Studio Enterprise

Media / Entertainment Industry Education, Los Angeles, CA

Meet The Team – Kelly Kantola, Chief Information Officer of Studio Enterprise

Kelly Kantola, Chief Information Officer (CIO) - Studio Enterprise

About Kelly Kantola

Kelly Kantola is the forward-thinking Chief Information Officer (CIO) of Studio Enterprise, where he has been leading the company’s technology strategy since February 2019. With over two decades of experience in IT leadership, Kelly has played a crucial role in transforming Studio Enterprise’s technological infrastructure, driving operational efficiency, and implementing cloud-first strategies. His extensive expertise in cybersecurity, cloud technologies, and digital transformation ensures that Studio Enterprise remains at the cutting edge of education technology services.

Professional Journey

As Studio Enterprise’s CIO, Kelly is responsible for managing all technology-related functions, including Helpdesk, Application, Desktop, Infrastructure, and Network Support, as well as Cybersecurity and IT procurement management. His leadership focuses on providing exceptional customer service, ensuring security across all operations, and optimizing technology investments to drive growth. Kelly has built a high-performing IT department of 50 staff members, fostering a customer-centric and agile culture.

Under his leadership, Studio Enterprise has achieved significant milestones, including rescuing a physical data center, reducing monthly expenses by 60%, and executing virtual migrations. Kelly was instrumental in overseeing the company’s shift to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring seamless digital operations for 15,000 students and 4,000 staff members.

Key Achievements

  • Reduced monthly technology expenses by 60% by negotiating software and hardware contracts and optimizing technology procurement.
  • Managed the successful transition to a cloud-first infrastructure, replacing traditional data centers while supporting 20 locations, 15,000 students, and 4,000 staff members.
  • Led the implementation of SD-WAN and Azure Active Directory across the organization, modernizing Studio Enterprise’s network and enhancing security.
  • Played a pivotal role in the pandemic response, facilitating the shift to remote learning and maintaining educational continuity through innovative technology solutions.
  • Rescued a physical data center, executing a graceful shutdown and transition without additional expenses.

Educational Background

Kelly holds an MBA from the University of Phoenix and a Master of Project Management (MPM) from Keller Graduate School of Management. His academic foundation and extensive hands-on experience equip him with the strategic insight needed to drive complex technology transformations.

Leadership Philosophy and Vision

Kelly’s leadership philosophy revolves around the belief that technology should be a catalyst for organizational growth and innovation. He is committed to creating an environment where his team is empowered to take ownership and collaborate, driving success through continuous improvement. His strategic vision for Studio Enterprise is to position the company as a leading EdTech managed services provider (MSP), delivering secure, scalable, and innovative technology solutions that enhance the learning experience and drive institutional success.

Key Pillars of His Vision:

  • Empowering Educational Institutions: Kelly leverages cloud-based solutions, AI, and data analytics to equip educational institutions with the tools they need to innovate and thrive.
  • Operational Efficiency: By optimizing IT operations through cloud strategies, Kelly reduces overhead costs and enhances service delivery, allowing institutions to focus on their core mission.
  • Enhancing the Student Experience: Kelly’s focus on seamless, user-friendly digital environments ensures that technology supports personalized learning experiences and student success.
  • Security & Compliance: He leads with a focus on cybersecurity and compliance, ensuring all solutions meet the highest data protection standards.

Personal Insights

Outside of work, Kelly enjoys traveling, with the goal of visiting all 50 states—he and his wife, Diana, have already visited 46. He is passionate about smart home technology and enjoys weightlifting and flying drones. Kelly grew up in Sacramento, CA, with a large extended family, and he and Diana, married for 15 years, live in Florida with their two cats.

For more information about Kelly Kantola and his work at Studio Enterprise, please visit LinkedIn.