget, reduce device breakage, and save $750,000 over four years. Read the full Mt. Vernon case study to see the decisions and results behind the district’s approach.
“You sat down with me and helped develop a long-term plan. In a new position, when I was kind of drowning a little bit, that lifeline was phenomenal.”
The episode wraps up where every Three Pointers conversation does—behind the arc. This time, Secured Tech CEO Nate Holmes joins Chris on the court as he attempts to keep his perfect streak alive. Watch to the end to see what happens.
Interested in participating in a future episode? We’d love to connect with school IT leaders across Indiana and beyond to share their stories and perspectives. Contact us to learn more.
