Karlyn A. Shindel
Karlyn A. Shindel is a highly experienced Field Support Technician based in Boise, Idaho, with over 25 years of dedicated service in K–12 education technology. She currently supports West Ada School District, providing critical IT support across elementary, middle, and high school levels. Karlyn’s expertise spans device repair, server and network administration, and the setup of districtwide standardized testing systems. Her work ensures that classrooms remain connected and students can fully engage with digital learning tools, reflecting her commitment to reliable, practical, and accessible technology support.
Throughout her career, Karlyn has demonstrated exceptional leadership and collaboration, recruiting and mentoring high school students as technology teaching assistants to extend support capacity while fostering valuable technical skills. She is recognized for her strong communication skills, able to explain complex technical issues to nontechnical audiences with clarity and respect. Her technical certifications include Microsoft, C++, Lenovo, HP, and Acer, reflecting her deep proficiency and commitment to continuous professional development in a rapidly evolving field.
Karlyn’s contributions to education technology have been widely recognized, earning her titles such as Classified Employee of the Year for West Ada School District and ClassFit Employee of the Year in 2025. She is an active member of Women in Technology, the Idaho Education Technology Association, and the Northwest Council for Technology, volunteering to support initiatives that empower women in IT. Known for her kindness, professionalism, and dedication to effective communication, Karlyn continues to inspire both colleagues and students while advancing the integration of technology in education.
• Microsoft Certifications
• C++ Certification
• Lenovo Certified Repair Technician
• HP Certified Technician
• Eastern Oregon University – Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc), Business Administration and Finance
• Classified Employee of the Year, West Ada School District (2025)
• ClassFit Employee of the Year (2025)
• Influential Women 2026
• Women in Technology
• Idaho Education Technology Association
• Women in Technology
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to maintaining a good sense of humor, strong interpersonal communication skills, the ability to explain complicated technical situations to nontechnical audiences without talking down to them, and effective prioritization that ensures timely resolutions.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Never be afraid to speak your mind, and always support what you believe in with facts and knowledge.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be strong, speak your mind, have a strong voice, and cultivate effective communication skills.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
IT is largely male-dominated, which can make it difficult to assert ideas and be heard. Determination and clear communication are key to overcoming these obstacles.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I prioritize kindness toward others and being an effective communicator who can convey complex ideas clearly to diverse audiences.