Professional Summary
Quietly dedicated IT Support Specialist and System Administrator fueled by a lifelong passion for computers and technology. With expertise in network design, troubleshooting, and managing Google Workspace and VMware environments, I consistently enhance system efficiency and security. Certified in CCNA and Azure Fundamentals, I excel in cybersecurity and server management, approaching complex technical challenges with analytical precision and independent problem-solving to deliver impactful solutions that support organizational success.
Work Experience
System Administrator | Help Desk
Aug 2022 - PresentDCT Chambers Trucking Ltd
Vernon, Canada
- System Administration & Optimization: Administer Google Workspace and Chromebook environments, configuring settings to enhance user productivity, streamline workflows, and ensure seamless system integration for staff across the organization.
- Infrastructure Management: Oversee critical IT infrastructure by managing Windows Server Active Directory, VMware ESXi virtualization, Cisco Meraki, and Ubiquiti networking equipment, maintaining robust security protocols and ensuring uninterrupted network operations to support business continuity.
- Hardware & Software Expertise: Build, diagnose, and repair computer hardware and software systems with precision, leveraging a deep passion for technology to troubleshoot complex issues, restore system functionality, and minimize downtime for end-users.
- IT Deployment & Procurement: Lead the procurement, setup, and deployment of diverse IT hardware, including phones, laptops, and desktops, ensuring all devices are tailored to user needs and operational requirements, enhancing overall efficiency.
- Mobile & Communication Systems: Configure and manage over 100 Apple iOS and Android cell phones, integrating PBX systems with platforms such as Twilio, Google Voice, Dialpad, and RingCentral to facilitate reliable and scalable communication solutions for the organization.
- Cybersecurity & Training: Implement cutting-edge cybersecurity tools and conduct security awareness training programs for staff, proactively safeguarding organizational assets against threats and fostering a culture of digital vigilance.
- Problem-Solving & Innovation: Consistently identify and resolve technical challenges under tight deadlines, adapting to evolving IT needs by researching and implementing innovative solutions that improve system performance and user experience.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams and end-users to provide exceptional help desk support, translating technical issues into actionable solutions and maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction through clear communication and timely resolution.
Information Technology Support Specialist
May 2020 - May 2022Kirby Computers
Vernon, Canada
- Founded and operated Kirby Computers, a small business aimed at providing accessible and personalized technical support to elderly clients and community members in Vernon, Canada, with a focus on bridging the digital divide.
- Delivered hands-on help desk services, troubleshooting hardware and software issues, including computer setup, internet connectivity, and basic software training, ensuring clients could use technology confidently.
- Developed strong communication skills by explaining complex technical concepts in simple, user-friendly terms, tailoring support to meet the unique needs of each client, particularly those with limited tech experience.
- Cultivated problem-solving and adaptability by addressing a wide range of unexpected technical challenges, often under constrained resources, which honed my ability to think critically and act independently.
- Built trust and rapport with clients through patience and empathy, creating lasting relationships that demonstrated the value of personalized technical support.
Projects
Home Lab Virtualization Server
Deployed and configured a Proxmox Virtual Environment on a Lenovo ThinkServer P700 to manage virtual machines and containers.
Served as a platform to test enterprise-grade IT solutions, explore advanced virtualization workflows, and optimize hardware resource allocation.
Enterprise Network Emulation
Designed and maintained advanced network simulations using Cisco CML (Modeling Labs) and EVE-NG.
Built and troubleshot complex multi-vendor network topologies to better understand routing (BGP, OSPF), VLANs, and advanced configurations in an isolated, risk-free environment.
Cloud & On-Prem Kubernetes Deployments
Configured and deployed a Kubernetes cluster on AWS to test containerization, scalable application delivery, and load balancing.
Built and managed a bare-metal Kubernetes cluster on a home server for hands-on experience with raw configuration, cluster management, and networking.
Custom VoIP Phone System
Developed and implemented cost-effective VoIP systems using Twilio and VoIP.ms to replace expensive commercial solutions.
Engineered and configured routing, call handling, and IP phone setup for enterprise-grade performance at a fraction of the cost.
IT Ticketing System Development
Built a custom ticketing system from scratch to streamline work-related IT requests and issue management.
Designed features such as ticket tracking, user authentication, and prioritization to enhance team productivity and incident resolution time.
Backup & Disaster Recovery
Implemented a comprehensive backup solution for server infrastructure and home PCs using Synology NAS with Active Backup for Business.
Ensured consistent data protection and rapid disaster recovery with automated, scheduled versioned backups.
Secure Remote Access VPN
Configured client-to-site VPNs for secure, remote access to network resources using Cisco Meraki hardware and UniFi.
Designed encrypted VPN tunnels to ensure data integrity and security for both home and work environments.
Advanced IT Documentation Portal
Developed internal documentation websites that centralize IT guides, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and knowledge-sharing.
Improved operational efficiency and reduced error rates by providing an accessible resource for troubleshooting and daily IT tasks.
Education
Diploma in Network Engineering and Telecommunications
Sep 2017 - May 2022Okanagan College, Vernon, Canada
Earned a focused diploma in network engineering and telecommunications, gaining proficiency in designing, implementing, and troubleshooting sophisticated network systems through hands-on training and theoretical study in areas such as routing, switching, security protocols, and telecommunication technologies.
Business Administration Studies
Sep 2009 - Dec 2011Okanagan College, Vernon, Canada
Studied Business Administration, gaining valuable knowledge in accounting, management, finance, economics, and business law, providing a solid foundation in organizational operations and strategic decision-making that complements my technical expertise.
Certifications
Technical Skills
Networking & Infrastructure
Cybersecurity & Information Security
Cloud Computing & Data Management
Support & Management
Communication Systems
Network Equipment
Get In Touch
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