Natalia Scheidegger is the CEO of 3rdmill, an Australian-based managed services provider (MSP) that delivers comprehensive IT solutions to small and medium-sized businesses. 3rdmill specializes in infrastructure, networking, cybersecurity, web hosting, and development, helping clients navigate complex technology challenges with tailored, strategic solutions.

Scheidegger‘s journey into the IT world was unconventional. Coming from a nontechnical background and a career in corporate strategy, she stepped into the leadership role at 3rdmill after the sudden passing of her father, the company’s founder. Despite her strategic strengths, she faced a steep learning curve in managing technical operations, particularly in optimizing the company’s service desk.

One of the first challenges she brought to her IT Nation Evolve™ group was improving the service desk. Surrounded by experienced technical leaders, Scheidegger was able to tap into a deep well of knowledge and best practices. “Being part of IT Nation IT Nation Evolve™ gave me access to a brain trust of technical leaders. I no longer had to guess my way through problems—I had proven strategies at my fingertips.”

This peer-driven support helped her implement changes that significantly improved service desk efficiency—progress that would have taken years to achieve on her own. “The peer group model is like having a personal board of directors. They challenge you, support you, and hold you accountable in ways that truly elevate your leadership.”

Scheidegger’s experience with IT Nation IT Nation Evolve™ illustrates the transformative power of peer collaboration. For MSP leaders—especially those without a technical background—Evolve offers a fast track to operational excellence, strategic clarity, and sustainable growth.

“If I had joined IT Nation Evolve™ earlier, I can only imagine how much further along my business would be. It’s the smartest investment I’ve made as a business owner,” Scheidegger said. “Just jump in. It will be the best thing that you do for your business.” 

Key Takeaways

• Accelerated Learning Curve: Coming from a nontechnical background, Natalia faced a steep learning curve when she took over 3rdmill. By joining IT Nation Evolve, she bypassed years of trial-and-error by learning directly from experienced MSP leaders. The peer group environment provided her with immediate access to proven strategies and operational insights, allowing her to quickly resolve long-standing service desk inefficiencies and improve team performance.
• Peer Accountability and Strategic Support: One of the most impactful aspects of Evolve for Natalia was the “board of directors” model. This structure gave her a trusted circle of peers who not only offered advice but also held her accountable to her goals. These regular check-ins and collaborative problem-solving sessions helped her stay focused on strategic priorities while navigating the day-to-day demands of running an MSP.
• Faster, More Sustainable Business Growth: Despite having led 3rdmill for seven years, Natalia realized how much more her business could have grown had she joined Evolve earlier. The program’s structured approach to leadership development, operational excellence, and business planning gave her the tools to scale more effectively. Within just three quarters, she saw measurable improvements in efficiency and leadership confidence—results that would have taken years to achieve on her own.
• Community and Shared Journey: IT Nation Evolve isn’t just about business—it’s about building a community. Natalia found immense value in being part of a group of MSP leaders who were on similar journeys. This sense of camaraderie and shared experience provided emotional support, inspiration, and motivation. The group celebrated wins together and helped each other through challenges, creating a powerful network of mutual growth.