BISMARCK – John Rodenbiker, a native of Rock Lake, has joined North Dakota Information Technology (NDIT) as director of Cyber Operations. Rodenbiker brings more than two decades of experience in information security and IT leadership.

Rodenbiker’s fascination with technology began in childhood, inspired by vintage computer games, classic tech thrillers like WarGames and Sneakers, and the problem-solving challenges of the dial-up era. Those early experiences sparked a lifelong curiosity that led him to build systems from the ground up, anticipate emerging threats, and approach cybersecurity as both a technical and human challenge.

Rodenbiker began his career modernizing IT infrastructure for rural organizations, wiring campuses, building networks and supporting systems from the ground up. He later served as IT administrator for former U.S. Sen. Byron Dorgan in Washington, D.C., gaining firsthand experience supporting mission-critical government operations.

Rodenbiker has since led cybersecurity initiatives across multiple industries, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, where he managed information security for more than 350,000 members; Doosan Bobcat, overseeing North American cybersecurity operations; and Eide Bailly, where he helped build and mature enterprise cybersecurity programs to world-class standards.

“Cybersecurity is no longer just a technology issue; it’s a people issue,” Rodenbiker said. “Our mission is to protect sensitive data and ensure every North Dakotan can trust the systems they rely on. That means helping people do their jobs securely while continuing to strengthen the foundation behind the scenes.”

“John brings the right mix of technical depth, strategic thinking, and people-first leadership that modern cybersecurity demands,” said Christopher Gergen, NDIT’s Chief Information Security Officer. “He understands that strong security programs are built on trust, collaboration, and shared responsibility. I’m confident he will further strengthen our ability to protect state systems and the data entrusted to us by North Dakotans.”

Rodenbiker holds a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics with a minor in computer science from Minot State University and a Master’s in business administration from North Dakota State University. Rodenbiker lives in Fargo with his wife of nearly 25 years and their two children.