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Higher ed IT isn’t just about technology—it’s about leadership, strategy, and navigating the unique challenges of institutional culture. And we’ve seen it all. Two retired Canadian Higher Ed CIOs—and CUCCIO CIO of the Year winners—Bo Wandschneider and Dana Sanderson—bring decades of experience tackling technology, governance, and innovation in Canadian universities. In Bytes of Experience: CIOs Unplugged, they cut through the noise to discuss real challenges, real solutions, and the realities of IT leadership. Expect deep insights, candid discussions, and plenty of humor—because IT isn’t always glamorous, but it’s always interesting. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the field, join them for an unfiltered look at the digital evolution of higher ed IT.
Higher ed IT isn’t just about technology—it’s about leadership, strategy, and navigating the unique challenges of institutional culture. And we’ve seen it all. Two retired Canadian Higher Ed CIOs—and CUCCIO CIO of the Year winners—Bo Wandschneider and Dana Sanderson—bring decades of experience tackling technology, governance, and innovation in Canadian universities. In Bytes of Experience: CIOs Unplugged, they cut through the noise to discuss real challenges, real solutions, and the realities of IT leadership. Expect deep insights, candid discussions, and plenty of humor—because IT isn’t always glamorous, but it’s always interesting. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the field, join them for an unfiltered look at the digital evolution of higher ed IT.
Episodes

Oct 18, 2026
S02-E02-Research-IT
Oct 18, 2026
Oct 18, 2026
39 min
In this episode, Bo and Dana talk with Jill Kowalchuk, Director of Research Computing and Investment Office, University of Calgary, about the evolving intersection of technology, research, and people. Jill shares insights from her work with WestGrid, Compute Canada, CanSOC, and CIRA, exploring how collaboration and leadership shape national research infrastructure. She discusses the challenges of bridging IT and research, scaling operations, managing risk, and balancing institutional priorities — from cybersecurity frameworks like NIST 800‑171 to the realities of funding and resource constraints. It’s a candid look at how Canadian universities are redefining research support, security, and trust across campus.
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Oct 18, 2026
39 min

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